EU look to ban high-powered hairdryers

EU are looking at banning a range of appliances to reduce energy consumption

15:54 01 September 2014

EU is considering banning high-powered hairdryers in an attempt to curb energy consumption.

 

A recent study conducted to tackle climate change has identified up to 30 household appliances that could be restricted to curb energy consumption. Powerful vacuum cleaners were already banned and high-powered hairdryers might follow suit.

 

Starting today, September 1, companies in EU will no longer be allowed to make or import vacuum cleaners above 1600 watts. Retailers reported increase in sales ahead of the deadline. Tesco said that the sales of vacuum cleaners soared by 44per cent while Co-op Electrical has seen a 38per cent rise.

 

However, an EU commissioner spokeswoman said that EU might not regulate hairdryers at all.

 

"It's a study we have asked consultants to do. In the final report they will reduce 30 products to 20. In January 2015 we will look at these recommendations then select from this list what to regulate and how," she said.

 

Former NHF president Mark Corary said a ban would not reduce energy consumption as it would mean blow-drying a client's hair would take longer.

"The more powerful, the faster the blow dry - it's as simple as that," he said.