Households that need a working appliance again quickly
If you can’t wash clothes, keep food fresh or cook, compare the stated repair timescale with the delivery date and installation arrangements for a replacement.
Who is this decision for?
People weighing up repair, new and second-hand options
A diagnosis helps you compare practical options. If you’re considering a second-hand or refurbished appliance, check the model reference, condition, included items and seller’s identity before you choose.
Households thinking about future repairs
When replacing an appliance, look for information about parts compatible with its model. For washing machines, the durability index published by the ministry responsible for ecological transition is another point to consider.
What should you check before deciding?
Start with the fault and the timescale your household can manage. Then check each option against the appliance’s exact model reference and the arrangements for getting it up and running.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnosis and repair | Ask what fault has been identified, which part is needed and when the appliance could be working again. Check what the quote includes. | If I can get my appliance back in use quickly, I want to compare this option with a replacement that’s actually available. |
| Repair Bonus | In France, check the appliance category, its warranty, the type of fault and whether the repairer is QualiRépar-certified. According to ecosystem and the Ministry of the Economy, the scheme only applies when its conditions are met. | I want to find out whether support could be available for my repair before accepting the quote, without assuming it’s automatic. |
| Parts and durability | Check whether the part is available for the exact model reference. For a replacement washing machine, look at its durability index out of 10. The DGCCRF and the ministry responsible for ecological transition distinguish between the information that applies to different appliance categories. | I’d rather check what repair options are available for my next appliance than assume they’re the same for a washing machine, an oven and a fridge. |
| Installation and timing | Check the dimensions, whether it needs to be built in, the power supply and the connections. Confirm delivery, installation and when the appliance will be ready to use. | My replacement needs to fit in my home and be ready to use without unnecessarily extending the time I’m without the appliance. |
| Second-hand and refurbished | Check the stated condition, model reference, essential accessories and seller’s credentials. The Ministry of the Economy explains that the legal guarantee of conformity also applies to second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a business, but not to private sales. | I’m interested in giving an appliance a second life if I can check what I’ll receive, the delivery arrangements and my rights in relation to the seller. |
| Old appliance | Ask how take-back is arranged when buying an appliance of the same type, and check the access and disconnection requirements. The ministry responsible for ecological transition describes this as one-for-one take-back for relevant equipment. | If I can’t transport my old appliance, I want to arrange its removal before the new one arrives. |
What pitfalls should you avoid?
-
Comparing two options without considering how they’ll be put into use
A replacement that won’t fit through the access routes or needs different connections won’t solve the problem straight away. A repair also depends on the part required and the stated timescale.
Ask for a clear diagnosis and repair schedule. For a new appliance, check the dimensions, installation, delivery and take-back arrangements before ordering.
-
Relying on the Repair Bonus before checking the fault
According to ecosystem and the Ministry of the Economy, France’s support scheme has conditions relating to the appliance, its warranty, the fault and the repairer’s certification.
First check whether the appliance may be covered, then ask a QualiRépar repairer whether the proposed work qualifies for the scheme.
-
Treating all second-life offers alike
Check the appliance’s condition and what’s included in each individual listing. The Ministry of the Economy also distinguishes between sales by businesses, which are covered by the legal guarantee of conformity, and private sales.
Ask for the exact model reference, a description of its condition, a list of accessories and proof of purchase. Make sure you know who the seller is before committing.
-
Assuming parts are available in the same way for every appliance
The information and requirements set out by the DGCCRF vary depending on the appliance category and the parts concerned. The durability index shown for washing machines shouldn’t be applied to an oven or a fridge.
Note down the model reference and ask the manufacturer or repairer about the part you need. Use the index only for the categories it applies to.
What can brands tell you?
The services a brand advertises can help guide your checks, but how relevant they are depends on your appliance’s model reference and fault.
Bosch
Worth looking into if you want to use the manufacturer’s resources and support for a large Bosch appliance.
- Bosch provides manuals, support and options for finding repairers.
- Check which parts you need for your model reference and what warranty terms apply. The existence of a manufacturer service doesn’t confirm that a repair is possible.
Whirlpool
Worth considering if finding an original part for a Whirlpool appliance is part of your decision.
- Whirlpool offers an original-parts shop with a search by model reference and availability information provided by the brand.
- Before assuming a repair is possible, confirm the part, its compatibility and the lead time for your model.
Electrolux
Worth looking into if you want to find a part or arrange a service visit for an Electrolux appliance.
- Electrolux says it offers original parts and the option to schedule a technical service visit.
- Check the product code, part and service timescale for your specific appliance.
Appliances to consider as replacements
These Joybuy options are for replacing a built-in oven or a fridge freezer. First compare their features with those of your broken appliance, and check the delivery and installation arrangements.
Image unavailable
Samsung NV7B41403BS/U5, 76 L built-in oven
An option if you’re replacing a built-in oven. This model is listed with a 76 L capacity and an A+ rating. Check the housing dimensions and installation requirements before choosing it.
Image unavailable
Candy CFQQ5T817EPS, 467 L fridge freezer
If you’re replacing a fridge freezer, compare its 467 L capacity with your storage needs. This four-door model is listed with Total No Frost and an E rating. Check its dimensions and the access route for delivery.
Image unavailable
CHiQ JR263LGE, 262 L fridge freezer
If width is a key consideration, this model is 54 cm wide and 176 cm tall. It’s listed with a 262 L capacity and a Low Frost freezer. Check what maintenance it requires.
Image unavailable
Hotpoint FI4485PIX, 71 L pyrolytic built-in oven
This 71 L built-in oven has an A+ rating and pyrolytic cleaning, if that’s a feature you’re looking for. Before replacing your oven, check the housing, connections and instructions for using the pyrolytic function.
Image unavailable
Whirlpool OMR58CR1B, 71 L catalytic built-in oven
If you’re replacing a built-in oven, this model has a listed capacity of 71 L, catalytic cleaning and an A+ rating. Confirm the housing dimensions and the electrical requirements for your installation.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Repair Bonus automatically apply to a broken large appliance?
No. According to ecosystem and the Ministry of the Economy, France’s Repair Bonus depends on factors including the appliance’s warranty, the type of fault and the work being carried out by a QualiRépar-certified repairer. Check whether you meet the conditions before relying on it when assessing the quote.
What should I ask before accepting a repair quote?
Ask the professional to identify the fault and appliance model reference, specify the parts required and their availability, and confirm the repair timescale and what the quote includes. Don’t attempt a risky repair yourself on an electrical, refrigeration or gas appliance.
Does a refurbished appliance come with the legal guarantee of conformity?
Yes, if it’s sold by a business. The Ministry of the Economy explains that the legal guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold in this way. It doesn’t apply to private sales, so make sure you know who the seller is and keep your proof of purchase.
How can I arrange for my old appliance to be taken away?
When you buy an appliance of the same type, the one-for-one take-back scheme described by the ministry responsible for ecological transition lets you hand over your old appliance. Check the collection arrangements with the seller, including access to your home and disconnection.
Does the durability index help you compare all large appliances?
No. The ministry responsible for ecological transition gives a durability index for washing machines, scored out of 10 and based in part on repairability and reliability. For an oven, dishwasher or fridge, check the information specific to the model and parts concerned instead; don’t assume the index applies to these appliances.