Sales of traditional tumble dryers are surging ahead of an upcoming government rule change that will effectively ban less efficient models. The government has set out proposals to phase out inefficient gas-fired, air-vented, and condenser tumble dryers, requiring new models to have an Energy Efficiency Index (EEI) of less than 85. Vented dryers often score significantly higher than this threshold.
Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband has outlined plans to introduce new regulations to gradually eliminate the sale of conventional vented and condenser tumble dryers. The policy does not ban owning or using existing dryers, but it bans the sale of newer, less energy-efficient models to meet net zero targets.
Retailers are warning of a rush on traditional tumble dryers. Matt Oakes, head of sales at Appliance World Online, reported a 'massive uptick' in conventional vented and condenser dryer purchases. The company's warehouse, which normally holds over 15,000 appliances, currently lists two dryers among its top-selling products. Shopkeepers in Northern Ireland, already subject to similar EU rules, have also reported a spike in demand.
The government claims that on average, a heat pump tumble dryer owner could save £250 compared to a condenser model over 12 years, and £900 over 20 years. Heat pump dryers recycle hot air and operate at lower temperatures (around 50°C) but can struggle in cold conditions and take longer to dry clothes.
Luke Gammons, director of family store Wades in Ramsey, Isle of Man, said customers were buying air-vented dryers because 'they know they won't be able to get another one'. Some customers are concerned about where to place heat pump dryers, as many households keep tumble dryers in garages or outbuildings where cold temperatures can reduce efficiency.
