Before replacing a large appliance, check whether its energy use and the way you use it make it worth comparing new models with a similar capacity. For a fridge, freezer or frequently used dishwasher, the figures on the energy label provide a useful basis for comparison. If an appliance breaks down, a professional assessment can also help you consider repair. A lower stated energy consumption alone doesn’t guarantee the same results in your home.
If your fridge, fridge freezer or freezer runs continuously, compare its energy use with models offering similar capacities and compartments. The European Commission says the energy label for refrigeration appliances includes details such as annual energy consumption and storage volumes.
How often you use an appliance is an important factor when deciding whether to replace a dishwasher or tumble dryer. For a dishwasher, compare the capacity you need with the energy consumption stated for the eco programme. Also check the cycle duration and installation requirements.
If its capacity still meets your household’s needs, find out whether it can be repaired before choosing a replacement. The repair bonus offered by the French ministry responsible for ecology may be available through an approved repairer, depending on the product, the fault and the terms in force.
Start with the energy consumption figures for the type of appliance, then check that its capacity, intended use and installation requirements make it a fair comparison.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration appliances | Compare kWh/year figures for appliances with similar capacities. Check the fridge and freezer volumes separately: the European Commission lists both among the details shown on the energy label. | My appliance runs continuously. I want to find out whether a model suited to my storage needs would use less energy, without attributing my entire bill to this one appliance. |
| Dishwashers | The European Commission lists kWh per 100 cycles for the eco programme, litres per cycle, capacity, programme duration and noise level. Compare models using these same figures. | I run cycles frequently and want a capacity that suits my household’s washing-up, rather than an appliance that’s bigger than I need. |
| Tumble dryers | Compare the figures on the energy label with the capacity you need and how often you dry clothes. Check how the model collects or vents water. | I use my tumble dryer regularly. I also need to make sure it will fit and work in the space available. |
| Repairs | Ask for the fault to be assessed and check the terms that apply to the repair bonus. According to the French ministry responsible for ecology, the discount is applied by an approved repairer. | I’m still happy with my appliance and want to look into having it repaired before deciding whether to replace it. |
Appliances with different capacities or compartments won’t meet the same needs. The European Commission says their energy labels also show kWh/year and storage volumes.
Compare the annual energy consumption of models with similar usable volumes and features.
A standardised figure lets you compare appliances on a like-for-like basis, but your actual usage may differ. This can depend, for example, on which dishwasher programme you choose.
For a dishwasher, start with the kWh per 100 eco cycles shown on the energy label, then factor in the cycles you typically run before making a decision.
Repair may still be an option if the appliance meets your needs. The repair bonus isn’t automatic: the French ministry responsible for ecology says you must use an approved repairer, among other conditions.
Have the fault assessed and check whether the product and repair work are eligible before choosing between repair and replacement.
An appliance that doesn’t suit your household’s needs, or won’t fit the space available, may not be practical for everyday use.
Check the dimensions and clearance required. For a dishwasher, also check its capacity and eco programme duration.
These models let you explore the option of buying a new fridge freezer. If you’re considering replacing your current appliance, compare their capacities and energy label details with those of your existing model. This selection doesn’t determine whether repair is the right choice, or cover other types of appliance.
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If you’re considering replacing a refrigeration appliance, check whether this capacity suits your storage needs and compare the kWh/year figure on its energy label with that of an appliance of a similar capacity.
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This format may be worth considering if your household really needs its large capacity. Compare the compartment volumes and kWh/year on the energy label, then check that it will fit in the space available.
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If this capacity meets your needs, check the compartment volumes and kWh/year on the energy label before comparing it with another fridge freezer. Also check the dimensions and installation clearance required.
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This large capacity is only useful for comparison if it suits your storage needs. Check the volume of each compartment, the kWh/year on the energy label and the space needed for installation. The product name states that it operates at 40 dB.
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Before replacing a built-in appliance, check the dimensions of the housing and the installation requirements. Then note the kWh/year on the energy label and compare it with a model of a similar capacity and configuration.
No. The European Commission says the energy label for refrigeration appliances also shows consumption in kWh/year and storage volumes. Compare these figures for appliances with similar capacities and compartments.
Compare the kWh per 100 cycles for the eco programme. The European Commission says the label also shows litres per cycle, capacity, eco programme duration and noise level. Using a different programme may result in different energy consumption.
No. According to the French ministry responsible for ecology, the bonus is applied as a discount by an approved repairer, subject to the applicable terms. Ask for the fault to be assessed and check whether the product and repair work are eligible before choosing this option.
No. ADEME says dishwashers are among the appliances covered by the repairability index. The index can help you assess a model before buying, but it doesn’t tell you whether your current appliance can be repaired. Ask for a professional assessment to help you decide.