EDF is advising customers using its Ecomanager energy monitor to unplug their transmitter plugs immediately, as they are at risk of overheating. Up to 4,200 customers are being contacted by EDF as it is recalling a batch of transmitter plugs that have been supplied with its Ecomanager energy monitor. Customers – who have spent £69.99 on the energy monitor, or opted to receive it as part of the EDF Ecomanager energy tariff – are being advised to unplug the transmitter plugs immediately.
Which ? energy monitors expert Hazel Cottrell says: ‘The Ecomanager is one of the only energy monitors on the market that allows you to monitor individual appliances’ energy use, so it's unfortunate that these plugs are proving troublesome.’
EDF Ecomanager
EDF says that five customers have so far reported problems with the transmitter plugs, which has led it to recall the products ‘as a precaution’. In all five cases the transmitter plugs had overheated, causing the casing to distort and the product to stop working. The energy giant will be fully testing the plugs to find the cause of this problem, but says that the original product was certified by the manufacturer to meet EU safety, health and environment requirements. It added that it is not aware of any issues with the Ecomanager handheld display. EDF has apologised for any inconvenience caused and says it will send out free replacements to affected customers within 28 days. It will also be sending out pre-paid envelopes so customers can return the recalled plugs free of charge, and has set up a freephone number (0808 101 5181)
Best Buy energy monitors
Which ? has just tested 11 of the latest energy monitors, including the Ecomanager, to find out which are the most accurate, consistent and easy to use. Hazel says: ‘There’s a wide range of energy monitors on the market – all offering varying levels of functionality - and we’ve found that there are significant differences between the best and worst models. We’ll be revealing which models are Best Buys in the January issue of Which?’ Right now you can check our guide smart meters and energy monitors explained to see a video of an energy monitor in action or visit Which? Switch to find out how much money you could save by switching energy