Winter is closing in with its accompanying comforts and harsh realities, from cosy nights next to the fireplace to disruptive and potentially dangerous frosty weather conditions. With a range of recommended shortcuts and DIY hacks flooding Tiktok to combat winter, it is crucial to stay informed about the potential dangers certain tricks hold, as they can lead to fines or cause injury or damage to your home.

Halton Stairlifts building expert, George Myers helps steer you clear of pitfalls and keep you safe in the midst of the winter season. We researched over 100 winter hacks via TikTok to see which had the most likes and engagement, breaking it down to the top dangerous 8.

Risky Home Hacks

1. The Salt Solution: There’s a viral Tik Tok video advocating using table salt to remove snow from driveways, claiming it’s cheaper than road salt. But what it fails to mention is, excessive salt runoff is harmful to the environment and can corrode concrete or asphalt driveways. “Beyond the nuisance of a damaged driveway, you could potentially face fines of up to £1000 for pollution associated with salt runoff,” warns building expert, George Myers.
2. Spraying Cleaning Products into Radiators: Spraying products like Fabulosa into radiators is hazardous as these products are flammable and can cause explosions or serious injuries.
3. DIY Radiator Covers: While stylish, homemade radiator covers made of wooden materials can decrease the efficiency of radiators and disrupt thermostatic radiator valves.
4. Heating Terracotta Pots: Using lit candles under an inverted terracotta pot is risky as the pot can explode or shatter, leading to burns or fire hazards.
5. Heating a Building Brick in the Oven: Warming a brick in an oven and then using it to heat a space poses a high risk of the brick exploding or catching fire.
6. Using BBQs and Camping Stoves Indoors: Utilising outdoor cooking equipment indoors for heating can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning and increased fire risk.
7. Fabric Softener Soaked Sponges on Radiators: Placing sponges soaked in water and fabric softener under radiators can lead to dampness and mould.
8. Inappropriate Insulation: One of the surprising ‘home hacks’ gaining traction involves people stuffing aluminium foil behind radiators to purportedly improve insulation. Building consultant George Myers highlights the risk saying, “This well-intended effort could potentially void any home insurance policies, as any damage or fire caused by this DIY hack wouldn’t be covered.”

Best Practices for Winter Home Care

To successfully combat the winter chill, instead of relying on risky hacks, it’s recommended to opt for time-tested, expert-approved methods.

• Seal gaps: Sealing gaps around windows and doors with draught excluder or weather stripping can prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping, promoting energy efficiency and warmth.
• Heating systems: Ensuring your heating system is in a good state is essential before winter hits. Certified engineers are preferable to inspect and service your heating systems to avoid risk of malfunction, fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Insulation: Consult with a home improvement professional about the best way to insulate your home. This may involve modern, fire-safe materials that can be safely installed behind walls or under floors.
• Water Pipes: To prevent water pipes from freezing and bursting, wrap them in foam insulation.

As stay-at-home safety becomes extremely important during the winter months, homeowner vigilance is essential. Ill-advised ‘home hacks’ might promise a quick fix or cut costs, but they can end in disaster—ranging from injuries, to fires, to substantial fines and invalidated insurance.

For comfort and safety this winter, heed the advice of the professionals and turn a blind eye to risky Tik Tok trends.

Is a viral Tik Tok video worth the potential risk to your home, health, and wallet? Probably not.

Credit: https://www.haltonstairliftsltd.co.uk