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ghd Duet Style problems and fixes

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In short

Most ghd Duet Style problems come from a blocked air filter, hair that is too wet or sections that are too thick, or using the wrong mode for wet or dry hair. Unplug it, let it cool and clean the filter as the manual describes, towel dry hair well and work in smaller sections. If it will not switch on, test another socket and check the cable. If faults continue, contact ghd: current stylers carry a two-year guarantee from ghd or authorised stockists.

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The ghd Duet Style is a 2-in-1 hot air styler: plates that blow warm air through the hair to dry and straighten it from wet. Because it combines a dryer and straighteners, it has more ways to go wrong than plain plates, but most problems have simple causes. This guide works through the common symptoms, from slow drying and frizz to cutting out and flashing lights, with checks you can do safely at home. For anything electrical or persistent, contact ghd rather than opening the tool.

First checks for any problem

Unplug the Duet Style and let it cool before you check anything. Look over the cable and plug for damage, kinks or scorch marks; if you see any, stop using it and contact ghd. Try a different wall socket rather than an extension lead. Then check the air intake filter for hair, fluff and product build-up, because a blocked filter is behind many airflow and overheating faults.

  1. 1

    Unplug and let it cool completely.

  2. 2

    Inspect the cable and plug for damage.

  3. 3

    Clean the air filter as the manual describes.

  4. 4

    Try a different wall socket.

  5. 5

    Read the manual's section on lights and modes for your model.

Hair not drying or taking too long

The Duet Style is designed for towel dried hair, not dripping wet hair. If hair is very wet, it takes many passes and the roots may stay damp. Towel dry well, ideally with a microfibre towel, and comb out tangles first.

Section size matters more than with straighteners. Thick sections block the airflow and stay damp in the middle. Take sections narrower than the plates and only a centimetre or so thick, and glide slowly. A blocked filter also cuts airflow, so clean it if drying has become slower over time.

  • Hair dripping wet: towel dry more first.
  • Thick sections: halve them.
  • Gliding too fast: slow down so air passes through.
  • Slower than it used to be: clean the filter.

Frizz or a rough finish

Frizz usually means the hair is not fully dry, especially at the roots or the underneath layers, or that sections were too large. Go over any damp areas again. The listing describes a shine shot mode for dry hair only, which is meant for a final smoothing pass once hair is dry; check your manual for how your model's modes work.

Using the wrong mode can also affect the finish. The wet mode is for damp hair; switching to the dry hair mode on damp hair, or the reverse, will not give the intended result. A light styling product designed for heat styling can help, but heavy oils before drying can slow it down.

Cutting out, flashing lights or not switching on

If the Duet Style cuts out mid-use, it may be protecting itself from overheating, often because the filter or vents are blocked. Unplug, let it cool, clean the filter and try again. Flashing lights usually indicate a mode, a warning or a fault; the meaning depends on the model, so check the manual. ghd's straighteners use lights and beeps in a similar way, as our guide to ghd red light and beeping explains.

If it does not switch on at all, test the socket with another appliance, check the fuse in the plug if you are comfortable doing so and inspect the cable. If it still does not work, stop and contact ghd. Our article on ghd straighteners not working covers similar checks for plates.

Note:Never open the Duet Style, repair the cable yourself or use it with a damaged lead. It is a mains powered hot air appliance; use it away from water and contact ghd for repairs.

Guarantee, repairs and replacements

ghd lists a two-year manufacturer's guarantee on its current stylers bought from ghd or an authorised stockist, and it runs a repair service. Keep your proof of purchase and register the product. Our ghd warranty explainer covers what is usually included. If you are thinking of replacing it, our Dyson Airstrait vs ghd Duet Style comparison and the best wet-to-dry straighteners guide cover the alternatives.

See the best wet-to-dry straighteners →

Frequently asked questions

Can you use the ghd Duet Style on dry hair? Yes. ghd describes a mode for dry hair, including a shine shot for a final smoothing pass. Check your manual for how to select it.

Why is my ghd Duet Style so slow? Hair that is too wet, thick sections or a blocked filter. Towel dry well, use smaller sections and clean the filter.

Why does my Duet Style keep switching off? Often overheating protection from blocked vents or filter. Clean it and let it cool. If it continues, contact ghd.

Does the Duet Style get as hot as straighteners? It combines warm air with heated plates. The Amazon listing gives a maximum of 210 °C; check the manual for the temperature of each mode.

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