London Fire Brigade’s Fire Investigation Team is alerting the public to a safety modification programme currently taking place involving eight brands of heat pump tumble driers (Haier, Hoover, Candy, Caple, Baumatic, Iberna, Lamona and Montpellier).
Several incidents have highlighted it is possible for an internal short circuit to occur within the tumble dryer during use, presenting the risk of fire. In light of this, the Office for Product and Safety Standards (OPSS) and the manufacturers have issued clear guidance to stop using these products immediately and contact the manufacturer to arrange for the modification to take place. If the plug is accessible, switch it off and unplug the appliance.
The modification programme initially began following reports of incidents and has already reached around 17,000 of more than 100,000 affected units. However, the original repair did not fully eliminate the fire risk, and the programme was temporarily paused.
The issue has now been resolved, and the updated modification programme officially recommenced in early September 2025.
The Brigade is stressing that all owners should follow the latest safety advice, even if their appliance was previously modified under the earlier programme.