People who use their appliance every day
If you use your kettle, coffee maker or microwave every day, the quoted repair time matters just as much as finding a temporary way to do the same job.
Who is this decision for?
People looking to avoid replacing an appliance too soon
You want to find out whether the appliance can be repaired before considering a replacement. You’ll need to check whether your particular appliance and its fault are covered, and whether any support is available.
People who rarely use their appliance
If you only need the appliance’s function occasionally, you may be able to use one you already have, borrow one or hire one instead of buying a permanent replacement.
What should you consider before choosing?
First, look into repairing the broken appliance, then think about how often you’ll need it. These two answers will help you decide whether a replacement, new or second-hand, is worthwhile.
Have it repaired
Consider this if: a repairer can take on the appliance and get it working again within a timeframe that suits you.
Bear in mind: the timeframe may depend on the diagnosis and availability of parts. The Repair Bonus is not automatic.
Buy new
Consider this if: a repair won’t meet your needs and you’ll use the appliance regularly.
Bear in mind: buying new may be unnecessary if you only need the appliance occasionally.
Choose refurbished or second-hand
Consider this if: you need a replacement and the listing clearly describes the appliance being sold.
Bear in mind: as the DGCCRF points out, a second-hand listing doesn’t guarantee that the checks required for a product sold as refurbished have been carried out.
Don’t replace it
Consider this if: you rarely use it and an appliance you already have, a loan or a rental can cover the function you’ve lost.
Bear in mind: this solution may become inconvenient if you start needing the appliance regularly.
| Criteria | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Access to repairs | Check the warranty, whether the fault is covered and whether a QualiRépar-approved repairer is available. According to ecosystem and the ministry responsible for the environment, these conditions are among those that determine eligibility for the Repair Bonus. | If my appliance can still be used, I want to consider having it repaired before buying anything. Around 36% of consumers would prioritise this option. |
| Time to get the appliance working again | Ask how long the diagnosis and repair are expected to take, then check whether another solution can cover the function you’ve lost in the meantime. | When I use the appliance every day, I mainly need to get that function back quickly. This would be the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Choosing a replacement | For a refurbished product, check the functional tests, the condition described and the seller’s identity. For a new model, compare the durability information available for its category. | If I have to replace the appliance, I want to be able to judge its condition accurately and understand the terms of sale. Around 21% of consumers would put this first. |
| Whether buying is worthwhile | Think about how often you used the appliance before it broke and whether you could borrow or hire one, or use another appliance you already have. | If I rarely use a particular function, I’d rather check whether I can manage without it. This would be the priority for around 14% of consumers. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Assuming every fault qualifies for the Repair Bonus
It’s not enough for an appliance type to appear on ecosystem’s list: the warranty, the fault and using an approved repairer also matter.
Ask the repairer to confirm that your appliance and its fault are eligible before agreeing to the repair.
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Assuming a second-hand listing means the product is refurbished
According to the DGCCRF, a product sold as refurbished must have undergone functional tests. Don’t assume these checks have been carried out for a straightforward second-hand listing.
Read the exact description of the offer, the appliance’s stated condition and the information provided by the seller.
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Replacing an appliance straight away when you rarely use it
Another appliance, a loan or a rental may be enough for occasional use. What works will depend on your needs and what’s available near you.
Before deciding on a long-term replacement, work out which tasks the broken appliance is actually stopping you from doing.
Brands to know
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Repair Bonus cover every broken small kitchen appliance?
No, it isn’t automatic. According to ecosystem and the ministry responsible for the environment, the appliance must, among other things, be out of warranty, the fault must be eligible and the repair must be carried out by an approved repairer. Check that these conditions apply to your appliance before arranging a repair.
What should I check before buying a refurbished kitchen appliance?
Check that the offer is for a refurbished product and that the stated condition matches the appliance being sold. The DGCCRF says that a product described as refurbished must have undergone functional tests. Also check the seller’s details and keep your sales documents.
Should I buy a new appliance if the repair doesn’t work?
Not necessarily. A new appliance, a refurbished product or another way of meeting your needs may each be suitable in different situations. If you buy new, ADEME recommends taking account of the durability and repairability information available for the appliance in question.
Can I manage without replacing the appliance?
Yes, if you can get the same job done another way without disrupting your day-to-day routine. ADEME includes borrowing and hiring among the options to consider. Check what’s available near you before relying on either.