Who is this choice for?

Households looking to get their appliance working again

You use this appliance every day and want to know whether a professional repair could keep it in service, rather than replacing it as a matter of course.

Shoppers considering refurbished

You need to replace the appliance and are open to buying refurbished, provided its condition, the tests carried out and the professional seller’s identity are clearly stated.

Shoppers whose needs have changed

The breakdown has also prompted you to reconsider capacity, noise, energy use or installation requirements before choosing a new appliance.

What should you consider first?

Your decision depends first on whether repairing your current appliance makes sense, and then on what a replacement needs to offer your household. Each of these three options suits different needs.

Professional repair

Consider this if: the appliance still suits your needs and you’re happy with the repair quote.

Keep in mind: the Repair Bonus isn’t automatic. ecosystem only offers it for eligible appliances and faults, subject to the terms of the QualiRépar scheme.

Refurbished appliance

Consider this if: you need a replacement and can find an appliance with specifications that suit your needs.

Keep in mind: condition and repairs can vary from one item to another. The DGCCRF recommends checking the information for the specific product being sold.

New appliance

Consider this if: you also need a different capacity, energy-use level or installation set-up.

Keep in mind: according to ADEME, the rating to check depends on the product category. It doesn’t replace checking that the appliance has the features you need at home.

What matters to you What to check Who this suits
Repair your current appliance Ask a QualiRépar repairer for a quote and check whether your appliance and fault are eligible for the Repair Bonus. I want to get an appliance that still suits me working again, without rushing into replacing it; around 40% of consumers would prioritise this repair.
Choose refurbished Check the model number and condition of the item being sold, the tests carried out, and the dimensions and connections required. If I need to replace the appliance, I want to know exactly what I’ll receive before agreeing to buy refurbished. Nearly 30% of consumers would put this verifiable replacement first.
Choose a new appliance to suit your needs Compare capacity, the energy label and installation requirements. Check the durability or repairability rating that applies to the category. My capacity or energy-use needs have changed, and the new appliance needs to meet them. For around 30% of consumers, this would be their replacement priority.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Replacing an appliance without looking into a repair

    A breakdown doesn’t necessarily mean you need to buy another appliance. According to ecosystem, the Repair Bonus may be deducted from the bill if the appliance, fault and repair meet the scheme’s conditions.

    Ask a QualiRépar repairer for a quote and check whether you’re eligible before comparing repair with replacement.

    Replacing an appliance also means arranging delivery and installation, and deciding what to do with the old one.

  • Relying on the new-model product listing when buying refurbished

    A product listing for a new model won’t necessarily describe the condition of the refurbished item on offer or the parts that have been replaced. The DGCCRF states that refurbished products must undergo functionality tests before being offered for sale.

    Check the exact model number, stated condition, tests carried out, accessories and installation requirements for the item being sold.

  • Confusing a commercial guarantee with your legal rights

    A commercial guarantee is optional, and its terms depend on the contract. It’s in addition to your legal guarantees, as the French Ministry of the Economy points out.

    Before accepting an extended guarantee, check its length, exclusions and claims process, and make sure you distinguish it from the legal guarantee that applies to your purchase.

  • Making your decision based on just one rating

    A durability or repairability rating alone won’t tell you whether the appliance’s capacity, connections, noise level and energy use are right for your household.

    Check the rating for the relevant category, then compare the energy label and the model’s specifications with your actual needs.

Brands to consider

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Frequently asked questions

Does the Repair Bonus cover every household appliance fault?

No. According to ecosystem, the appliance must, among other conditions, be owned by a household, have been bought in France, and no longer be covered by a guarantee or insurance. The fault must also be eligible. The repair must be carried out by a QualiRépar repairer, so ask them to confirm that you meet the conditions when you get a quote.

What should I check before buying a refurbished appliance?

Check the details of the specific item being sold, not just those of the new model. The DGCCRF says refurbished products must be tested before sale. Check the model number, stated condition, accessories and the specifications needed for installation.

Does a refurbished appliance sold by a professional come with a legal guarantee?

Yes. In France, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to refurbished goods sold by a professional to a private customer, according to the French Ministry of the Economy. Remember that this legal protection is separate from any optional commercial guarantee offered with the appliance.

Should I look for a durability or repairability rating on a new appliance?

It depends on the product category. According to ADEME, televisions placed on the market since 8 January 2025 and washing machines since April 2025 must display a durability rating instead of a repairability rating. The repairability rating remains the reference for other categories, including vacuum cleaners and dishwashers. Also check the capacity, energy label and installation requirements of the model you’re considering.