Don’t tumble into dodgy dryers trap

CUSTOMER discontent is rumbling on over certain Hotpoint, Creda and Indesit tumble dryers.

I have advised anyone with one of these fire hazards in their home not to use it.

But those brands’ parent company Whirlpool has always maintained the affected models are safe – as long as they are not left unattended when you are using them.

I’m pleased to say sense has prevailed and Whirlpool are now advising: “Switch the machines off and do not use them until they have been repaired/modified.”

This message has come far too late for some. For others still waiting for a repair/modification it does nothing to ease the worry.

If you still have one, here’s what you need to know.

It is vitally important that you follow Whirlpool’s instructions and switch the dryer off and stop using it. If you don’t and your machine catches fire, your house insurer will almost certainly refuse to pay out.

Whirlpool are being slow with repairs but I’ve heard consumers have got their repair/modification quickly after shouting louder and turning to social media.

Even though this is a problem for the manufacturer, your contract is with the retailer who sold the machine to you. This means they have an obligation to deal with the issue.

The law, Sale of Goods Act 1979 for purchases before October 1, 2015, and the Consumer Rights Act 2015 for purchases thereafter, says faulty goods must be rectified “within a reasonable amount of time” failing which they should be replaced.

If you purchased your machine using your credit card, go to your provider and say you want to make a section 75 claim. This is a claim under the Consumer Credit Act that you can make when you buy goods with the card (for more than £100) and the trader refuses or fails to act on a problem.

Whirlpool need to stop thinking about their profits and start putting safety first. These dodgy dyers should now be subject to a product recall and consumers reimbursed or provided with r eplacement machines immediately.