Households looking to repair before replacing
Your vacuum cleaner isn’t working properly or has broken down. A diagnosis, the availability of a compatible part and a quote can help you decide whether to keep it.
Who is this choice for?
People considering a new vacuum cleaner
You need to replace your appliance and want to check the repairability rating for the exact model, as well as information about its parts and maintenance.
People open to refurbished appliances
You’re happy to consider a pre-owned appliance if the seller describes its condition, the checks carried out, the accessories included and the warranty terms.
What should you consider?
Start by checking the condition of your current vacuum cleaner. A quote may make a repair worth considering, while the checks you need to make before replacing it depend on whether you choose a new or refurbished appliance.
Repair your current vacuum cleaner
Consider this when: the fault has been identified and a suitable repair is possible.
Bear in mind: your decision will depend on the diagnosis, access to parts and the quote.
Buy a new vacuum cleaner
Consider this when: you need a replacement and want to check how repairable the model is.
Bear in mind: the repairability rating alone won’t tell you whether the appliance suits your floors or storage space.
Choose a refurbished vacuum cleaner
Consider this when: you’re happy to buy a pre-owned appliance with its condition and checks clearly described.
Bear in mind: according to the Ministry for Ecological Transition, refurbished appliances don’t have to display a repairability rating.
| What matters | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Whether it can be repaired | Ask for the fault to be identified, then check whether a compatible part is available and what the quote includes. | If my vacuum cleaner breaks down, I want to know whether I can keep it without committing to an unsuitable repair. Around 42% of consumers would prioritise this question. |
| Repairability of a new model | Compare the rating for the exact model and its breakdown, then separately check that its size and accessories suit your home. | When I need to replace my appliance, I want to choose a new model whose repairability I can assess without overlooking how I use it day to day; around 33% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Condition of a refurbished appliance | Check the description of the specific item, the tests carried out, the accessories included and the seller’s status. | I’m happy to consider a pre-owned appliance, but I want to know its condition and what comes with it. Around 25% of consumers would choose a refurbished appliance if these checks were available. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Replacing your vacuum cleaner without finding out what’s wrong
A breakdown doesn’t necessarily mean you need to replace the appliance. Whether it can be repaired depends on the fault, the part involved and the quote.
Ask for a diagnosis and check the terms of any repair before ordering another appliance. ADEME says a Repair Bonus may be available in certain circumstances when you use a QualiRépar-approved repairer.
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Confusing repairability with suitability for your home
According to the Ministry for Ecological Transition, the repairability rating takes factors such as ease of disassembly and spare parts into account. It won’t tell you whether the size, accessories or features suit your needs.
First, consider what you need to clean at home. Then use the rating and its breakdown to compare new models that meet those needs.
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Assuming a refurbished appliance is identical to a new model
According to the Ministry for Ecological Transition, refurbished appliances don’t have to display a repairability rating. You should assess the condition and what’s included for the specific item being sold.
Ask the seller about the tests carried out, any refurbishment work, the list of accessories and the warranty and returns terms. For a cordless model, also check the information about the battery and charger.
If a charger, brush or consumable is missing, you may need to take an extra step before you can use the appliance as intended.
Brands to consider for this choice
There are no brands to feature in this section.
Joybuy products
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Frequently asked questions
Which vacuum cleaners are covered by the repairability rating in France?
The Ministry for Ecological Transition lists corded, cordless and robot vacuum cleaners. Before buying a new appliance, check the displayed rating for the model and variant you’ve chosen.
What does a vacuum cleaner’s repairability rating mean?
It tells you about how repairable the product is, not how well it cleans. The Ministry for Ecological Transition lists documentation, ease of disassembly, parts availability and parts prices among the criteria. Check the rating breakdown to assess these points.
Does a refurbished vacuum cleaner have to display a repairability rating?
No. According to the Ministry for Ecological Transition’s guidance, refurbished equipment doesn’t have to be assessed or display a rating. Instead, ask for details about the specific appliance, the tests and refurbishment work carried out, and the accessories included.
What warranty applies to a refurbished vacuum cleaner bought from a trader?
In France, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to refurbished goods sold by a trader to a private individual, according to the Ministry of the Economy. Check who the seller is and how claims are handled. Any commercial warranty is in addition to this legal guarantee, not a replacement for it.
Does the Repair Bonus cover every vacuum cleaner fault?
No. According to ADEME, eligibility depends on factors including the fault, the appliance’s warranty status and whether you use a QualiRépar-approved repairer. Check that you’re eligible before the repair and review the quote to decide whether it’s right for you.