Before replacing a broken vacuum cleaner, check which warranty applies and find out whether it can be repaired. If you decide to buy a new one, compare the repairability and parts availability of the specific model, then choose an upright cylinder, a cordless stick or a robot vacuum to suit the way you clean and the level of maintenance you’re happy with.
If your vacuum cleaner has stopped working, getting a quote and checking whether the part is available can help you compare repairing it with replacing it. ADEME recommends considering repair before getting rid of an appliance.
If you’re replacing your appliance, the specific model’s repairability rating and access to parts matter just as much as how you’ll use it day to day. According to France’s Ministry of the Economy, the rating shows how easy or difficult it is to repair a product covered by the scheme.
Switching from a cylinder vacuum to a cordless stick or robot changes what you need to check: bags and filters for a cylinder, the battery for a cordless stick, or whether parts are compatible with your robot’s series. Check these details for the exact model you’re planning to buy.
Start by comparing repair with replacement. If you’re buying new, choose a type that suits your everyday needs, then check the specific model’s repairability and maintenance requirements. You can’t tell these things from the type of vacuum cleaner alone.
| What matters | What to check | Who this is for |
|---|---|---|
| Repair before replacing | Check which warranty applies, then ask for a quote and check whether the part is available. If the warranty has expired, ask a QualiRépar repairer whether the repair is eligible for the Repair Bonus. | If my vacuum cleaner is broken, I want to know whether it can be repaired before I buy another one; around 36% of consumers would prioritise repair first. |
| Repairability of a new appliance | Compare the repairability ratings of the models you’re considering and look for the parts you’ll need for your chosen type, such as bags or filters for a cylinder vacuum with a bag. | For my next vacuum cleaner, I want to be able to explore solutions if it breaks down in future; nearly 29% of consumers would put the repairability of their new appliance at the top of their list. |
| Using a cordless stick vacuum | Check the battery life in the mode you expect to use and find the replacement battery reference compatible with the exact model. | If I often clean small areas, a cordless stick’s manoeuvrability matters to me, but I also want to plan for maintenance; around 21% of consumers would prioritise this type of use. |
| Automating cleaning with a robot | Check which battery, brush and filter references are compatible with the series and model you’ve chosen. | My main aim is to automate floor cleaning without choosing incompatible parts; around 14% of consumers would make this their main priority. |
According to France’s Ministry of the Economy, the score out of 10 tells you about repairability. It doesn’t guarantee that the appliance won’t break down or that a particular part will be available straight away.
Compare the rating for the model you’re considering, then look separately for the parts that matter to you.
A breakdown doesn’t automatically mean buying new is the best option. If the warranty has expired, the possibility of a repair and whether it might qualify for the Repair Bonus could affect your decision.
Ask for a quote and check whether the part is available before comparing the two options.
iRobot says that some Roomba batteries are only suitable for specific series. Likewise, a removable battery in a cordless stick doesn’t necessarily mean that any replacement battery will fit that model.
Note down the full model number and check with the manufacturer which batteries and consumables are compatible.
A model with a bag needs the right type of bag, and filters also need maintenance according to the instructions for that appliance.
Check the reference numbers for consumables and the replacement instructions before you buy.
Worth looking at if you’re considering a cordless stick vacuum and want to find parts or a repair solution for a specific model.
Worth considering if you want to find vacuum cleaner parts using the appliance’s exact reference number.
Worth looking at if the stated parts availability period is a factor in choosing a new vacuum cleaner.
Worth considering if you want to check filters, batteries or other genuine parts for a vacuum cleaner by model reference.
Worth looking at if you’re considering a robot vacuum and battery and accessory compatibility is important to you.
These models let you compare a cylinder vacuum with a bag and several cordless sticks if you decide to replace your appliance. Compare their design and maintenance requirements, then check the parts and repairability rating for the specific model you choose.
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Worth considering if you want to stick with a cylinder vacuum for everyday cleaning. This model uses a bag, so check the reference numbers for bags and filters, as well as which parts are available for the EB61C4OG.
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Worth looking at if you prefer a cordless stick with a removable battery. The stated battery life is up to 60 minutes, although the figure isn’t broken down by mode here. Also check which replacement battery is compatible with the UV1.
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Worth looking at if you want a cordless stick with a removable battery for hard floors and pet hair. The stated battery life is 50 minutes; check how long it lasts in the mode you’re interested in and find the reference number for a compatible battery.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a cordless stick with a removable battery. The title states two speeds and 45 kPa suction; compare the battery life in the mode you’ll use and check which parts are compatible with the V14.
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Worth looking at if you want an emptying station to reduce how often you need to handle the vacuum’s dust container. This model comes with a station that uses a bag, so check which consumables are compatible and the specifications of the variant before you buy.
According to France’s Ministry of the Economy and the orders published on Légifrance, household mains-powered and cordless vacuum cleaners, as well as robot vacuums, are among the categories covered in France. The score out of 10 tells you about the model’s repairability; it doesn’t guarantee its lifespan or that a part will be available straight away.
A vacuum cleaner that’s no longer under warranty may qualify for the Repair Bonus if the breakdown and repair meet the scheme’s conditions. Before comparing the quote with the cost of replacing it, ask a QualiRépar repairer whether your appliance and the proposed repair are eligible.
To claim under France’s legal guarantee of conformity, contact the professional seller, not just the brand. France’s Ministry of the Economy says this guarantee covers new, second-hand and refurbished goods. Keep your proof of purchase and the appliance’s reference number.
No. Always check the appliance’s full reference number and the battery’s stated compatibility. For example, iRobot lists a battery for Roomba e, j and i series; that doesn’t mean it’s interchangeable with batteries for other series.
If it still works, consider donating it or selling it. If it’s no longer usable, take it to an electrical equipment collection point. ADEME lists options including take-back by a retailer, in-store collection and drop-off at the dedicated facility at a waste disposal centre.