Households with a broken or ageing washing machine
A diagnosis can help you decide whether it’s worth considering a repair before replacing the machine. ADEME also offers a service to help you find an appliance repairer.
Who is this guide for?
Anyone buying a new washing machine
If you want to compare how long machines might last without relying on a score alone, the durability index, its breakdown and the energy label each offer different insights. The ministry responsible for ecology explains the index, while ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that suits your household’s needs.
Anyone buying a refurbished or second-hand machine
You’ll need information about the actual unit being sold, the checks it has undergone and its condition. The DGCCRF points out that a refurbished product’s technical and cosmetic description must relate to that specific machine, not just the original new model.
What should you check first?
Repairing, buying new and choosing refurbished each call for different information. First, find out whether your current machine can be put back into service, then check the details relevant to the option you’re considering.
Repair your current machine
Worth considering: if a diagnosis identifies a suitable repair for the fault.
Keep in mind: getting the machine working again doesn’t guarantee that another fault won’t occur.
Buy a new washing machine
Worth considering: if you want to compare the durability information shown for eligible new models in France before you buy.
Keep in mind: the score doesn’t guarantee how long the individual machine you buy will last.
Choose a refurbished machine
Worth considering: if the seller explains the checks carried out and the condition of the unit on offer.
Keep in mind: the new model’s durability index won’t tell you how much wear this particular unit has.
| Criteria | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Whether a repair is worthwhile | Ask for a diagnosis, details of the part needed and the terms of the repair. If you’re considering the Repair Bonus, check whether it applies with an approved repairer. | If my machine breaks down, I want to know what repair could get it working again before deciding whether to replace it. Around 27% of consumers would make this their top priority. |
| Durability of a new machine | Check the score out of 10 and its breakdown for the exact model, including information on documentation, ease of dismantling, spare parts, maintenance and resistance to wear. | If I’m buying a new machine that I intend to keep for a long time, I want to understand what its score covers rather than relying on the score alone. Nearly 33% of consumers would put this check first. |
| Suitability for your needs | Compare the capacity with the amount of laundry you do. Check the energy label for water and energy use, spin performance and noise levels. | I want to avoid choosing a capacity that doesn’t suit my usual laundry loads, while also taking running costs into account. Around 20% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Condition of a previously used machine | Check the tests carried out, the condition of the unit, the seller’s identity and the guarantees that apply. | If I buy refurbished, I need to be able to assess the machine that will be delivered to me, not just the original model’s specifications. Around 20% of consumers would prioritise this check. |
According to the ministry responsible for ecology, the durability index has been displayed for eligible washing machines in France since 8 April 2025. It brings together repairability and reliability criteria, but doesn’t guarantee the lifespan of any individual machine. ADEME also recommends choosing a capacity that meets your actual needs and checking the energy label.
Mistakes to avoid
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Making your decision based on the durability score alone
A new washing machine’s score doesn’t tell you on its own whether its capacity, noise level or running costs suit your needs.
Compare machines of the same type, then consider the index breakdown alongside the energy label and warranty terms.
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Assuming refurbished means the same as second-hand
The ministry responsible for the economy explains that a refurbished product is a second-hand item that has been tested to check that it works and, where necessary, repaired. However, the term alone doesn’t tell you the condition of the specific unit on offer.
Ask what checks and repairs have been carried out, and make sure the description relates to the machine being sold.
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Confusing a commercial guarantee with your statutory rights
A commercial guarantee has its own terms and conditions. According to the ministry responsible for the economy, it supplements statutory guarantees and doesn’t replace them.
Check its duration, exclusions and who will handle a claim. Don’t mistake it for the full extent of your rights.
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Replacing the machine without having the fault checked
Without a diagnosis, it’s difficult to compare a clearly defined repair with replacing the machine. The Repair Bonus doesn’t replace this assessment.
Ask the repairer which part and repair are planned, and how long the machine will be out of action. If the professional is approved, check whether the bonus applies.
Washing machine brands to consider
There are no brands to feature in this section.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I read the durability index for a new washing machine?
For eligible new washing machines sold in France, compare the score out of 10, then check the breakdown for the exact model. According to the ministry responsible for ecology, the index includes factors relating to repairability and reliability. The overall score therefore doesn’t replace checking the criteria that matter to you.
Does a good durability score guarantee that my washing machine will last a long time?
No. The durability index is a way to compare machines, not a guarantee of how long an individual one will last. When choosing a new machine, also check its capacity, energy label, maintenance requirements and warranty terms.
What guarantees should I check when buying a refurbished washing machine?
In France, the legal guarantee of conformity also applies to a refurbished washing machine sold by a business to an individual, as the ministry responsible for the economy explains. Check the seller’s identity and the terms of any commercial guarantee on offer. It supplements statutory guarantees but doesn’t replace them. Different rules apply to sales between individuals.
What should I check so I can maintain my washing machine after buying it?
Check that the maintenance instructions for the exact model are available and suit the way you plan to use it. Keep the machine’s model details, proof of purchase and warranty documents so you can arrange a repair or make a claim more easily.