Households looking to avoid an unnecessary purchase
If the appliance could still be useful, ask for a diagnosis and a quote, and check your warranty and any available support before deciding.
Who is this guide for?
Households without an essential appliance
If being without a fridge or washing machine is making everyday life difficult, compare the quoted repair time with how long it would take to replace it.
Households choosing a replacement
If repair doesn’t suit your needs, compare a new appliance with a second-life option based on how you’ll use it, its energy consumption and the condition of the model on offer.
What factors can sway your decision?
Professional repair
Consider this: when a diagnosis and quote give you a clear idea of the cost and timescale for your appliance.
Weigh up: the part itself or its delivery time could change the quote and make the repair impractical.
Self-repair workshop or Repair Café
Consider this: if a local workshop accepts your appliance and the repair is suited to your skills.
Weigh up: the workshop can’t guarantee an immediate diagnosis or that the required part will be available.
New appliance
Consider this: if repair isn’t practical at a cost or within a timescale that works for you.
Weigh up: compare running costs and relevant durability information, not just the purchase price.
Refurbished or reused appliance
Consider this: if the condition and features of the appliance being sold meet your needs.
Weigh up: check the item’s description, the seller and the terms of sale rather than relying on the new model’s product information.
| What matters | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| The actual cost of the repair | Warranty, diagnosis, itemised quote and any Repair Bonus that may apply to the appliance and repair. | If I want to avoid unnecessary spending, I compare the net cost of the quote with that of a suitable replacement. Around 36% of consumers put cost at the heart of their decision. |
| Time until the appliance is working again | The proposed repair date and whether a part compatible with the exact model reference is available. | When I rely on an appliance every day, I first consider how long I might be without it, whether I have it repaired or replace it. Around 29% of consumers prioritise how soon the appliance will be back in service. |
| How you’ll use the replacement and its running costs | Suitable capacity and dimensions; energy consumption shown on a comparable basis and the relevant rating for that category. | If I need to buy an appliance, I want it to suit my needs and provide clear information about energy use and durability. Around 21% of consumers prioritise suitability and long-term use. |
| The condition of a second-life appliance | The condition of the item being sold, the seller’s identity, its features and the terms of sale. | If I’m looking for a second-life option, I check the condition of the item on offer rather than assuming it matches the new model. Around 14% of consumers prioritise this option. |
Pitfalls to avoid
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Treating a percentage of the new price as a rule for replacing an appliance
The relevant cost depends on the fault, the appliance’s condition and the price of a comparable replacement. In June 2025, ADEME reported that 30% of a product’s value was the average price people considered acceptable to repair a damaged appliance. This figure reflects people’s views; it isn’t a break-even point for your appliance.
Ask for a quote and compare the options for your appliance before making a decision.
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Assuming the Repair Bonus applies to any quote
Your warranty or insurance, whether the fault and appliance are eligible, and the repairer’s accreditation can all affect the amount you actually pay.
Check the scheme’s conditions and ask the professional to confirm the discount that applies to your repair.
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Comparing durability ratings or energy classes without checking what they cover
The durability index applies to washing machines, among other appliances, while other categories may use a different index. For appliances with cycles, the stated energy consumption is based on a reference measure.
Compare appliances in the same category, their energy consumption units and the relevant index for each one.
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Choosing a refurbished appliance based only on the new model’s product information
The stated features and condition must match the item actually being sold.
Check the item itself, its key features, the seller’s identity and the terms of sale.
Brands to consider, depending on the appliance
Bosch
Worth considering in France if you’re looking for repair services or parts for a Bosch washing machine, dishwasher or oven.
- Bosch Electroménager France says its technicians and some authorised service centres are accredited with the QualiRépar label.
- Check whether the fault is eligible, whether the service provider is accredited and whether the part is available for your exact model reference.
Miele
Worth considering for a domestic washing machine if access to parts and service information is important to your decision.
- Miele France offers washing machine parts; its product information for the WCA120 WCS 8kg Active describes an 8 kg model.
- Check that a part is compatible with your appliance’s exact model reference. This information doesn’t prove that it’s more reliable than other models.
Electrolux
Worth considering for washing machine repairs, particularly if you’re looking for a repair service or parts.
- Electrolux France describes a repair service and a spare parts catalogue for washing machines.
- Local availability, compatibility, timescales and quotes depend on the appliance in question.
Appliances to consider if you’re replacing yours
These models are for when you’ve decided to replace a household appliance. The selection includes fridge-freezers, washing machines and a handheld vacuum cleaner.
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Candy CFQQ5T817EPS, 467 L
Worth considering if you’re replacing a household fridge-freezer and its capacity suits your needs.
311 L fridge and 156 L freezer; energy rating E and stated consumption of 290 kWh/year. The product information says to allow for sufficient ventilation and the clearance specified in the installation instructions.
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Haier X Series 11 HW100-BD14397PGU1, 10 kg
Worth considering if you’re replacing a washing machine and its 10 kg capacity suits your usual loads.
Freestanding front-loading model, maximum spin speed of 1400 rpm, energy rating A and AutoDose function. The product information specifies a 220–240 V power supply; follow the installation and water connection instructions.
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Aspiron AS-CA038 cordless handheld vacuum cleaner
Worth considering if you’re replacing a handheld vacuum cleaner for quick clean-ups, particularly in a car or on a sofa.
Stated suction power of 24 kPa, two power settings and a 500 ml dust container. The filter is described as washable and reusable. The appliance is designed for dry vacuuming, not for liquids, hot ash or flammable substances.
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Samsung RF50C530EB1, 495 L
Worth considering if you’re replacing a fridge-freezer and need a total capacity of 495 L.
Stated capacities of 330 L for the fridge and 165 L for the freezer; energy rating E and consumption of 301 kWh/year. The product information specifies at least 50 mm of clearance at the back and sides for ventilation.
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Comfee CF08EWP05W, 8 kg
Worth considering if you’re replacing a front-loading washing machine and its rated capacity of 8 kg suits your needs.
Stated energy rating A-10%, 16 programmes, steam function and the option to add items during a cycle. The product information gives a depth of 48 cm and recommends not exceeding the rated capacity of 8 kg.
Frequently asked questions
Which household appliances are eligible for the Repair Bonus in France?
The ecosystem rate card in force since 1 January 2026 lists washing machines, dishwashers and tumble dryers, among other appliances, with a €50 discount; fridges with €25; and vacuum cleaners with €40. The discount depends on whether the appliance, fault and repair are eligible, and the work must be carried out by a professional accredited with the QualiRépar label.
Does a repair at a Repair Café automatically qualify for the Repair Bonus?
No. ADEME distinguishes self-repair workshops from professionals offering the bonus. ecosystem reserves the scheme for eligible repairs carried out by a professional accredited with the QualiRépar label.
How should I compare the cost of a repair with that of a new appliance?
Compare an actual quote with the cost of a suitable replacement, taking into account the fault and the condition of the old appliance. In June 2025, ADEME reported that 30% of a product’s value was the average price people considered acceptable to repair a damaged appliance. This figure doesn’t set a rule for replacing your appliance.
What should the retailer offer to do with my old appliance when I buy a new one?
In France, the Ministry for the Ecological Transition says retailers must offer to take back a used appliance when you buy a new one, either in store or online. If the appliance is still usable, you could also consider donating it; otherwise, find out about a suitable collection service for electrical equipment.
Does a refurbished appliance sold by a professional come without a legal guarantee?
No. The DGCCRF states that refurbished products are covered by the legal guarantee of conformity. However, the period during which it is presumed that a defect existed before purchase differs for second-hand and new goods.