EU to limit vacuum-cleaner power to 900 watts – Maximum noise level reduced to 80 dB

New EU provisions regarding vacuum-cleaners, aiming to increase energy efficiency and reduce carbon-dioxide emission, will start being enforced next month.

The maximum level of noise in new vacuum-cleaners has been reduced to 80 dB, much lower than that made by many vacuum-cleaners currently used. Some of them emit noise of over 95 db, whereas 85 dB is considered the threshold beyond which the usage of ear protection is advised.

Beginning with September, vacuum-cleaners will have to be limited to 900 watts of power, as opposed to the the current 1,600 watts.

The provisions will start being enforced in September and will pertain to all models produced or sold in the EU countries.

Stores will be allowed to sell old models not in line with the new regulations after September as well, but only until the stock has been emptied. New regulations will not pertain to devices such as hand-held vacuum-cleaners and floor-polishing devices.

Beginning next month, the most efficient vacuum-cleaners will be able to carry the A+++ energy efficiency mark, based on their strength and ability to collect dust.

In 2014, the then new regulations reduced the maximum power from 1,800 watts.

Euro-skeptics, especially in the UK, often use the new rules regarding household devices as an example of what they claim to be excessive intrusion by Brussels into everyday life.

vacuum cleaners

ear protection

hand held vacuum cleaners

floor polishing devices

energy efficiency

maximum vacuum cleaner power