If an appliance breaks down, start by finding out what the problem is and looking into suitable repairs before deciding to replace it. If you do decide to replace it, compare new appliances using the information relevant to their category, or assess a refurbished appliance based on the tests carried out and the details of the specific item on offer.
You want to understand what has gone wrong and whether a professional repair could keep your appliance going. ADEME recommends finding out what caused the problem before deciding to replace it.
You want to compare energy consumption information and the durability or repairability ratings that apply to the type of appliance you’re considering.
You want to make sure the stated condition, tests and specifications accurately describe the refurbished appliance on offer.
Once you know what the problem is, find out whether a suitable repair is possible. If you decide to replace the appliance, check the information for the specific new model or refurbished item you’re considering.
| What matters | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Whether it can be repaired | Get the fault diagnosed and look into suitable repairs, including how long they might take. | If my appliance breaks down, I want to understand the fault before ruling it out; around 40% of consumers would make repairability their priority. |
| Choosing a suitable new model | Check the energy label where applicable, then look at the capacity and relevant rating for that category. | If I’m replacing an appliance I use a lot, I want its features to suit the way I use it; around 30% of consumers would put choosing a suitable new model first. |
| Condition of a refurbished appliance | Check the functional tests, stated condition and specifications of the item on offer. | If I choose a refurbished appliance, I want to know what checks have been carried out on the item being sold; around 30% of consumers would make this their priority. |
A visible fault on its own doesn’t tell you what caused the breakdown or whether it can be repaired. ADEME recommends finding out what went wrong before deciding to replace the appliance.
Get the appliance diagnosed and look into suitable repair options before choosing a replacement.
According to the French Ministry of the Economy, different appliance categories are covered by the durability and repairability ratings: the durability index applies to washing machines and televisions, while the repairability index remains the relevant rating for dishwashers and vacuum cleaners.
Identify the appliance’s exact category, then check the rating that applies to the model you’re considering.
The specifications for a new model may not tell you about the condition, tests or accessories included with the refurbished item on offer.
Check the information for that specific item and make sure it meets your installation and usage needs.
No. A breakdown alone doesn’t mean you need to replace the appliance. Find out what caused it and look into suitable repairs before comparing other options.
According to the French Ministry of the Economy, the durability index applies to washing machines, while the repairability index remains the relevant rating for vacuum cleaners. Check the category and the rating shown for the specific model you’re considering.
Check the functional tests and the technical and cosmetic details for the appliance being sold. The DGCCRF states that a product described as refurbished must have undergone tests to ensure it is in good working order before being offered for sale.