Households mindful of running costs
If you’re replacing an appliance you use frequently, compare the consumption figures for models in the same category. The energy efficiency class alone won’t predict your bill.
Who are these choices for?
People looking for an appliance that lasts
You can check information about maintenance, spare parts and any relevant ratings rather than relying on a single feature. For a new washing machine, the durability index is a benchmark introduced by the French Ministry of the Economy.
Households weighing up repair versus replacement
If your appliance has broken down, a diagnosis and quote can help you decide what to do. The Repair Bonus may be available, but only if the appliance, fault and repairer meet the conditions of the scheme outlined by the French ministry responsible for the environment.
What should you compare before deciding?
First, check whether your current appliance can be repaired. If you decide to replace it, compare models in the same category with features that suit your household.
| What matters | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Energy use | For appliances in the same category, check the energy efficiency class and consumption figures, including the units and measurement conditions shown on the relevant label. | If my appliance is used frequently, I want to understand what the figures mean for how I use it, rather than relying on the letter alone. Around 42% of consumers put this first. |
| Suitability for your household | Check the capacity or volume you need, then consider the dimensions, noise level and features that matter for your installation. | An appliance must fit the space available and meet your household’s needs. For around 33% of consumers, this comes before other criteria. |
| Lifespan and repair | Before replacing an appliance, ask for a diagnosis and quote. For a new washing machine, check the durability index and what it measures. | If an appliance breaks down, I’d rather know whether I can keep using it. When buying a new one, I want to be able to check the available information about its lifespan. This is a priority for around 25% of consumers. |
Three mistakes to avoid
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Comparing energy efficiency letters across different categories
The DGCCRF explains that the energy label scale varies by category. So you can’t directly compare a washing machine with a fridge based on the letter alone, or compare labels that use different scales.
Compare appliances in the same category and check the figures, units and symbols on their labels.
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Assuming the durability index guarantees a repair
For the washing machines covered, the index describes repairability and reliability criteria, according to the French Ministry of the Economy. It doesn’t tell you whether a future fault can be repaired.
Check the details of the model’s index. If an appliance has already broken down, get a diagnosis and a quote.
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Ruling out repair without checking the fault
The Repair Bonus isn’t automatic. According to the French ministry responsible for the environment and ecosystem, eligibility depends on factors including the appliance, the fault, whether it is still under warranty and whether the repair is carried out by an approved repairer.
Check how much warranty cover is left and review the scheme’s conditions. Then compare the repair quote with new appliances that meet your needs.
Brands to consider
There are no brand profiles to show in this section.
Fridge freezers and tumble dryers on Joybuy
These models are intended for replacing a fridge freezer or tumble dryer. Compare each appliance with models in the same category and check its energy label before you choose.
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Candy CFQQ5T817EPS, 467 L fridge freezer
Worth considering if you’re replacing a fridge freezer and need a capacity of 467 L. This model is listed with four doors, Total No Frost technology and an E energy efficiency class. Check its dimensions, the space needed for installation and the figures on its energy label.
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Haier HTW5618ENMG, 360 L fridge freezer
Consider this model if a capacity of 360 L suits your household. This three-door fridge freezer is listed with Total No Frost, an E energy efficiency class, Wi-Fi and My Zone. Before choosing, check its overall dimensions and the energy label details for this model.
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Hisense FTN461WCE1, 467 L fridge freezer
You can compare this 467 L model with other fridge freezers that offer the capacity you need. It is listed with Total No Frost and an E energy efficiency class. Check the compartment layout, dimensions and figures on its energy label.
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Hotpoint CHD84MWBSEE, 8 kg heat pump tumble dryer
Check that its stated 8 kg capacity suits the size of your loads. This model is listed in energy efficiency class C; read the figures on its label to compare it with other tumble dryers. The product description says spare parts are available for 15 years. Check which parts are covered and the terms and conditions before factoring this into a future repair.
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Comfee' CD10EHP05W-HR, 10 kg heat pump tumble dryer
If you’re looking for a stated capacity of 10 kg, check that it suits your usual loads and the space available. This model is listed in energy efficiency class D, with UV Light, Refresh and Quick Dry functions. Compare the figures on its label with those of other tumble dryers rather than relying on the letter alone.
Frequently asked questions
Which appliances carry an energy label in France?
The French Ministry of the Economy lists fridges, washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers, ovens, cooker hoods and air conditioners among the categories covered. The scale and information to check depend on the specific category, so look at the label for the appliance you’re considering.
Which rating should you check for a new washing machine?
In France, the durability index replaced the repairability index for front-loading and top-loading washing machines on 8 April 2025, according to the French Ministry of the Economy. Check the score out of 10 and the details of the model’s repairability and reliability criteria. The score doesn’t guarantee how long the machine will last.
Can the Repair Bonus apply before you replace an appliance?
Yes, if the appliance and fault are eligible, the appliance is no longer covered by a warranty, and the repair is carried out by an approved repairer. The French ministry responsible for the environment says the discount is applied directly to the bill. Ask for a diagnosis and check the conditions that apply to your appliance.
Is the letter on the energy label enough to estimate energy use?
No. Compare the figures too, including their units and the conditions shown for appliances in the same category. Then check that their capacity suits the way you’ll use them. The European EPREL database, introduced by Your Europe, can provide additional energy information about the model.