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UK Households Warned over 'Energy-Saving' Gadgets that Could Explode and Start Fires
Electrical Safety First said 13 tested devices failed safety checks and may have exposed UK shoppers to fire and electric-shock risks.
- On Thursday, Electrical Safety First warned that 13 'energy-saving' plugs purchased from AliExpress, Amazon Marketplace, and TikTok Shop failed safety tests, with two devices exploding during laboratory trials.
- The warning arrives as the UK energy price cap rises by 4 per cent today, pushing household bills to a three-year high, creating financial pressures unscrupulous sellers exploit with bogus products.
- Testing revealed that all 13 devices lacked energy-saving components and contained only fake parts; two exploded during short-circuit tests, sending hot metal fragments into the air, while plug pins failed strength requirements.
- AliExpress, Amazon Marketplace, and TikTok Shop confirmed removal of identified listings following ESF's findings, with AliExpress contacting affected customers to initiate a recall through established channels.
- Because UK law does not hold online marketplaces liable for third-party products, ESF is demanding "bold and robust, legally enforceable measures" to ensure platform accountability and prevent dangerous items from remaining widely available.
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Total News Sources11
Leaning Left3Leaning Right1Center6Last UpdatedBias Distribution60% Center
Bias Distribution
- 60% of the sources are Center
60% Center
L 30%
C 60%
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