Which? warned on 27 September 2022 about the risks of using gas cooking appliances incorrectly, after a safety notice from the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) covering gas range cookers from Belling, Stoves and New World. The notice identified 127 models whose gas grills present "a significant risk to health and death" if used with the grill door closed1.
All the cookers were manufactured by Glen Dimplex Home Appliance Ltd. Some 66,010 range cookers were manufactured, and models in sizes 90cm, 100cm and 110cm were purchased between 2010 and 2022. The model numbers are listed in the OPSS product safety report. The serial number, which may include characters such as a dash or slash, is on the data plate at the front edge of the main oven and at the back of the cooker1.
The OPSS is requiring the withdrawal of these products from the market, which means they should be removed from sale and retailers must stop advertising them. The safety alert covers only the grill: the gas hob and oven are not included. The cookers must only be used with the grill door fully open, in accordance with the advice in their instruction manuals1.
Which? reported that carbon monoxide can build up inside the appliance if the grill door is closed, and that carbon monoxide is a clear, odourless gas that is dangerous to breathe in, potentially causing harm or death. A spokesperson for Glen Dimplex Home Appliances Ltd said:
"There is nothing wrong with the product if used correctly; with the grill door open, as detailed in the instruction manual. If used incorrectly i.e. with the grill door closed, there is potential risk of carbon monoxide build up which can cause serious injury or death."
Which? said owners do not need to take any action as long as they are using the cooker correctly. It said anyone with further concerns or needing additional safety information should contact Glen Dimplex Home Appliances Ltd by phone on 0800 110 5728, Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm, or by email at consumersupport@glendimplex.com1.
Why it matters for households
The notice affects households with one of the named Belling, Stoves and New World gas range cookers bought between 2010 and 2022. Which? said most electric cookers can be used with the door closed, but this is not the case for gas grills, and that it is essential to check the user manual for the guidance on a specific appliance. It also said the grill should not be used as an oven, a space heater or for any other purpose than intended1.
Which? advised that households with a fuel-burning boiler, fire or stove (gas, LPG, oil or wood) should have a carbon monoxide detector in every room where fuel is burned. It said such detectors cost from less than £10 to over £25, and that safe, reliable versions can be found for around £201. CO-Gas Safety noted that carbon monoxide alarms are to be compulsory in all rented property with appliances powered by carbon-based fuels except gas cookers, so an all-electric rented property with a gas cooker would not have to have a CO alarm1.
The site's kitchen fires guide covers cooking safety and prevention, and the home emergencies hub covers practical preparation for incidents at home.
What happens next
The OPSS is requiring the withdrawal of the affected products from the market, so they should be removed from sale and retailers must stop advertising them1. No further dates have been reported.
Sources (1)
- Which? warns about potential gas oven grill risks 27.09.22 | CO-Gas Safety, co-gassafety.co.uk
