By Chris Williams-
Hotpoint say 64,000 units of the same model were made between 2006 and 2009, when they were discontinued, adding that the number in circulation would be lower given the time period involved.
The FF175BP model had never been subject to a product recall, leading to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to order an immediate examination of the unit by technical experts to establish the cause of fault. However, with the strong belief that the fridge freezer was a product of their manufacturing, hotpoint bosses are now deeply concerned and acutely conscious of the need to avoid any possibility of a repeat of the disaster. Hotpoint , owned by Whirlpool, are now very concerned for all residents using fridges manufactured by the company to contact them for extra checks or complete changing of their fridges.
Business Secretary Greg Clark said: “The device is being subject to immediate and rigorous testing to establish the cause of the fire. I have made clear to the company that I will expect them to replace any item without delay if it is established that there is a risk in using them.”
The department has so far advised consumers not overload plugs, ensure sockets are not damaged and to check cables and leads are in good condition.
Hotpoint fridge-freezers with model number sFF175BP or FF175BG are now of particular worry.
A Hotpoint spokesman said: “Words cannot express our sorrow at this terrible tragedy. We offer our most profound condolences to the victims, those who have lost loved-ones, homes, and possessions, and to their friends and families. A hotpoint spokesperson said in a statement:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those involved, including the emergency services who risked their lives to extinguish the blaze and rescue those in the building.
“We have just been informed that the fire may have originated in a Hotpoint fridge-freezer (model number FF175BP).
“We are working with the authorities to obtain access to the appliance so that we can assist with the ongoing investigations. Under these circumstances, we are unable to speculate on further details at this time.
“We are addressing this as a matter of utmost urgency and assisting the authorities in any way we can. We will provide additional updates as our investigations progress.”