Before replacing a household appliance, check whether repairing it is still a worthwhile option. If you choose a new appliance, compare the index that applies to its category and look at the detailed criteria. For a refurbished appliance, check its condition, the tests carried out, the seller and the guarantees.
If your appliance has broken down, check which guarantees still apply and have the repair assessed before deciding to replace it. For certain appliances and faults, the Repair Bonus scheme presented by ecosystem may also be an option.
For a washing machine or television, the durability index lets you check criteria relating to repairability and stated reliability. For a dishwasher or vacuum cleaner covered by the repairability index, check the repair criteria instead. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition and the DGCCRF distinguish between these categories in the information they publish.
If you’re considering a refurbished appliance, ask what tests have been carried out, what condition the specific item is in and which guarantees apply. The DGCCRF explains that a refurbished product must have been tested and restored if necessary.
After a breakdown or wear and tear, start by finding out whether the appliance can be repaired. If you need to replace it, the information to compare will depend on whether you choose a new or refurbished appliance.
| What matters to you | What to check | Who this applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Repair before replacing | Check which guarantees apply and have the fault assessed. If you’re considering the Repair Bonus, confirm that both the appliance and the repair qualify. | My appliance has broken down, but I want to know whether it can still be used after a repair. Around 31% of consumers would make this their top priority. |
| Compare new appliances | Find the index that applies to the category and model, then check its detailed criteria rather than relying on the overall score alone. | If I have to buy new, I want to compare repairability information and, where the index includes it, stated reliability. This would be the priority for around 31% of consumers. |
| Assess refurbished appliances | Check the condition of the specific item for sale, the tests and restoration work carried out, the seller’s identity and the guarantees. | I’m considering a refurbished appliance, as long as I can clearly understand what checks have been carried out on the item being offered. Around 23% of consumers would put this need first. |
| Plan for a future repair | Look for parts that match the full model reference and check how long they’re stated to remain available, as well as the service terms. | Before choosing a model, I want to know which parts and services I could turn to in the future. This would be a priority for around 15% of consumers. |
In France, the Ministry for Ecological Transition states that this index has applied to new televisions since 8 January 2025 and new washing machines since 8 April 2025. This doesn’t mean that every appliance category carries the same label.
Check the product’s exact category before looking for the index that applies to it.
A score on its own doesn’t show which criteria matter for the way you’ll use the appliance. Depending on the index, the details may include documentation, disassembly, spare parts or stated reliability.
Check how the model’s score is calculated and focus on the criteria that meet your repair or maintenance needs.
The DGCCRF explains that requirements and availability periods vary depending on the categories and parts involved. A brand’s reputation doesn’t confirm that a part is available for a particular model.
Search for the full model reference with the manufacturer or importer, then check which parts you need and how to order them.
As the DGCCRF explains, a refurbished appliance is a second-hand product whose functions must have been tested and which must have been restored if necessary. The condition can vary from one item to another.
Ask the seller for a description of the specific item, details of the checks carried out and information about the guarantees that apply.
A brand’s stated services can help guide your checks, but your choice depends on the appliance’s exact model reference and the parts you may need.
A brand to consider if the stated length of time spare parts remain available is important to you.
A brand to consider if you want to find information about repairs and support before you buy.
A brand to consider if identifying parts by product number and accessing repair services are important to your choice.
According to the Ministry for Ecological Transition, the durability index has applied to new televisions since 8 January 2025 and new washing machines since 8 April 2025. For another category, check which label applies rather than automatically looking for this index.
The DGCCRF lists vacuum cleaners and dishwashers among the categories covered by the repairability index. It also lists high-pressure cleaners, laptops and electric lawn mowers. For a new washing machine or television, look for the durability index.
No. A score doesn’t replace checking that the parts are available for the exact model. Look at the index details, then check how long the parts you need are stated to remain available and how to order them.
Ask for a description of the specific item, the tests carried out and any restoration work completed. Also check the seller’s identity and the guarantees that apply. The DGCCRF distinguishes between the checks required for a product to be described as refurbished and simply presenting it as a second-hand product.
No. According to ecosystem, the appliance and fault must be eligible, the appliance must no longer be covered by a guarantee, and the work must be carried out by a QualiRépar repairer. Confirm these conditions before deciding that repair is the right solution.