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Patrick and Tim think they have found a way to do away with extractor fans and bad smells.

The entrepreneurs unveil a pair of toilets and demonstrate their small electrical extractor fans that remove air from the toilet bowl and pump it straight into the outflow pipe.

Duncan Bannatyne owns health clubs, hotels and spas and says he has never had complaints about smelly toilets.  At this, Tim and Patrick shift their emphasis.

They say that although their original aim was to remove bad smells, their solution complies with building regulations and removes the need for extractor fans and ventilation, potentially saving a lot of money on ventilation systems and ducting and allowing a toilet to be put anywhere.

Deborah Meaden thinks removing unattractive vents is a good idea, especially in the home. She enquires into how it works mechanically and the safety involved in using electricity so close to running water. The duo field both questions expertly.

James Caan likes the product but doesn't think he'll get a return on his investment. Patrick and Tim make a spirited defence based on projected sales figures but James isn't convinced it will make him enough money and becomes the first Dragon to declare himself out.

Peter Jones thinks that it should be sold in builders' merchants because it's a niche product that won't sell in volume.  He says Tim and Patrick should persevere, but he will not invest.

But Duncan immediately disagrees with Peter: he thinks they shouldn't persevere.  From his building experience he doesn't think the product will work.  He too declares himself out.

Deborah looks further into how the product works and identifies a problem: the existing product won't work in cubicle rows without a solid wall.  Patrick and Tim want to develop a version that would work in other settings, but the discovery of this detail makes Deborah's mind up against investing.

Theo Paphitis is the only remaining Dragon.  He points out that an electrician is required which rules out DIYers and there are other solutions.  He makes it unanimous.

The deal done in the Den:

No investment

Last updated: 30th August 2010