Before replacing an appliance, check whether a suitable repair could still meet your needs. If you’re buying new, compare models in the same category based on how you’ll use them, the applicable durability or repairability information, and compatible spare parts. In France, the durability index for applicable washing machines gives information about reliability and repairability, while the repairability index for dishwashers and vacuum cleaners is not a promise of how long they will last. If you’re considering a refurbished appliance, check the information for the specific item on offer, its condition and the tests carried out.
If you’re choosing a new washing machine, compare the reliability and repairability information rather than relying on the overall score alone. The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance explains which categories are covered by the durability index.
For a dishwasher or vacuum cleaner, check the repairability information and search for spare parts using the exact model reference. The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance details which categories are covered by the repairability index.
If your current appliance still meets your needs, ask for a diagnosis and compare the proposed repair with replacement options. For a refurbished appliance, you’ll also need to check its condition and the terms of sale.
In France, the Ministry of the Economy and Finance says that the durability index has applied to the relevant washing machines since 8 April 2025, replacing the repairability index. For new dishwashers and vacuum cleaners covered by the scheme, check the repairability index.
| What matters | What to check before buying | Who is most concerned? |
|---|---|---|
| Washing machine reliability and maintenance | Compare the details of the durability index, maintenance guidance and how well the model suits your needs. Don’t rely on the overall score alone. | If I’m replacing a washing machine, I want to understand its reliability, maintenance requirements and repairability before choosing. Around 33% of consumers put these criteria first. |
| Whether your next appliance can be repaired | For a dishwasher or vacuum cleaner, read the details of the repairability index and search for parts compatible with the exact model reference. The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance notes that parts availability depends on the categories covered. | If I want my next appliance to be repairable, I check the documentation and parts that fit its model. Around 33% of consumers prioritise the possibility of repair. |
| Condition of a refurbished appliance | Check the description of the specific item’s technical and cosmetic condition, the functions tested, the accessories included and the seller’s identity. | If I’m considering a refurbished appliance, I want to know the condition of the item on offer and what has been tested. Around 17% of consumers give these points priority. |
| Whether it’s worth repairing your current appliance | Ask for a diagnosis, check whether the required part is available and find out whether the repair may qualify for the repair bonus when carried out by an approved repairer. | If my appliance still meets my needs, I check whether a suitable repair is possible before replacing it. Around 17% of consumers prioritise keeping their current appliance. |
For the washing machines covered, the durability index replaced the repairability index on 8 April 2025. Looking for the old index could therefore lead you to compare information that no longer applies to the category.
Identify the exact appliance category, then check the index that applies to it. The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance explains the scope of the durability index.
An index brings together several criteria, but it doesn’t guarantee a particular lifespan or that a part for your appliance will be available straight away.
Read the detailed criteria and search for parts using the exact reference of the model you’re considering.
The technical and cosmetic description should relate to the refurbished item being sold, not simply to the equivalent new model. The French Ministry for the Ecological Transition’s guidance on the repairability index excludes second-hand and refurbished appliances from the requirement to calculate and display this index.
Check the item’s description, the tests carried out, the accessories included and the seller’s commitments.
Worth considering for a dishwasher if searching for spare parts by reference is an important factor in your choice.
Worth considering if access to vacuum cleaner repairs is one of your priorities.
Worth considering if you want to search for a part using the appliance’s exact identification details.
This selection features new washing machines. When comparing them, check how well they suit your needs, along with the durability and repairability information that applies to their category.
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Its stated capacity may suit a household comparing washing machines designed for loads of up to 9 kg.
Capacity: 9 kg; spin speed: 1,400 rpm; 14 programmes, including wool, delicates and a 20 °C cycle.
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Its stated 10 kg capacity may suit a household comparing models designed for larger loads.
Capacity: 10 kg; spin speed: 1,400 rpm; 16 programmes.
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Compare this model if you’re looking for an 8 kg washing machine with extra washing features.
Capacity: 8 kg; spin speed: 1,400 rpm; steam and SensiCare functions.
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Its capacity and specialist programmes may appeal to households comparing a range of washing options.
Capacity: 10 kg; 16 programmes; steam function; pet hair programme; add-a-garment function; A-10% energy rating.
For a new front-loading or top-loading washing machine covered by the scheme, look for the durability index, which has applied since 8 April 2025. For a new dishwasher or vacuum cleaner covered by the scheme, look for the repairability index. The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance explains that the durability index replaced the repairability index for the washing machines concerned.
Check the detailed criteria and the information for the specific model. For a new appliance, also check the maintenance guidance, documentation and exact spare-part reference. If your current appliance has broken down, ask for a diagnosis before deciding.
No. The French Ministry for the Ecological Transition’s guidance dated 28 June 2022 excludes second-hand and refurbished appliances from the requirement to calculate and display a repairability index. Check the description and tests for the specific item on offer, rather than treating any score for the equivalent new model as an assessment of its condition.
For a refurbished appliance sold by a business to an individual, the legal guarantee of conformity is separate from any additional commercial guarantee, according to the French Ministry of the Economy and Finance. Read the information about the specific item and the commitments made by the seller.
No. The French ministry responsible for the Ecological Transition describes a deduction from the bill for an eligible repair carried out by an approved repairer. Check that the appliance, repair and repairer are covered before comparing your options.