Start by checking an old or faulty fridge or freezer, as it runs constantly, then look at the appliances your household uses most often. Replacing an appliance is not automatically cost-effective: compare energy use on the labels of models in the same category, choose a capacity that suits your needs and check whether your current appliance can be repaired.
A fridge or freezer runs constantly, as ADEME points out. If yours is getting old or isn’t working properly, compare its condition and the capacity you need with the kWh/year figures for the models you’re considering. Don’t assume that buying a new one will lower your bill.
If you run cycles often, capacity, energy-use figures and the conditions for the reference programme matter just as much as the energy efficiency class. Also check programme times and noise levels against where you plan to put the appliance.
If an appliance has broken down, identify the model and the fault before comparing replacements. The applicable warranty, availability of parts and, depending on the appliance category, the French durability or repairability index can help you make your decision.
Start by checking the condition of each household appliance and how often you use it. Then compare energy use using the units and conditions relevant to its category.
| Priority | What to check | My needs |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge or freezer | Check the condition of your current appliance, then compare the kWh/year and usable capacity of similar replacements. The European Commission explains that the label for refrigeration appliances shows annual energy consumption. | My appliance runs constantly. If it’s old or faulty, I want to consider replacing it without assuming in advance that I’ll save money. |
| Washing machine | Compare kWh/100 cycles, water use per reference cycle and a capacity that suits your usual loads. Also check the reference programme’s duration and noise level, as well as the durability index applicable in France. | I do laundry frequently, so I’m looking for a capacity I can use without automatically opting for a larger drum. |
| Tumble dryer | Read the label for the model you’re considering and compare models with similar capacities. Take into account how often you actually use a tumble dryer and any installation requirements. | I use a tumble dryer often, particularly when air-drying is difficult, so it’s worth looking at how I use it. |
| Dishwasher | The European Commission says the label includes information such as kWh/100 cycles, water use per cycle, the duration of the Eco programme, capacity and noise level. Also check the repairability index applicable in France. | If I run cycles regularly, I want a capacity that suits my household’s dishes, rather than choosing a model based on its energy class alone. |
| Repair and installation | Note down the model number and fault for your current appliance, then check the warranty, parts availability and whether it can be repaired. For a replacement, check the dimensions, access, connections and noise level. | Before replacing an appliance, I want to find out whether it can be repaired and whether a new model will fit in its space. |
The letter doesn’t tell you everything about energy use. The European Commission gives figures in kWh/year for refrigeration appliances, compared with kWh/100 cycles for washing machines and dishwashers. These figures aren’t directly comparable.
Compare appliances in the same category, then take their capacity and how often you use them into account.
A fault doesn’t automatically mean you need a replacement. The applicable warranty, access to parts and the type of repair needed can all affect your options.
Note down the model number and symptoms, check the warranty and parts availability, then get a quote before deciding.
A larger capacity may not be right for you if your usual loads are small.
Estimate how much laundry or how many dishes you wash in each cycle, then choose a capacity that suits your routine.
An appliance may seem energy-efficient, but still cause problems if its dimensions, connections or noise level aren’t right for your home.
Measure the space and access points, then check the connections, any drainage requirements and the noise level before ordering.
Brand statements can help you look into parts availability or expected lifespan, but they don’t replace information about the specific model you choose.
A brand to consider if advertised access to spare parts is important when choosing a large appliance.
Another option to consider if advertised parts availability is a factor when shortlisting a large appliance.
For W1/W2 front-loading washing machines, you can consider Miele’s endurance claims alongside the energy label and durability index.
These fridge-freezers and washing machines cover two of the categories worth considering, depending on the condition of your appliances and how you use them. Compare each model with appliances in the same category. This list doesn’t determine which appliance you should replace first.
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If you’re considering replacing a fridge or freezer, compare its 262 L capacity with the space your household needs. This Low Frost model is 54 cm wide and 176 cm high. Check that it fits your space and look at the annual energy consumption on the label for the exact model.
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Before replacing a washing machine, consider whether you’ll regularly need an 11 kg capacity for your usual loads. The product name indicates an A energy class. Check the kWh/100 cycles and the exact model’s durability index to complete your comparison.
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If you’re considering a large-capacity fridge-freezer, check that its 467 L capacity suits your needs and the space available. This four-door model is described as Total No Frost and has an E energy class. Compare its kWh/year on the label with similar appliances of a comparable type and capacity.
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If you’re replacing a fridge or freezer, compare its stated 360 L capacity with the usable space you typically need. This three-door model is described as Total No Frost and has an E energy class. Check its dimensions and kWh/year on the label before comparing it with other models.
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If you’re replacing a washing machine, compare its 9 kg capacity with the size of your usual loads. The model name indicates a maximum spin speed of 1 600 rpm. Check its label for kWh/100 cycles and its durability index to help you make your choice.
No. The European Commission says the label for a fridge or freezer shows kWh/year, while washing machine and dishwasher labels include figures such as kWh/100 reference cycles. First compare models in the same category and with a suitable capacity, then take your usage into account.
Yes. This applies to the relevant categories, including fridges, washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers. The French Ministry of the Economy confirms that the requirement also applies to online sales. Look at the figures and reference conditions on the label, not just the letter.
Check the durability index. According to the French Ministry for Ecological Transition, it has been gradually replacing the repairability index for washing machines since 8 April 2025. It complements the energy label, but on its own it can’t predict how long your appliance will last.
No. Identify the fault and model number, then check the warranty, parts availability and whether it can be repaired. The repairability index applicable to dishwashers in France can also help you assess a model before buying.
In France, the Ministry of the Economy points out that the legal guarantee of conformity covers new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a business to a private customer. Report the fault to the seller and check the terms of the guarantee before deciding to replace the appliance at your own expense.