Spikey Fire
Products and appliances

Sat navs

Sat navs usage and safety

Sat navs (satellite navigation) devices are now commonplace in modern cars and are a lifesaver when you’re running late. But it is important to use one safely.

Sat nav systems generally fall into three main categories – portable standalone units (such as Garmin and TomTom), built-in in-dash systems, and smartphone apps.

They deliver real-time routing information, traffic updates, and POI databases without requiring a constant mobile signal, unlike some phone apps.

Specialist models are available for trucks, motorhomes, bikes and motorcycles with extra features such as inputting vehicle dimensions to avoid unsuitable roads or low bridges, more rugged designs, superior waterproofing, and specialist routing for biking trails.

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Key points

  • Whichever type you choose, avoid buying second-hand sat navs.
  • Only use the correct mains power charger or in-vehicle charger to charge the sat nav’s internal battery.
  • A sat nav can overheat if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time.

Buying a sat nav

  • Whichever you choose, buy from a reputable retailer rather than a third-party seller online, as it may not have passed all the necessary safety checks.
  • You will find lots of online reviews of sat navs, but don’t rely solely on these as they can be faked by unscrupulous sellers.
  • Register your sat nav so you can be contacted easily if there is a safety recall. It’s also much easier to return a faulty product or order a repair if it’s registered.

Using a sat nav safely

  • Follow all product instructions and all instructions in your vehicle owner’s manual regarding accessories or modifications.
  • Most sat navs are USB-powered, usually direct plug-in devices with standard plug pins or a USB charger that plugs into vehicle’s auxiliary power outlets. Only use a USB charger from a reputable source as there are many substandard, dangerous chargers available.
  • If your sat nav comes with a supplied charger, only use that or one recommended by the manufacturer.
  • The correct charging voltage and current is critical for safety. Ensure the charger is connected to a power source with the correct fitting and voltage requirements.
  • Only use the correct mains power charger or in-vehicle charger to charge the sat nav’s internal battery.
  • If you need to replace the battery or charger refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and buy replacements directly from the manufacturer or one approved by the manufacturer.
  • Exposing the sat nav to direct sunlight for prolonged periods can cause it to overheat and become damaged. And don’t handle the sat nav if it is hot.
  • The sat nav must not be exposed to moisture or water or used in a high moisture environment.
  • Allow adequate ventilation around the charger when using it and prevent it from being covered with paper or other objects.
  • Stop using your sat nav, charger or plug if they appear to be damaged. And don’t attempt to alter or manipulate the sat nav in any way.
  • Don’t use the charger while it’s inside a carrying case or other container.

ALWAYS

  • Do plenty of research first before buying.
  • Buy a trusted brand from a reputable retailer.
  • Use the correct mains charger or in-vehicle charger.
  • Register your sat nav with the manufacturer.

AVOID

  • Buying second-hand sat navs from third-party sellers online.
  • Altering or manipulating the sat nav in any way.
  • Using the sat nav if it appears to be damaged.
  • Covering it with paper or other objects.

Stay safe with electrical products

Check the battery

Regularly check the condition of the battery for dents, deformities, and signs of overheating. If you notice any damage, stop using and charging the battery immediately and replace it. 

Protect with an RCD

An RCD (residual current device) in your consumer unit (fusebox) protects you from electric shocks if a product is faulty.

If you don’t have RCD protection, use an RCD plug on the socket where the product is plugged in.

Fit smoke and heat alarms

Ensure there is at least one smoke or heat alarm per floor in your property. Fit enough alarms to cover all areas where a fire could start.

Test alarms at least once a month. Replace them every ten years or when the replace by date is reached.

Selected FAQs

If you’re unsure about an appliance or product, you’re not alone. These FAQs bring together expert advice and answers to the questions people ask us most, so you can feel more confident at home.

View all consumer faqs

It is recommended that periodic inspection and testing is carried out at the following times:

  • for tenanted properties, every 5 years or at each change of occupancy, whichever is sooner
  • at least every 10 years for an owner-occupied home
  • at least every 5 years for a business

The Landlords and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords of properties with short leases to keep the electrical wiring in repair and in proper working order. We recommend landlords arrange for periodic inspection and testing to be carried out by a registered electrician at the relevant intervals shown above.

Periodic inspection and testing of the electrics should be carried out more frequently on the places and premises listed here:

  • 3 years for a caravan
  • 1 year for a swimming pool

Periodic inspection and testing should be carried out only by electrically competent persons, such as registered electricians.

First, you need to find out whether the electrician you used is actually registered. To do this, contact the operator of the scheme they have claimed to be part of, and they will tell you whether this is the case. If they are registered, the scheme operator can guide you through their complaints procedure.

If you find out the electrician misled you and is not registered, you should report this to your local Trading Standards Department as they are breaking the law. We would also recommend that you get an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carried out on your home; this will assess any work that has been undertaken and will act as sufficient documentation to certify that work. This needs to be carried out by a registered electrician and unfortunately will be an added cost for you.

Additional info

Many people use their smartphones instead of a sat nav but there are a few disadvantages to be aware of.

Navigating on your phone may be a hassle and some smartphones don’t have the directions dictated by voice.

You also need to have adequate data connection to stream the maps, and they drain the phone battery quickly.

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