MAJOR vacuum cleaner manufacturer Numatic International says a redesign of its products has been ‘a challenge’ after new laws banning more powerful cleaners were introduced.

The firm, on Millfield Industrial Estate in Chard, which has about 750 staff, has been forced to adapt its Henry range to follow EU laws to make machines more environmentally-friendly.

Vacuum cleaners 1600 watts or above are now banned but by 2017 all vacuum cleaners sold in the EU will need to be less than 900 watts.

Head of media Andrew Ernill said the firm has been in the process of redesigning its Henry vacuum cleaners, which are now 580 watts, for over a year and said a decrease in wattage did not necessarily result in lower cleaning performance.

He said: “Advancements in airflow, floor-tool and hose design provide better cleaning from less input power.

“It has been a massive challenge not only to design the equipment but to switch the manufacturing process.

“The outcome has been very successful. Everyone at the factory should be very proud – we are the only vacuum manufacturer left in the UK and our staff rising to the challenge will ensure Henry continues to thrive in a highly competitive market.

“This is the first time consumers will be able to accurately compare vacuum cleaners using a labelling system similar to that currently seen with fridges and other white goods.

“Vacuum cleaners are now marked on an A-G rating system based on how energy efficient they are, how well they clean car|peted floors and hard floors, and how good its filtration is to keep re-emissions low.”

Chard & Ilminster News:

The redesigned Henry vacuum cleaner.

About one million Henry vacuum cleaners are made every year and it is rated A, C, C, C across the four areas.

More than 5,000 machines leave Numatic every day, including domestic vacuum cleaners and industrial cleaning machines for airports, hospitals, schools and large shopping malls.