Sparky

Dishwashers

Dishwashers are a handy appliance to have, but like any electrical appliance, there’s always a potential fire risk in using them.

Dishwasher Safety

Safety First

  • When buying a new dishwasher, always buy from a reputable dealer, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Always register a new dishwasher with the manufacturer. That way you can be contacted easily if a safety recall is required. While the chances of a faulty product causing serious damage are small, the risk is still there and returning a faulty product or ordering its repair is very easy to do. To register all your appliances, regardless of age, visit Register My Appliance.
  • Use the elctrical safety first websites free online checker to see if you have any recalled electrical items.
  • Check that your dishwasher has a UK plug, but if it doesn’t, do not use a UK travel adaptor, but rather have the retailer fit the dishwasher with a UK plug.
  • Do regular checks of the plug and socket for burn marks, sounds of ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling), fuses blowing, circuit-breakers tripping or if it feels too hot to touch.
  • Ensure your home is fully protected by an RCD or residual current device, which can be found in your fuse box (also known as a consumer unit).  An RCD is a life-saving device that protects against dangerous electric shock and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
  • If you don’t have RCD protection on your sockets, consider using an RCD plug, which can prevent serious appliance faults that pose threats to you and your property.
  • Sometimes, appliance fires are caused by something beyond your control. Smoke alarms are essential in keeping you safe in the event of a fire. There should be a minimum of one smoke alarm per floor and fit enough alarms to cover all areas where a fire could start, and make sure they are tested regularly.
  • If a fire does start, don’t try to fight the fire. Get out and call 999 immediately.

Safe Use

  • Try to avoid leaving a dishwasher running during the night or when you are out, and as you can’t supervise it throughout the cycle, make sure you have a working smoke detector.
  • Ensure there are no leaks, particularly look for cracks in the detergent drawer, as these could allow water into the electrics
  • Keep the outlet filter clean
  • Dishwashers should be turned off when not in use.  If your dishwasher begins making a strange noise, don’t ignore it. If you think there might be a problem, always unplug it and contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.