China's New Safety Standards for Household Electrical Appliances Take Effect in 2026

Starting August 1, 2026, China will enforce updated safety standards for household electrical appliances under GB/T 4706.1—2024, aligning regulations with international safety norms. These changes impact manufacturers, importers, and distributors by introducing revised compliance requirements across multiple product categories, including refrigerators, air conditioners, and induction cookers.

International businesses exporting to China must ensure all products meet the new standards before the deadline to maintain market access. The updated regulations include mandatory certification adjustments and a self-declaration process for motor-compressors, requiring timely action to avoid disruptions. Companies should assess the impact on their product lines and certification strategies well in advance.

Overview of the New Standards

The updated standards revise GB 4706.1—2005 and related product-specific requirements, consolidating and clarifying guidelines for various household appliances, including portable induction cookers, evaporative air coolers, and more. The changes aim to align with technological advancements and international safety norms.

Regulatory authorities have outlined clear timelines and procedures to ensure an orderly transition for manufacturers, certification bodies, and other stakeholders.

Key Updates and Transition Period

1. Updated Standards for Safety

The safety standards list for household appliances has been revised (see table below). Certification bodies must ensure all new certifications adhere to these updated standards by the implementation date.

2. Self-Declaration for Motor-Compressors

Motor-compressors (product code 0704) are now subject to a self-declaration evaluation method, which requires manufacturers to update their compliance declarations by the deadline.

3. Transition Timeline

Now–July 2026: Certification bodies and manufacturers can prepare for the new standards while adhering to the existing ones.
August 2026 onwards: Only products compliant with the new standards will be certified.

No.Product Category & CodeBasis StandardsSafety StandardsEMC Standards1Household refrigerators and freezers (0701)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.13GB 4343.1, GB 17625.12Electric fans (0702)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.27 (non-evaporative), GB/T 4706.115 (evaporative)GB 4343.1, GB 17625.13Air conditioners (0703)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.32GB 4343.1, GB 17625.14Motor-compressors (0704)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.17—5Household washing machines (0705)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.24, GB/T 4706.20 (if applicable), GB/T 4706.26 (if applicable)GB 4343.1, GB 17625.16Water heaters (0706)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.12, GB/T 4706.32 (if applicable) (storage), GB/T 4706.11 (instantaneous)—7Space heaters (0707)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.23—8Vacuum cleaners (0708)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.7GB 4343.1, GB 17625.19Skin and hair care appliances (0709)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.15GB 4343.1, GB 17625.110Electric irons (0710)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.2GB 4343.1, GB 17625.111Induction cookers (0711)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.14 (portable) or GB/T 4706.22 (stationary)—12Electric ovens and similar appliances (0712)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.14—13Food processing appliances (0713)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.30, GB/T 4706.19 (if applicable)—14Microwave ovens (0714)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.21—15Stoves and similar appliances (0715)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.22—16Range hoods (0716)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.28—17Liquid heaters and water dispensers (0717)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.19, GB/T 4706.13 (for water dispensers)—18Electric rice cookers (0718)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.19GB 4343.1, GB 17625.119Electric blankets and pads (0719)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.8—20Electronic bidets (0720)GB/T 4706.1GB/T 4706.53—

Key Steps for Certificate Holders

1. Review the Updated Standards: Analyze the revised GB/T 4706.1—2024 and product-specific standards to identify any implications for your existing and future product lines.

2. Engage Certification Bodies: Work with your designated certification organization to ensure all certifications are updated in accordance with the new rules related to the latest version of the safety standard.

3. Prepare Self-Declarations: For motor-compressors in the household and similar equipment category, complete self-declaration updates before the deadline to avoid certification delays, as the CCC self-declaration assessment method only applies to this specific group.

4. Ensure Compliance with EMC Standards: For products requiring electromagnetic compatibility testing, confirm that testing laboratories meet updated requirements.

5. Update Labeling and Documentation: Ensure all product labeling aligns with the revised standards and that compliance documentation is filed with relevant authorities.

Further Information

To read the original CNCA announcement about updates safety standards for household electrical appliances, please click here.

The revised safety standards for household appliances reflect China’s ongoing commitment to improving product safety and aligning with global standards. Manufacturers and importers should use the transition period to adapt their processes, update certifications, and ensure compliance.

Staying ahead of these regulatory updates is essential for maintaining market access and avoiding disruptions. For further assistance in navigating these changes, contact Cisema for expert guidance on certification compliance and regulatory requirements.