Households dealing with a breakdown
You want to know whether the warranty, parts availability and a repair quote mean you can keep your appliance rather than replace it straight away.
Who is this decision for?
People planning to buy a new appliance
You’re looking for an appliance that suits the way you use it, and want to check the relevant index, its detailed criteria, spare parts and running costs.
People interested in second-hand or refurbished appliances
You’re considering reuse and want to check the appliance’s condition, the seller’s identity, the applicable warranties and whether it can be repaired in future.
What should you check first?
Repairing, buying new and buying second-hand each come with different considerations. Start by checking the condition of your appliance, then look into the details of the option you’re considering.
Have it repaired
Worth considering: if a repair could extend the life of an appliance that still meets your needs.
Bear in mind: eligibility for the Repair Bonus depends on factors including the warranty, the fault and the professional you choose, according to ecosystem.
Buy new
Worth considering: if the appliance’s condition, the parts it needs or changes in your requirements make replacing it a better option.
Bear in mind: an index can’t guarantee an appliance’s actual lifespan or that it will suit your installation.
Buy second-hand or refurbished
Worth considering: if you prefer to reuse an appliance and can check the condition of the model on offer.
Bear in mind: in France, the legal guarantee of conformity that applies to sales from a business to a consumer does not cover sales between private individuals, according to the Ministry of the Economy.
| What matters to you | What to check | Who this applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Whether it can be repaired | Check whether the warranty is still valid, whether the part is available and whether the repair is feasible. For the Repair Bonus, also check that the fault is eligible and that the repairer is certified by ecosystem. | My appliance has broken down, but it still meets my needs. I want to know whether I can keep using it after a repair. Around 31% of consumers prioritise whether an appliance can be repaired. |
| Repairability of a new appliance | Check the index and its detailed criteria for the relevant category, including parts and ease of dismantling. In France, the Ministry of the Economy distinguishes between the durability index for front-loading and top-loading washing machines and the repairability index for the relevant dishwashers and vacuum cleaners. | If I replace my appliance, I want to compare how easy the new models are to repair. Around 31% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Everyday use | Compare the capacity that suits your household and the information on the energy label, where applicable. Also check the information provided about parts for the specific model. | A new appliance needs to suit how much I use it, without making me overlook its energy or water consumption. Around 25% of consumers prioritise these everyday-use considerations. |
| Condition and seller when buying second-hand | Check the stated condition, any essential accessories and the seller’s status. If you’re buying from a business, check the warranty information and details of the model on offer. | I’d like to reuse an appliance, but its condition and the seller’s identity matter if I’m to make an informed decision. Around 13% of consumers prioritise buying second-hand. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Replacing an appliance without checking the warranty or repair options
A breakdown doesn’t necessarily mean you need to replace the whole appliance. The Repair Bonus described by ecosystem depends in particular on the appliance being out of warranty, the fault being eligible and the repair being carried out by a certified repairer.
First check which warranty applies, then ask for a diagnosis and a quote before choosing a new appliance.
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Comparing only the overall index score
Two similar scores can hide differences in the detailed criteria. According to the Ministry of the Economy, the durability index for front-loading and top-loading washing machines also includes reliability, unlike the repairability index for the relevant categories.
Look at the details of each index and compare the criteria that matter for models in the same category as the ones you’re considering.
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Assuming all parts will be available
A repairability score alone doesn’t tell you whether the part needed for a future repair will be available for your model. The DGCCRF says the seller must state how long parts will be available if the manufacturer has provided them with this information.
Check which parts are covered, how long they’re expected to be available and how to order them for the specific model.
If a necessary part isn’t available, getting the appliance working again may be delayed.
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Confusing a private sale with professional refurbishment
In France, according to the Ministry of the Economy, the legal guarantee of conformity covers a second-hand or refurbished item sold by a business to a consumer. It doesn’t apply to sales between private individuals.
Identify the actual seller, check the stated condition and keep the sale details before committing to a purchase.
Brands to consider by model
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Frequently asked questions
Which index should I look for on a washing machine, dishwasher or vacuum cleaner?
In France, look for the durability index on a front-loading or top-loading washing machine. According to the Ministry of the Economy, it has replaced the repairability index for these appliances since 8 April 2025. For a dishwasher or a vacuum cleaner covered by the scheme, look for the repairability index. Check the detailed criteria too before comparing models.
How can I view the details of a durability index online?
In France, for a product covered by the durability index, the details must be accessible from its sales page in no more than one click, according to the Ministry of the Economy. Open them to review the repairability and reliability criteria rather than relying on the overall score.
When can a repair qualify for the Repair Bonus?
The Repair Bonus may apply to an eligible appliance that is out of warranty, if the fault is eligible and the work is carried out by a certified professional, according to ecosystem. Check that your appliance and fault meet these conditions before booking a repair.
Does the legal guarantee of conformity cover a second-hand appliance?
In France, it covers a second-hand or refurbished appliance sold by a business to a consumer, according to the Ministry of the Economy. It doesn’t apply to sales between private individuals. Identify the actual seller and distinguish this legal guarantee from any commercial warranty that may be offered.
How can I check spare parts before replacing an appliance?
Look for information about parts for the specific model and how long they’re expected to be available. According to the DGCCRF, the seller must provide this information if the manufacturer has given it to them. Also check which parts are covered and how to obtain them.