The Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) calls for caution when buying so-called energy-saving devices from online retailers. Such products sometimes promise that the electricity bill will be significantly reduced. The Federal Network Agency has checked various types of such devices and found numerous deficiencies.
In particular, the energy-saving devices obtained by the Federal Network Agency by test purchases from online retailers outside the EU showed visible formal deficiencies, such as incorrect CE markings, missing German operating instructions and a lack of responsible contact persons. The operation of such defective equipment is not permitted in Germany.
The Federal Network Agency points out that it regularly carries out inspections of electrical devices and radio products, in some cases also after receiving alerts from consumers: “These inspections take place both online and in stationary trade outlets. Anonymous test purchases are also carried out. In addition, there is intensive cooperation with customs authorities to stop non-compliant products already at the EU’s external border. Nevertheless, time and again products reach consumers that do not meet European standards and safety requirements. Conspicuous products are no longer allowed to be offered and are subject to market restrictive measures.”
trade-e-bility is pleased to be your contact for the CE and the UKCA marking and will be happy to help you with questions about potential formal defects. The example also shows that optimal Legal monitoring is necessary as an existential risk precaution in order to protect you under product law. If you have any questions, the trade-e-bility advisory team will be pleased to assist you via beratung@trade-e-bility.de or +49/40/75068730-0.
