When an appliance breaks down, first check whether it’s still under warranty and whether it can be repaired before replacing it. If you do need to buy a new one, compare the information available for each model: the durability rating for washing machines, the repairability rating for dishwashers or vacuum cleaners, and details about parts and maintenance. Refurbished appliances are another option, provided their condition, accessories and warranties are clearly described.
If your appliance has just broken down, check its warranty and overall condition before deciding whether to repair or replace it. ADEME points out that a breakdown doesn’t necessarily mean you need to buy a new appliance.
When comparing models in France, look for the durability rating for washing machines or the repairability rating for dishwashers. The French ministries responsible for environmental policy distinguish between these two categories.
A previously used appliance may be worth considering if the seller clearly describes its condition, the checks carried out, the accessories included and the warranties that apply. The French National Consumer Institute points out that a refurbished product has already been sold and used.
Consider this: if the warranty or the appliance’s condition makes it worth exploring this option before replacing it.
Bear in mind: the decision depends on the fault, the parts required and the appliance’s overall condition. The Repair Bonus requires, among other things, a certified repairer and doesn’t apply to appliances still covered by a warranty.
Consider this: if a repair no longer meets your needs and you can compare several models in the same category.
Bear in mind: regulated ratings don’t cover every category and can’t guarantee an appliance’s lifespan.
Consider this: if the condition of the used appliance, the checks carried out and the accessories included are clearly described.
Bear in mind: any commercial warranty has its own terms and conditions; it doesn’t replace your legal rights.
| What matters | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Repair or replace | Check whether the appliance is still under warranty, then ask for an assessment of the fault and its overall condition. | I don’t want to rule out a repair if my appliance could still be useful; this could be the top priority for around 36% of consumers concerned. |
| Documented lifespan | Compare the durability rating for washing machines or the repairability rating for dishwashers and vacuum cleaners. For other categories, look at the model’s parts and documentation. | Before replacing my appliance, I want to be able to assess the model’s maintenance and repair options; this could be a priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Use and maintenance | Check that the capacity suits your needs, review the maintenance instructions and make sure you can access the parts that need looking after. | I need an appliance that suits my everyday needs and whose maintenance instructions I can follow; around 21% of consumers could put this first. |
| Condition of refurbished appliances | Check the description of the appliance’s condition, the checks carried out, the accessories and the warranties that apply. | I’m happy to buy an appliance that’s been used before if I know exactly what I’ll receive; this could be the top criterion for around 14% of consumers. |
A breakdown doesn’t necessarily mean the whole appliance needs replacing. The Repair Bonus has different conditions from those of an existing warranty.
First, check which warranties apply, then get the fault assessed. For the Repair Bonus, check in particular that your appliance is eligible and that you use a certified repairer.
According to the French ministries responsible for environmental policy, washing machines have a durability rating, while dishwashers and vacuum cleaners have a repairability rating. These ratings don’t apply to ovens or fridges.
Identify the exact category before comparing models. If neither rating applies to the appliance, look at information about its parts, maintenance and servicing.
Service-Public.fr distinguishes between optional commercial warranties and legal warranties. The stated duration alone doesn’t tell you which repairs are covered.
Read the written terms and conditions, paying particular attention to parts, labour, call-out charges, exclusions and how to make a claim.
A refurbished appliance has been used before. The term alone doesn’t tell you the condition of each component or which accessories are included.
Choose a listing that clearly details the condition, checks carried out, what’s included and the warranties that apply, from a seller you can identify.
Worth considering for a large appliance if access to genuine parts and servicing is an important factor in your decision.
Worth considering, particularly for a dishwasher, if the stated availability of spare parts is important to you.
Worth considering if you want to look for genuine parts and support using your appliance’s model number.
No. According to the French Ministry of the Economy, it applies in particular to appliances bought in France that are no longer under warranty or insurance, have a fault resulting from normal use and are taken to a certified repairer. Check the conditions for your appliance before arranging a repair.
In France, check the durability rating for a washing machine and the repairability rating for a dishwasher. Vacuum cleaners also have a repairability rating. This distinction is set out in information published by the French ministries responsible for environmental policy.
No. A rating helps you compare models in the relevant category against defined criteria, but it can’t predict how long the appliance you buy will last. Also look at maintenance requirements and information about spare parts.
Check who the seller is, the appliance’s stated condition, any checks or refurbishment work carried out, the accessories and the warranties that apply. As Service-Public.fr points out, any commercial warranty is separate from your legal rights. Read its terms and don’t confuse them with those of your legal warranties.