To decide which appliance to look at first, start by separating refrigeration, which runs continuously, from washing machines and dishwashers, whose stated energy consumption is based on reference cycles. Then compare models in the same category that suit your usual loads or storage needs. A better energy class is not enough if the capacity, noise level or installation requirements are not right for you. According to ADEME, the energy label helps you compare appliances, but its figures alone cannot predict your household’s electricity costs.
A fridge or freezer runs continuously. If you’re thinking of replacing yours, compare the annual kWh shown on the energy label with the storage space you need and the noise level you can live with where it will be installed.
For a washing machine, energy and water consumption matter just as much as having a capacity that suits your usual loads. The length of the reference programme and noise level may also influence your choice.
It’s worth checking the number of place settings, water consumption per Eco cycle and programme duration, as well as energy use per 100 cycles. Noise is especially important if your kitchen is close to a living area.
Start with the appliance you’re replacing, then compare models that can do the same job. The European Commission lists refrigeration energy use in kWh per year, while washing machines and dishwashers are rated in kWh per 100 cycles, so these figures are not directly comparable.
| What matters to you | What to check | Who this is relevant to |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration and usable capacity | Compare annual kWh for fridges and freezers of a suitable type and size; check how the space is divided between fridge and freezer compartments. | If my appliance runs continuously, I want to look at its energy use without losing the space I need for food. Around 36% of consumers prioritise refrigeration and storage. |
| Laundry cycles | Check the kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle and a capacity that suits your usual loads. | If I do laundry frequently, I’m looking for a washing machine that suits the amount of washing I do and my water use. This is the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Dishwashing and daily routines | Check the number of place settings you need, the Eco programme duration and noise level, as well as the energy and water figures on the label. | When dishes need washing every day, I want the capacity and cycle duration to fit my routine, especially if the kitchen is near a living area. Around 21% of consumers make this a priority. |
| Repair before replacement | Identify your current model and find out whether it can be repaired. For a new appliance, check the applicable index and service information for the exact model. | Before buying, I’d rather know whether my appliance can be repaired and whether the next one comes with useful maintenance information. Durability is the top priority for around 14% of consumers. |
These figures cover different periods of use: the energy label for refrigeration shows annual consumption, while labels for washing appliances show consumption based on cycles.
First compare models within the same category. Then consider whether the appliance runs continuously or how often you do laundry when deciding which one to replace first.
An energy class letter won’t tell you whether a fridge has enough space, a washing machine has the right capacity or a dishwasher has enough place settings for your needs.
Work out the capacity and layout you need before comparing the energy figures for similar models.
Energy label figures are based on standard conditions. Your chosen programmes, load sizes and frequency of use may be different.
Use the label to compare models. To estimate your costs, consider your own usage habits and the price you pay for electricity separately.
A fault doesn’t necessarily mean you need a new appliance. In France, any durability or repairability information that applies to a new appliance complements—but does not replace—the energy label.
Find the model number of your current appliance and look into the fault and repair options. If you buy a new appliance, check the applicable index and service information for the exact model.
In France, Bosch offers washing machines, dishwashers, fridges and freezers.
Miele France’s laundry ranges let you compare capacity, spin speed and energy class across its washing machines.
Whirlpool France offers several types of washing machine, including front-loading, top-loading and built-in models.
Electrolux France offers a parts search for laundry appliances, refrigeration and dishwashers using the product details.
These fridge-freezers, washing machines and dishwashers cover the three types of appliance to consider before replacing one. Compare their format and capacity with your needs, then check the energy figures for the exact model in its product information sheet before comparing appliances in the same category.
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Worth considering if you need a three-door refrigeration appliance with a stated capacity of 360 L. The model name lists an E energy class and Total No Frost. Check the usable capacity of each compartment, the annual kWh on the energy label and the space needed for installation.
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A top-loading model is worth considering if this format suits your utility room and 7 kg is right for your loads. The model name lists 1,200 rpm and an A energy class. Check the label for consumption per cycle, the reference programme duration and spin noise.
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This tabletop format could suit a kitchen where a 6-place-setting appliance meets your needs, provided the space and connections are suitable. The product name lists a D energy class, 7 programmes and 47 dB. Check the energy information sheet for consumption and Eco programme duration before comparing it with other models.
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Consider this model if you need 467 L of storage and have room for a four-door appliance in your kitchen. The model name lists an E energy class and Total No Frost. Check the annual kWh and compartment capacities on the model information sheet. Also make sure there is enough clearance to open the doors.
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This top-loading model is worth considering if a 6 kg capacity suits your laundry loads. Its name lists 1,400 rpm, a B energy class and 17 programmes. Compare the reference cycle consumption and check the spin noise level and required connections.
No. According to the energy labelling information provided by the European Commission, a fridge shows kWh per year, while a washing machine shows kWh per 100 cycles. Start by comparing models in the same category that suit similar needs.
No. It provides a standardised basis for comparing models, not the savings you’ll make by replacing your appliance. To estimate your costs, consider how often you use the appliance, the programmes or settings you choose and the price you pay for electricity.
The energy and water figures on its label relate to this reference programme. Check that the duration fits your routine; don’t assume other programmes will deliver the same figures.
According to the French ministries responsible for the ecological transition, the durability index applies to washing machines covered by this labelling, while the repairability index applies to covered dishwashers. Alongside the energy label, dimensions and your needs, check the index that applies to the exact model.
Check its product information sheet and, if its energy label has a QR code, the data in the European EPREL register. Before comparing figures, make sure the reference and variant match the appliance you’re considering.