The Energy Information (Washing Machines) Regulations 1996

Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Regulations)

These Regulations implement Council Directive 92/75/EEC and Commission Directive 95/12/EC on energy labelling of household washing machines described in regulation 3.

Suppliers, as defined in regulation 2, must supply labels and tables of information (called information notices) with information about the energy consumption of those appliances (regulations 4 and 5). Suppliers are deemed to consent to the information in labels and information notices being published (regulation 6). They are responsible for the accuracy of the information (regulation 7) and are required to established technical documentation to enable it to be assessed (regulation 8).

Dealers, as defined in regulation 2, must attach the label to an appliance displayed to end-users or, where the appliance is not displayed, make the information notice available to potential purchasers before a sale is concluded (regulation 9 and 10). Neither requirement applies in distance-sales cases (regulation 11).

Regulation 12 requires similar information to be given where sales are by means of printed communications such as mail order catalogues.

Regulation 13 stops misleading information about energy consumption of the appliances being displayed. Regulation 14 and Schedule 5 create criminal offences and contain other provisions on enforcement. Regulation 15 contains transitional provisions.

A Compliance Cost Assessment, estimating the financial impact of the Regulations on suppliers, dealers and wholesalers of household washing machines and tumble driers covered by the scheme, can be obtained from: Environmental and Energy Management Directorate, Department of the Environment, 2 Marsham Street, London SW1P 3EB.