Before replacing a broken household appliance, find out whether it can be professionally repaired and compare the quote with the cost of replacing it. If you need a new appliance, compare new models designed for the same purpose, looking at the relevant ratings and their energy consumption. Refurbished models are also worth considering when the listing clearly describes the specific item being sold. None of these options is right for every fault or every household.
If the appliance still met your needs, getting a professional quote can help you decide whether it’s worth extending its life. For eligible appliances and faults, also check the terms of the Repair Bonus with a QualiRépar-certified repairer.
Compare models designed for the same purpose, looking at the capacity, dimensions and energy consumption that matter to your household. Check the repairability or durability rating where one applies to the category.
You could consider a refurbished appliance if the listing clearly describes the condition of the specific item, both technically and cosmetically. The French Ministry of the Economy says a refurbished product must have undergone full functionality tests and been restored where necessary.
If an appliance has broken down, first find out whether it can be repaired. If you need to replace it, compare appliances designed for the same purpose and check exactly what each new or refurbished offer includes.
| What matters | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Whether it can be repaired | Ask for a diagnosis or quote. For the Repair Bonus, confirm that the appliance and fault are eligible, and check the terms of the work carried out by a QualiRépar repairer. | If my appliance still meets my needs, I want to know whether I can keep using it for longer before buying another one. Around 42% of consumers might put repair at the top of their priorities. |
| Choosing a new appliance | Compare models with a capacity and format to suit your needs. Check the relevant rating and, for applicable categories, the energy consumption shown on the energy label. | When I have to replace an appliance, I’m looking for one that suits my household without overlooking how much energy it uses. This could be a priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Condition of a refurbished appliance | Check the tests listed, the technical and cosmetic condition of the specific item, its dimensions and the accessories included. | I’m happy to choose a refurbished appliance if I can check exactly what I’ll receive. Refurbished products could be the priority for around 25% of consumers. |
In France, the Ministry of the Economy includes dishwashers and vacuum cleaners among the products covered by the repairability index. ADEME says washing machines have also been covered by the durability index since April 2025. These ratings help you assess one aspect of your choice, but they don’t replace comparing the capacity, dimensions and energy consumption that suit your needs.
A breakdown alone doesn’t mean an appliance can’t be repaired. According to ecosystem, eligibility for the Repair Bonus depends on factors including the appliance, whether the fault is eligible and whether it is still covered by a warranty.
Ask a QualiRépar-certified repairer for a diagnosis or quote, then compare the proposed repair with a replacement appliance that meets the same needs.
The repairability index and durability index don’t assess exactly the same criteria or apply to the same appliance categories. A rating on its own won’t tell you whether the capacity or energy consumption is right for your household.
Compare the relevant rating across similar models, then check the energy label, dimensions and installation requirements.
Refurbishment involves testing and, where necessary, restoring the appliance. However, the DGCCRF points out that the technical and cosmetic details must describe the specific refurbished item on offer, not just the original new model.
Before you choose, check the stated condition, capacity, required connections, included accessories and seller details.
These models are relevant if you’re replacing a fridge or fridge-freezer and this type of appliance meets your needs. Compare their capacity and format with your installation space, then check their energy consumption before making a decision. This selection doesn’t determine whether your current appliance can be repaired.
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Worth considering if you’re replacing a fridge-freezer and need this much storage space.
The product title lists a Total No Frost system, Wi-Fi and an energy rating of E. Check the dimensions and clearance required for installation.
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Its stated capacity could help you compare models if you need a replacement with plenty of space.
The product title mentions frost-free operation, an energy rating of E and a stated noise level of 40 dB. Check the dimensions and space required before buying.
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Worth comparing if you’re looking for a fridge-freezer with fridge and freezer capacities that suit your needs.
The product title lists a 252 L fridge, a 103 L freezer, a width of 60 cm and an energy rating of E. Check the other dimensions and required clearances.
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Its stated capacity could suit a household replacing a large fridge, provided it fits the available space.
The product title lists four doors and an energy rating of E. Measure your available space and check the clearance needed to open the doors and install the appliance.
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Consider this for limited or supplementary storage, after checking that 92 L is enough for your needs.
The product title mentions a compact freezer compartment and an energy rating of E. Check the full dimensions and the space available.
In France, the repairability index applies to products including dishwashers and vacuum cleaners, according to the Ministry of the Economy. ADEME says washing machines have been covered by the durability index since April 2025. Compare the rating for the category of appliance you’re considering.
No. According to ecosystem, the appliance must be one of the eligible types, no longer be covered by a warranty and have an eligible fault. Check these conditions with a QualiRépar-certified repairer before factoring the bonus into your decision.
Start with capacity, format and installation requirements, then check the relevant rating and energy label. ADEME says that for applicable appliances, the label can show energy use in kWh per 100 reference cycles and water use in litres per reference cycle. Compare figures measured on the same basis.
According to the Ministry of the Economy, a product sold as refurbished must have undergone full functionality tests and, where necessary, been restored before resale. The DGCCRF explains that the technical and cosmetic details must relate to the specific item being sold. Check its description rather than relying only on the specifications of the original new model.
Not necessarily: dimensions and installation requirements vary depending on the type of appliance and model. Before buying, check the exact model’s specifications and instructions against the space available, the required connections and the accessories provided.