Anyone dealing with a breakdown
You want to know whether the quote, access to spare parts and the appliance’s overall condition make repairing it a better option than replacing it straight away.
Who is this choice for?
Anyone replacing their washing machine
You want to compare the reliability and repairability of models that suit your needs, using the durability index and its detailed breakdown.
Anyone open to buying refurbished
You’re considering an appliance that has been restored to working order, provided you can check its condition, the checks carried out, the parts available and the terms of sale with a professional seller.
What should you look at?
Start by finding out whether your current appliance can be repaired. If you replace it, compare the information that matters for its category and condition.
| Criterion | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Repairing your current appliance | Ask for a diagnosis and a quote; check that the part you need is available for your exact model. | My appliance has broken down, and I want to know whether repairing it is still reasonable before buying another one. Around 36% of consumers would make the feasibility of a repair their top priority. |
| Durability of a new washing machine | Compare the durability index out of 10 and its detailed breakdown, then check the capacity and dimensions you need. | When replacing my washing machine, I want to assess its durability without losing sight of how I’ll use it. Durability would be the top priority for around 29% of consumers buying a new washing machine. |
| Repairability of a vacuum cleaner or dishwasher | Check the repairability index out of 10 for the model you’re considering, along with information about spare parts and documentation. | If I buy a vacuum cleaner or dishwasher, I want to know whether I’ll be able to get it repaired in future. Around 21% of consumers would put future repairability at the top of their list. |
| Condition of a refurbished appliance | Find out who the seller is and ask what checks or refurbishment work have been carried out, as well as which accessories are included. | I’m interested in a refurbished appliance if its condition and the terms of sale are clear enough to help me decide. Around 14% of consumers would prioritise buying a refurbished appliance whose condition can be checked. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Replacing your appliance without looking into the fault
The price of a new appliance won’t tell you whether your current one can still be repaired. Access to spare parts and documentation can also affect your decision.
Ask for a quote for the specific fault and check whether the part is available before weighing up repair and replacement.
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Assuming a high index means the appliance won’t break down
French indices help you compare specific criteria, but they don’t replace the features you need or an assessment of your current appliance.
Compare appliances in the same category, read the details behind their scores, and check the dimensions, installation requirements and essential functions separately.
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Confusing second-hand with refurbished
According to the French Ministry of the Economy, a refurbished item is a second-hand item that has undergone full functional testing and, where necessary, restoration.
Ask for details of the checks carried out and the appliance’s condition, find out who the seller is and keep your sales documents.
Brands to consider
There are no brands to feature in this section.
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Frequently asked questions
Which index should I check for a washing machine, vacuum cleaner or dishwasher in France?
For appliances sold in France, check the durability index for washing machines and the repairability index for vacuum cleaners and dishwashers. The French ministries responsible for the ecological transition state that the durability index has been displayed on washing machines since April 2025. ADEME explains that the repairability index applies to corded, cordless and robot vacuum cleaners.
Does a high score mean the appliance won’t break down?
No. Neither index guarantees that an appliance won’t break down. According to ADEME, the durability index for washing machines takes reliability and repairability into account, while the repairability index covers factors including documentation, ease of dismantling and spare parts. You should also consider the features that matter for how you’ll use the appliance.
What guarantee applies to a refurbished appliance bought from a professional seller?
In France, the statutory guarantee of conformity applies to refurbished goods sold by a professional to a private individual, as stated by the French Ministry of the Economy. This protection for purchases from professional sellers does not apply in the same way to private sales. Check who the seller is and keep the product description and proof of purchase.
Does the Repair Bonus apply to every appliance repair?
No. According to the French ministries responsible for the ecological transition, it takes the form of a deduction from your bill when you use an accredited repairer, subject to eligible products, faults and conditions. Check whether your appliance qualifies before accepting the quote.