Experts Warn Against Deadly DIY AC Hacks Using Frozen Towels and Fans During Heatwaves

UK Heatwave Alert: Avoid Deadly DIY Cooling Hacks, Experts Warn

Britain is sweltering under a record-breaking heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 36°C. Desperate for relief, many are turning to TikTok’s viral “DIY air conditioning” hacks. However, experts from Electrical Safety First warn that some of these tricks could pose deadly risks.

Dangerous Hacks to Avoid

1. Frozen Water Bottles on Fans
A popular TikTok trend involves strapping frozen water bottles to fans. While the melted ice creates a brief cool breeze, condensation can drip into the fan’s motor or nearby sockets, risking electric shocks. Luke Osborne, a technical director at Electrical Safety First, calls this “mindless” and ineffective, as it adds unsafe weight and fails to cool entire rooms.

[Image suggestion: A fan with frozen bottles attached, with caption: “This viral hack risks water damage and electrocution.”]

2. Frozen Towels Over Fans
Draping chilled towels over fans similarly endangers users. As the towels thaw, moisture seeps into the device. Osborne notes this offers minimal cooling and heightens electrical hazards.

3. Bowls of Ice in Front of Fans
Placing ice bowls near fans is less risky but still ineffective. While the ice isn’t directly touching electronics, spills could still cause accidents.

[Image suggestion: Melted ice pooling near a fan, with caption: “Even ‘safer’ ice hacks offer little relief.”]

Why Water and Electricity Don’t Mix

Osborne stresses that melting ice inevitably produces water, which can damage fans and create lethal shock risks. “Fans aren’t waterproof—adding moisture is a recipe for disaster,” he warns.

Safe Cooling Tips

Instead of risky DIY projects, experts recommend:

1. Cross-Ventilation: Open windows on opposite sides of your home to create airflow.
2. Close Curtains/Blinds: Block sunlight during peak heat to keep rooms cooler.
3. Cool Nights: Open windows overnight to let in fresh air, then close them by morning.

[Image suggestion: Closed blinds with a sunny window, captioned: “Blocking sunlight reduces indoor heat.”]

What’s Causing the Heatwave?

The UK sits on the edge of a European “heat dome,” pulling in hot air from southern Europe. Climate change is intensifying such extremes, making heatwaves more frequent.

Stay safe by prioritizing proven methods over viral trends. As Osborne advises, “A fan alone won’t solve the heat, but smart habits can help.”

[Image suggestion: A family using fans safely in a shaded room, captioned: “Smart cooling beats dangerous DIY hacks.”]

Final Word: Skip the TikTok tricks—opt for ventilation, shade, and caution to beat the heat safely.