Keep an appliance that works if it will fit in its new space, can be brought into the property and has compatible connections. If not, look for a suitable model before arranging delivery. If your kitchen may change again, a freestanding appliance gives you more flexibility than one built into a unit. And if your stay is temporary, consider renting too, checking the contract length, services and return terms.
Check whether your fridge or dishwasher will fit in its intended space, can be brought through the property and can be opened without obstructing the way. The same applies to a washing machine going into a new utility area.
You’ll want to coordinate the appliance’s arrival, delivery to the room, any installation and collection of your old appliance. Don’t assume all these services are included in one package.
You may be reluctant to buy an appliance that’s meant to stay for a long time. Renting could be an option, provided the contract length, services and return arrangements suit your circumstances.
First, make sure the appliance can actually be installed and used in your new home. Keeping, buying and renting each suit different situations.
Consider this if: the appliance works and is suitable for its new location.
Bear in mind: you’ll keep its existing features too, and need to follow any model-specific instructions before using it again.
Consider this if: your old model is no longer suitable and you need a new appliance that will work well with your home’s layout for the long term.
Plan for: delivery and installation services won’t cover any necessary work to your home.
Consider this if: your stay is temporary or its length is uncertain, and you can find an offer that includes the appliance you need.
Check: contract lengths, included services and return terms vary from one offer to another.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions and access | Compare the appliance’s dimensions with the space, delivery route and clearance needed to open it. For an integrated appliance, check the housing and door panel too. | In a narrow kitchen, I need to know the appliance will fit through the access route and that I can open the door once it’s in place; around 36% of consumers prioritise this physical fit. |
| Connections and installation | Check the model’s instructions for the connections it needs and compare them with the existing fittings. Confirm separately whether any work to the unit or property is required. | If the space isn’t ready for my appliance, I need to arrange any work before it’s put into use; around 29% of consumers prioritise compatible connections. |
| Delivery and collection | Confirm the delivery slot, delivery to the room, installation and collection options for your address, and flag any access difficulties. | After moving in, I want to spend as little time as possible without an appliance I need every day; around 21% of consumers prioritise coordinating delivery and installation. |
| Length of stay | If you’re considering renting, check the contract length, included services and return terms before comparing it with buying. | If I don’t know how long I’ll be staying, I want to choose an option that suits my plans; this is the main concern for around 14% of consumers. |
An appliance may fit in its final position but not through a doorway, up the stairs or in the lift. There may also not be enough room to open its door.
Measure the space, delivery route and door clearance before choosing a model.
Electrolux France says its service connects appliances to compliant installations, but doesn’t include plumbing, electrical or carpentry work. An integrated appliance may also depend on the unit and its door panel.
Confirm what the service covers and whether the space is suitable. If work is needed, ask a qualified professional to assess it.
You may need to arrange this work separately from delivery.
Collection from your home depends on the retailer’s terms and how your old appliance is prepared. It isn’t automatically included when you choose a new appliance.
Confirm collection when you place your order and follow the retailer’s instructions for making the appliance ready.
If you haven’t arranged collection, you’ll need to decide where to keep your old appliance and how to dispose of it.
Contract length, support, delivery and return terms vary between offers.
Check the terms for the appliance and your address, then make sure the contract length suits how long you expect to stay.
A brand’s resources can help you check the details for a specific model, but you’ll still need to compare its instructions and specifications with your home.
Worth exploring for manuals and installation guidance for appliances including fridges, dishwashers and washing machines.
Worth exploring if pre-installation requirements and the scope of the delivery and installation service are important to your choice.
Worth exploring for guides and manuals covering several types of appliance you may need when moving house.
Worth exploring, in particular, to compare freestanding and integrated dishwashers.
These fridge-freezers and dishwashers could meet two different needs after a move. Start by choosing the type of appliance you need, then check each model against the space available and the requirements for installation in your home.
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Worth considering as a replacement dishwasher if your new kitchen has a suitable space for an integrated model.
Energy rating A. Check the housing, door panel, connections and door clearance before ordering.
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Worth considering if your current fridge-freezer isn’t suitable for its new location.
Check its dimensions, the route into the room, door clearance and the space required around it, as set out in the manual.
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A freestanding model is worth considering if you don’t have a suitable housing and door panel for an integrated appliance.
Energy rating E. Measure the space and check the water, drainage and electrical connections before buying.
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Worth looking at if you need a fridge-freezer and want to check whether it will fit in the available space.
The model name indicates Low Frost and a reversible door. Check the requirements for reversing the door, installation clearances and the product’s energy label.
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Compare it with other freestanding models if you’re replacing your dishwasher after moving in.
Energy rating C and stated noise level of 41 dB. Check the available depth, delivery access and required connections.
Don’t assume it can. Electrolux France says its service connects an appliance to a compliant installation, but doesn’t include plumbing, electrical or carpentry work. For an integrated model, make sure the unit and door panel are checked too.
In France, the Ministry for Ecological Transition describes a ‘one-for-one’ take-back service for an old appliance when you buy a new one of the same type. For collection from your home, check with the retailer what applies to your order and how to prepare the appliance before delivery.
Follow the instructions from your chosen retailer before they arrive. These may include disconnecting and draining a washing machine, or defrosting and cleaning a fridge-freezer.
It could be, if the rental period suits your stay and the included services meet your needs. Check the return terms too: the plans offered by Boulanger Location and Orent differ.
Start by comparing models with a capacity and installation type that suit your kitchen. The ADEME says the energy label can then help you compare factors including energy rating, consumption in kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle and noise class.