Households hoping to keep their appliance
You’d rather explore a repair before replacing the appliance. The decision depends on the fault, whether the necessary parts are available and the quote for your model.
Who is this decision for?
Households that need to get their laundry or dishes done again quickly
Compare the repairer’s available appointment with the availability, delivery and installation options for another appliance. Neither route is necessarily the quickest solution for your fault.
Buyers thinking about how long a replacement will last
If you need to replace your appliance, check the information for the specific model, including the relevant index, spare parts and warranty terms, rather than relying on a general claim about the brand.
What should you check after a breakdown?
First, find out whether your appliance can be repaired. Then compare that option with the practicalities of buying a new or refurbished replacement.
| What matters | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Whether it can be repaired | Ask for a diagnosis and a quote for the exact model, and confirm that the necessary parts are available. | If my appliance breaks down, I want to know what’s wrong before deciding against a repair. Around 33% of consumers prioritise the option of repairing it. |
| Getting back to using an appliance | Compare the repair appointment and any wait for a part with the delivery and installation options for a replacement. | When the laundry or washing-up starts to pile up, I mainly want to know when I’ll be able to use an appliance again. Speed is the top priority for around 25% of consumers. |
| How long a replacement will last | Check the washing machine’s durability index or the dishwasher’s repairability index, then look up information about the model’s parts. | If I replace my appliance, I want to be able to assess its durability or repairability using information specific to the model. Around 25% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Condition of a refurbished appliance | Check the model, the tests carried out, the stated condition, the accessories and the seller’s identity. | I might consider a refurbished appliance, provided I know exactly what has been tested and the condition it’s being sold in. This is the top priority for around 17% of consumers. |
If you’re replacing an appliance in France, the two indices cover different sets of criteria. According to the Ministry of the Economy, the durability index has applied to washing machines since 8 April 2025, while dishwashers are covered by the repairability index. Neither index diagnoses a fault with the appliance you already own.
Mistakes to avoid
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Replacing the appliance before finding out what’s wrong
A breakdown alone won’t tell you whether a part can be replaced. The DGCCRF states that, for a fixed-price repair, the professional must specify details including the cause of the fault, the proposed work and the parts to be replaced.
Make a note of the exact appliance reference and ask for a diagnosis, a quote and an estimated timeframe before comparing your options.
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Assuming you’ll qualify for the Repair Bonus
According to ecosystem, the scheme requires, among other things, an eligible fault, an identifiable appliance and work carried out by a QualiRépar repairer. It doesn’t cover every repair, including work relating solely to the appliance’s appearance or maintenance.
Check the conditions that apply to your appliance and its fault before factoring the scheme into your decision.
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Treating both indices as the same rating
In France, the durability index for a washing machine and the repairability index for a dishwasher cover different sets of criteria. Comparing them directly would overlook this difference.
Compare models within the relevant category, check the details behind their index scores and separately confirm that the parts you need are available.
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Choosing a refurbished appliance based on its label alone
The word ‘refurbished’ doesn’t tell you the condition of the specific appliance on offer or which accessories are included. The Ministry of the Economy explains that a refurbished item is a second-hand product whose functions have been tested.
Ask for details of the appliance being sold, the tests carried out and the accessories included. Then check the seller, warranty and connections you’ll need.
Brands to consider
There are no brands to feature in this section.
A washing machine to consider on Joybuy
This front-loading washing machine is one option to consider if a diagnosis leads you to think about replacing your washing machine. It isn’t a replacement for a dishwasher and, on its own, it won’t help you decide whether to repair or buy.
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Electrolux EWF1410N2, 10 kg front-loading washing machine
Worth considering if you’re replacing a washing machine and need a 10 kg capacity. The product name mentions steam, TimeSave and an Inverter motor. Check the dimensions and connections you’ll need at home, as well as the durability index and parts information for this specific model.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim the Repair Bonus for my washing machine or dishwasher?
Yes, if the appliance and fault meet the conditions of the scheme run by ecosystem and the repair is carried out by a QualiRépar professional. Before going ahead, check whether the repair may be covered by a warranty, what kind of fault it is and whether the work is eligible.
Which repairs aren’t covered by the Repair Bonus?
According to ecosystem, purely cosmetic work, maintenance and some faults linked to the appliance’s operating environment are among the exclusions. The repairer can confirm whether the diagnosed fault and proposed work meet the scheme’s conditions.
Which index should I check when replacing an appliance in France?
For a washing machine covered by the scheme, check the durability index and its details; for a dishwasher, check the repairability index. The Ministry of the Economy states that the durability index has applied to washing machines since 8 April 2025. The two indices shouldn’t be interpreted as measuring the same thing.
How can I check whether spare parts are available?
Look up the information using the exact appliance reference and the part you need. The DGCCRF lists different minimum periods depending on the appliance category and parts: certain parts for domestic washing machines and washer-dryers are covered for 10 years after the model is no longer sold, while parts for domestic dishwashers are covered for 7 or 10 years, depending on the part.
Is a refurbished appliance bought from a professional covered by a warranty?
Yes. As the Ministry of the Economy explains, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to a refurbished appliance bought from a professional seller. It doesn’t apply to private sales. Before you buy, also check the stated condition, the tests carried out and the seller’s identity.