After a breakdown, first check whether a professional can repair the appliance within an acceptable timeframe. If you need to replace it, when choosing a new appliance, check the relevant index and spare parts information. Alternatively, compare second-hand and refurbished options, taking into account the condition of the specific appliance, the seller and the delivery terms.
You need to compare the time it will take to arrange a professional repair with the time needed for delivery and, if necessary, installation. The repair bonus doesn’t mean every repair is possible or can be carried out straight away.
You want to choose an appliance that suits your household while checking the relevant index for its category, its repairability and the information available on spare parts.
You’re happy to choose an appliance that has been used before, provided you know its actual condition, which accessories are included, who the seller is and how delivery works.
First decide whether you can wait for a repair. If you need a replacement, check the terms and details for the new, refurbished or simply second-hand appliance you’re considering.
| What matters | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Whether a repair is possible | Ask whether a professional can carry out the repair, how long it will take and whether it qualifies for the repair bonus. | If I can get my appliance working again without replacing it, I want to know how long a repair will take before deciding. Around 29% of consumers prioritise a repair that can be carried out. |
| How long a new appliance will last | Check the relevant index for its category and the information on spare parts, then make sure the appliance is right for your household. | When buying a new replacement, I want to be able to assess how repairable it is rather than judge it on looks alone. Around 29% of consumers prioritise how long a new appliance will last. |
| Condition of a refurbished appliance | Check the description of the specific appliance, the tests it has undergone, the accessories, delivery and the seller’s status. | If I choose a refurbished appliance, I need to know what condition the one delivered to me will be in and who to contact if there’s a fault. Around 24% of consumers prioritise these conditions when buying refurbished. |
| Terms for second-hand appliances | Ask for the model reference, any known faults, included accessories and collection or delivery arrangements; identify the seller. | When looking at a second-hand listing, I want to assess the appliance’s condition and arrange transport before committing. Around 18% of consumers prioritise checking these details. |
According to the French ministry responsible for ecology, in France the durability index has applied to televisions since 8 January 2025 and washing machines since 8 April 2025. Other categories have a repairability index instead; the two scores don’t assess exactly the same criteria.
Identify the appliance category, then check the index that applies to it and the details behind its criteria before comparing models.
The DGCCRF defines a refurbished product as a second-hand item whose functions have been fully tested and which has been restored to working order if necessary. The appearance and accessories should be assessed for the specific item being sold.
Ask for a description of the specific appliance, the tests it has undergone, any signs of use and the accessories included.
The DGCCRF states that the legal guarantee of conformity applies to second-hand purchases from a professional seller, but not to sales between private individuals. The seller’s status therefore affects the options available to you if there’s a fault.
Identify the seller before buying and keep a copy of the listing, the condition description and any written messages.
The French ministry responsible for ecology says that eligibility for the scheme depends, among other things, on the product, the repair and whether you use an approved repairer. A breakdown alone doesn’t establish that you’re eligible.
Describe the fault to the repairer and confirm that the repair qualifies before factoring the bonus into your decision.
According to the French ministry responsible for ecology, the durability index has applied to televisions since 8 January 2025 and washing machines since 8 April 2025. For another type of appliance, check which index applies to its category rather than assuming this information will always be available.
The French ministry responsible for ecology lists laptops, lawnmowers, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners and pressure washers among the products covered. Check the repairability index criteria when comparing appliances in the same category.
No. According to the French ministry responsible for ecology, you must use an approved repairer and check that both the product and the repair meet the scheme’s conditions. Confirm that the specific repair qualifies before deciding whether to repair or replace the appliance.
In France, according to the DGCCRF, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to second-hand or refurbished goods bought from a professional seller, but not to sales between private individuals. If there’s a fault, first check the seller’s status and keep any documents describing the appliance you received.
No. The DGCCRF says a refurbished product is a second-hand item whose functions have been fully tested and which has been repaired or restored to working order if necessary. Ask what checks have been carried out on the specific appliance and read the description of its condition carefully.