Appliance brand Whirlpool has launched a recall of tumble dryers that have not been modified, following Government demand.

It relates to selected models of Hotpoint, Indesit, Creda, Swan and Proline dryers built between 2004 and 2015.

The company recently admitted there could be up to 800,000 models in people’s homes across the UK.

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People can instantly check if their dryer is one of those affected by calling 0800 151 0905.

Affected dryers pose a potential safety risk if not modified or replaced by the manufacturer.

The recall aims to encourage owners of affected dryers to make contact immediately.

Under the recall, consumers have a choice of remedy options, which include: a free replacement dryer; a free in-home modification; or a refund based on the age of their appliance.

Consumers can also choose to upgrade their affected dryer for a discounted price.

The safety campaign began in 2015 and has resolved the issue for 1.7 million people, which Whirlpool reports is a success rate of up to five times the UK average for a product recall.

Vice president of Whirlpool Jeff Noel said: “People’s safety is our top priority, which is why we are expanding this important campaign.”

He continued:“We are committed to doing the right thing for our consumers and will continue to take every action possible to resolve this issue. “

“The crucial message is please contact us immediately if you still own one of these tumble dryers and haven’t already had it modified or replaced by us.”

The appeal and recall is part of a drive to raise awareness which includes a £1 million advertising campaign.

Whirlpool reports anyone with an affected dryer must unplug it immediately and stop using it.

Consumers whose dryers have already been replaced or modified by Whirlpool need take no further action.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) concluded consumers whose tumble dryers have been modified can continue to use them safely.

Director of Advocacy at consumer watchdog Which? Carolne Normand commented on the recall: “Whirlpool has failed to trace hundreds of thousands of fire-risk tumble dryers that could still be in people’s homes almost four years after this fault was first discovered, so we have serious doubts about the company’s ability to get these machines out of circulation now.

“Given it has taken the threat of government action for Whirlpool to act on this vital matter of public safety, ministers must closely monitor this recall and definitively establish the safety of modified machines, which have also caught fire, if they are to be offered as replacements.

“If Whirlpool’s approach is found wanting then the secretary of state must step in and ensure that all potentially dangerous machines are immediately removed from people’s homes.”