The UK government has announced plans to phase out the sale of inefficient condenser and vented tumble dryers as part of new Ecodesign legislation. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) says the measure would 'effectively phase out the sale of more inefficient' dryers, aiming to reduce household energy consumption and help meet net zero targets.
Under the proposed regulations, all tumble dryers sold in Great Britain will need to meet higher minimum energy performance standards. This is expected to lead to the dominance of heat pump dryers, which are more energy-efficient. Vented dryers are likely to disappear from the market unless manufacturing methods change significantly, as they currently use too much energy.
Consumer group Which? has welcomed the move, stating that it protects consumers from high running costs. Senior researcher Rebecca Jakeman said: 'I think it's about time consumers were better protected against inefficient appliances that really ramp up energy bills.' She urged consumers not to be 'fearmongered' into believing heat pump dryers are overpriced or inefficient.
Heat pump dryers, once considered a premium option, have become more affordable. The average price of models tested by Which? is just over £600, with some available for under £300. While they run at cooler temperatures and have longer cycles, they use significantly less energy. Which? estimates the average heat pump dryer costs £52 a year to run, compared to £130 for a condenser model, saving £1,560 over a typical 20-year lifespan.
The government has also confirmed reforms to energy labelling requirements for tumble dryers. The statutory instrument will be introduced 'as soon as time allows', according to DESNZ.
