BBC consumer expert warns 'do not buy' as he says he's 'really worried' ahead of winter

BBC consumer expert warns 'do not buy' as he says he's 'really worried' ahead of winter The expert also urged people to make an important check and never to take a risk A consumer expert has said portable heaters can be a simple, low-cost way to take the "edge off" during winter - and may help avoid the need to turn on the heating. But the expert warned people to stay alert to key risks they may overlook just to keep warm. Speaking on BBC Morning Live, consumer journalist Harry Kind highlighted issues with the current cost of living. Ofgem confirmed that from October 1 to December 31 2026, the energy price cap will be £1,723 a year - a 4% rise on the previous period - based on average unit rates and standing charges for Direct Debit customers in England, Scotland and Wales. As a result, energy prices for millions have risen to their highest level in three years, driven by higher wholesale gas prices due to the war in Iran. During the BBC show this week, the consumer expert shared that this means the price cap has "gone up by £60 on average. So if you’re on that price cap, you will be paying more." However, he admitted that this means for many, "it’s going to be a cold winter." In fact, he said that he is concerned, explaining: "A lot of people are saying if prices rise again, they might not turn on the heating or hot water altogether. And that is really worrying." 'I don't want people doing this' The expert said portable heaters can be "great" and cheap to run, but warned many households could be taking risks without realising it, often overlooking seemingly 'innocent' issues just to stay warm. Kind stressed to viewers: "Safety is so important. What I don’t want is people going up to the loft, because it’s getting cold, and they find a fan heater that they've had since the 70s. "They try to plug it in, and because these [devices] pull a lot of power, it means that they can be riskier. So you want to be making sure that the plug isn’t wonky and there’s no melting or burnt bits on there." People should also check for any damaged or frayed cables, taped repairs, cracks in the plug or other signs of overheating before using it. 'Do not buy' it from here Kind advises: "If it’s generally a bit old, I would say replace it. And if you’re going to replace your fan heater or your oil radiator, buy it from a reputable retailer. "Do not get it from a no-name online brand. Because this [portable heaters] is something that just has a certain amount of risk associated with it. Follow that kind of safety." Check GOV.UK In more advice on buying heating devices for the home, the BBC further urged people to stick to brands they recognise. It states that "products sold by unknown third-party sellers online may not have passed the same safety checks as those sold by traditional retailers." Because of this, a good thing to do before you buy one is to check GOV UK to see whether your heater has ever been recalled. The BBC stresses: "When using your heater, make sure to plug it directly into a wall socket rather than an extension lead. Keep it at least one metre away from curtains, furniture and anything else that could catch fire."