Start by checking the energy consumption of a fridge or freezer that runs all the time, or a frequently used washing appliance, depending on how you use your appliances. Then compare appliances in the same category, with a suitable capacity and using the same consumption unit. If your current appliance still works or could be repaired, weigh up the benefits of buying new against its condition and the options for maintenance or repair.
If your fridge, fridge freezer or freezer runs all the time, check its annual energy consumption before prioritising it over other purchases. ADEME points out that these appliances operate continuously, and that their capacity and features should also suit your needs.
If you run your washing machine, dishwasher or tumble dryer frequently, how often you use it matters when deciding whether to replace it. Compare appliances in the same category, taking into account the capacity you actually use.
If your appliance still works or looks repairable, its condition, a repair quote and information about spare parts can help you decide whether to replace it. For eligible categories, France’s repairability or durability ratings provide another useful point of reference.
Start by identifying what you use the appliance for, then compare energy consumption using the relevant measure for that category.
| What matters to you | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Appliances that run continuously | Compare kWh/year for refrigeration appliances with a similar capacity and features. Also check how much capacity you need. | When my fridge or freezer runs day and night, I want to know whether it’s the appliance I should look at first. Around 42% of consumers prioritise this need. |
| Washing or drying cycles | For comparable washing appliances, check the kWh per 100 standard cycles and the capacity. Take into account how many cycles you actually run. | If I run the washing machine frequently, I’m looking for a capacity that suits my usual loads without needing to run more cycles. Around 33% of consumers put this need first. |
| Repair or replace | Check the appliance’s condition, get a repair quote and, where applicable, look at its repairability or durability rating. | My appliance still works or might be repairable. Before buying another one, I want to know whether it can continue to meet my needs. Around 25% of consumers prioritise this decision. |
ADEME gives the energy consumption of washing appliances in kWh per 100 standard cycles, while the European Commission says that the energy label for refrigeration appliances shows kWh/year. These figures cannot be compared directly across different categories.
The rating letter is no substitute for comparing energy consumption and what the appliance offers. ADEME points out, in particular, that an oversized fridge or one with unnecessary features can increase energy use.
For refrigeration appliances, compare kWh/year for models with similar capacities. For washing appliances, compare kWh per 100 standard cycles between models in the same category.
A fault doesn’t necessarily mean an appliance can’t be repaired. In France, the repair bonus applies to certain products and repairs carried out by an approved repairer, according to the Ministry for the Ecological Transition.
Ask for a diagnosis or quote, and check whether spare parts are available and the repair is eligible before making a decision.
A large fridge or freezer, or a washing machine drum that’s often only partly full, may not be the right fit for your needs.
Before comparing models, check how much capacity you actually use, the size of your usual loads and how often you run a cycle.
The type of appliance can come with specific installation requirements. For example, the European Commission notes that a vented tumble dryer needs an outlet to the outside.
Before ordering, check the dimensions, connections and ventilation requirements for the model you’re considering.
These fridge freezers and washing machines are examples of the two types of appliance to consider here: ones that run continuously and ones used for frequent washing cycles. Their inclusion in this selection doesn’t, by itself, mean you should replace your current appliance.
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Worth considering if you’re looking to replace an appliance that runs continuously and would genuinely use a capacity of 467 L.
The product name specifies an E rating and Total No Frost technology. Compare its annual energy consumption and usable capacity with appliances offering a similar level of service, and check the condition of your current appliance too.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a 444 L refrigeration appliance and that capacity suits how you use it.
The product name mentions an E rating, frost-free technology and a noise level of 40 dB. Check the installation dimensions and compare its kWh/year with those of models of a similar capacity before deciding.
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Worth considering for frequent washing if a 6 kg capacity suits your usual loads and a top-loading design works for your space.
The product name specifies 1,400 rpm, a B rating, an Inverter motor and Wi-Fi connectivity. Compare the kWh per 100 standard cycles with those of other washing machines, and check the connections required.
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Worth considering if you regularly have loads suited to a 10 kg capacity, rather than choosing this size when the drum would often be underfilled.
The product name mentions an Inverter motor. To assess its energy consumption, check the kWh per 100 standard cycles on the energy label, and make sure you have enough space and the right connections.
No. These units measure different types of use. The European Commission and ADEME recommend comparing appliances within the same category and on the same basis first. To understand the impact on your energy bill, you should then take your actual usage into account.
Check the kWh/year, usable capacity and features you need. ADEME and the European Commission present these as useful points of comparison. The rating letter alone won’t tell you whether the capacity is right for your household.
Check its condition, ask for a quote and find out whether spare parts are available before comparing it with a new appliance. For eligible washing machines in France, the Ministry for the Ecological Transition states that the durability index replaced the repairability index on 8 April 2025.
No. According to the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, it applies to eligible products and repairs carried out by an approved repairer. Check that your appliance and the repair you’re considering are covered before making a decision.