Start by getting a professional diagnosis. If the repair can be completed in time for you to keep up with your washing, you may be able to avoid replacing the machine. If you do need a new one, compare the durability index of eligible new washing machines alongside the capacity, dimensions, noise levels and energy use that matter to your household. A refurbished machine needs to be assessed on its own merits, while a washer-dryer is mainly useful when space is limited; its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity.
When your washing machine breaks down, how quickly it can be repaired matters just as much as whether it can be repaired at all. A professional diagnosis can help you decide between getting it working again and buying a replacement that will fit in your home.
If you’re considering a new machine, the durability index gives you information about its reliability and repairability. ADEME also recommends choosing a capacity that suits your household’s washing needs.
A washer-dryer combines both functions in one space. However, you’ll need to compare its drying capacity with its washing capacity, and check whether the cycle length suits your routine.
After a breakdown, first check whether a repair will get you back to doing your washing in time. If you need to replace the machine, choose a suitable capacity and format before comparing models based on documented durability and how you’ll use them.
| What matters | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Repair and timescale | Check whether a warranty may cover the machine, and ask about a professional diagnosis and repair timescale. For the Repair Bonus, check that the fault is eligible and that you use a QualiRépar-certified repairer. | If my washing is piling up, I want to know quickly whether the machine can be used again. Around 33% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Durability and suitability | For an eligible new washing machine sold in France, check its durability index and score breakdown, then confirm its rated capacity and actual dimensions. | I want to avoid replacing my machine too soon, without choosing a model that won’t fit or suit my usual loads. Around 27% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Energy use and noise | Check the energy label for consumption in kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and noise level. Compare figures measured on the same basis. | If I do washing often or the machine is near a living area, its energy use and noise will affect my choice. Around 20% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Drying in a small space | Check the separate washing and drying capacities, the length of a full cycle, and the space available for a washer-dryer or two compatible appliances stacked in a column. | I need to dry clothes indoors, but don’t have space for two appliances side by side. For around 20% of consumers, this would take priority over other criteria. |
A breakdown doesn’t always mean you need to buy another appliance. Without a diagnosis, you won’t know whether it can be up and running again within an acceptable timeframe.
If you can wait for a repair visit, ask for a professional diagnosis and first check whether the machine is still covered by a warranty.
According to the ministry responsible for the environment, this index provides information about the reliability and repairability of eligible washing machines. It doesn’t tell you whether a model suits your household’s loads or will fit in the space available.
Compare the score and its breakdown for the exact model, then check the capacity, dimensions, energy label and noise level.
Que Choisir states that drying capacity is lower than washing capacity. This means you’ll need to take some clothes out before drying if you’ve washed a larger load.
Check both capacities, the length of the wash-and-dry cycle and the corresponding energy use. If you have the space, also check whether two appliances can be stacked safely.
A refurbished washing machine has already been used. The DGCCRF states that its technical and cosmetic description must relate to the refurbished appliance actually being offered, not the new model.
Check the stated condition, specifications, delivery terms and warranties offered for that specific appliance.
Que Choisir lists models from these brands among the washing machines it has tested in France. Being included in a comparison does not amount to a brand ranking or a conclusion that applies to every model in each range.
Que Choisir lists the WCA132WCS, WED385 WCS and WWA120WCS models, among others.
The WGE03207FR and WGE02201FR models are among those listed by Que Choisir.
Que Choisir lists the EWQ6412B washing machine among the models it has tested.
The WF3S9043BB3 is among the washing machines listed by Que Choisir.
Yes, for eligible washing machines sold in France. According to the ministry responsible for the environment, the durability index replaced the repairability index for this category on 8 April 2025. Check the score for the exact model in store or on its product page, but don’t make it your only deciding factor.
It may apply if the appliance is no longer covered by a warranty, the fault is eligible and the repair is carried out by a QualiRépar-certified repairer, according to ecosystem. Ask for these conditions to be confirmed during the diagnosis. The scheme doesn’t guarantee that the machine can be repaired.
Not necessarily. According to Que Choisir, its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. Compare the two capacities listed for the model you’re considering; you may need to remove some clothes before starting the drying cycle.
In France, the statutory guarantee of conformity also applies to refurbished goods sold by a retailer to an individual, according to the Ministry of the Economy. It can be claimed for two years from delivery; for second-hand goods, the presumption that the defect existed at the time of delivery lasts for one year. Also check that the description relates to the appliance you’ll receive.
Yes, provided both appliances are compatible and installed using a suitable stacking kit. Que Choisir recommends choosing appliances from the same brand or manufacturer. In all cases, check the manuals for the exact models and make sure you have enough height.