You need to check your Wi-Fi router this week or risk a broadband blackout

08 September 2023 , 07:44

1150     0

Hot weather can stop your WiFi router from working (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Brits are being warned to check their Wi-Fi routers amid the heatwave or risk a broadband blackout.

The soaring temperatures, while enjoyable for sunbathers, could spell disaster for your Wi-Fi connection. Broadband equipment is not a fan of the heat, and leaving your router in an ill-suited location could lead to a sudden halt in service. It's crucial to relocate your router away from window ledges and direct sunlight. Like many electronic devices, routers can overheat and shut down until they cool off. Such a shutdown would mean no internet access until the router reboots - a potential catastrophe for those relying on morning Zoom calls or afternoon Netflix sessions.

Virgin Media has issued a warning to its users to check their equipment. In a recent email, the company advised: "Always keep it indoors in a cool place and out of bright sunlight to prevent it from overheating." Another useful tip during this heatwave is to ensure good air circulation around the router and avoid surrounding it with clutter that could obstruct ventilation.

However, heat isn't the only enemy of Wi-Fi. Numerous objects can interfere with signals, including fish tanks, cordless phones, baby monitors, and microwave ovens. To maintain a strong signal, try to position your router away from anything that could cause disruption.

With the heatwave set to linger until next week, it's crucial to give your router some TLC to avoid any unwanted outages. Don't tuck it away in cupboards or hide it behind the TV - these spots can turn very hot, and potentially damage your device.

Sky TV and broadband customers given urgent warning about price hike in bills

The tech warnings come as the Met Office revealed that the UK could have a record six days of 30C heat for the first time in September. Thursday was provisionally the hottest day of the year so far, with 32.6C recorded in Wisley, Surrey, the forecaster said. The previous highest temperature for the year was set in June at 32.2C.

The heatwave has already broken the record for the most consecutive days with temperatures above 30C in September, with Saharan dust generating vivid sunsets and sunrises in the clear conditions. Thursday was the fourth day above 30C, beating the record of three days seen on four previous occasions, most recently in 2016.

A six-day heat alert from the UK Health Security Agency is in force until Sunday night, and warns of higher incident rates and 'significant impacts' on vulnerable people. It also suggests further strain could be placed on the already-stretched NHS.

* This article was crafted with the help of an AI tool, which speeds up The Mirror's editorial research. An editor reviewed this content before it was published. You can report any errors to [email protected]

David Snelling