Households with an unreliable washing machine
If breakdowns keep happening or the spin cycle is causing problems, find out what’s wrong and how much it would cost to get the machine working again before deciding to replace it.
Who is this guide for?
Anyone buying a new washing machine
If you’ve decided to replace your machine, compare the durability ratings of new models alongside practical features such as capacity, dimensions, energy and water consumption, and noise levels.
Anyone considering a refurbished machine
You’ll need to check the condition and specifications of the actual appliance being sold, as well as who’s selling it and the terms of sale.
What should you check before deciding?
First, find out whether your current machine can be repaired. Then compare the features of each option.
Get the machine diagnosed
Consider this if: you don’t yet know what’s causing the fault and want to find out whether it can be repaired.
Bear in mind: your decision will depend on the quote, whether a compatible part is available and how long the repair will take.
Buy new
Consider this if: you need to replace your machine and want to compare models by their durability ratings and energy labels.
Bear in mind: a durability rating alone won’t tell you whether a machine’s capacity, size and servicing arrangements suit your needs.
Choose refurbished
Consider this if: you’ve found an offer with a detailed description of an appliance whose condition and specifications suit you.
Bear in mind: the durability rating for new products can’t be used to compare a refurbished appliance directly with a new model.
| Priority | What to check | Depending on your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Repair | Ask for a diagnosis and an itemised quote. Check the part number and, if applicable, whether you’re eligible for the Repair Bonus when using an approved repairer. | I’d rather know the cost and any practical considerations involved in a repair before replacing a broken machine. |
| Durability | For a new model sold in France, check the durability rating next to the price, as explained by info.gouv.fr. Also check whether parts and documentation are available for the exact model number. | I want to compare new models without assuming that a brand-wide claim applies to every model. |
| Everyday use | On the energy label, compare capacity, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, the eco programme duration, spin performance and noise levels. Measure the space available, too. | Capacity matters for my usual laundry loads; noise and dimensions matter if the machine is near a living area or in a tight space. |
| Refurbished | Check the model and condition of the appliance being sold, its specifications, the seller, delivery and warranty terms. The DGCCRF states that the description must relate to the refurbished product, not the original new product. | I’m happy to buy an appliance that isn’t new if I can check exactly what I’ll receive and understand the terms of the transaction. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Replacing the machine without getting it diagnosed
A fault alone isn’t enough to tell you whether a repair is worth considering. According to economie.gouv.fr, the Repair Bonus is deducted from the bill for certain products repaired by an approved professional, provided the eligibility criteria are met.
Ask for a diagnosis and a quote, then check whether your appliance and its fault qualify before comparing your options.
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Looking only at the energy rating of a new model
The energy label gives information about usage and standardised consumption, but it doesn’t replace the durability rating or checking whether parts are available.
Check both ratings, then consider capacity, dimensions, eco programme duration, noise and spin performance in relation to your home.
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Assuming a brand’s claims apply to every model
Any stated parts availability period or endurance test applies to the products and conditions specified by the brand. It doesn’t guarantee that a particular part will fit your appliance.
Make a note of the exact model number and check the matching parts and documentation.
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Comparing a refurbished machine using the new-product listing
The condition and specifications of a refurbished appliance may differ from those of the original new product. The DGCCRF requires the information provided to relate to the refurbished product being sold.
Check the description of the specific appliance, its accessories, delivery arrangements and terms of sale.
Brands worth considering
Bosch
Worth considering if access to genuine parts is important for your next washing machine.
- Bosch states that genuine parts for its washing machines are available for 15 years.
- This claim doesn’t measure the reliability of the model you choose. Check which part is compatible with its exact model number.
Miele
The W1 and W2 series may be worth looking at if the manufacturer’s stated development tests are relevant to your comparison.
- Miele says tests on these series and their main components were designed to simulate an average of 20 years’ use.
- This isn’t a guaranteed lifespan for every appliance, nor an independent comparison with other brands.
Whirlpool
The brand offers a search tool for documentation and parts by model number, covering both front-loading and top-loading washing machines.
- Whirlpool’s official catalogue lets you search for parts that match your appliance.
- Check availability when you need a part. The catalogue doesn’t guarantee that every model will remain repairable in the future.
New washing machines available on Joybuy
These two front-loading models offer different capacities to consider if you’ve decided to replace your washing machine. Before choosing, check the durability rating for the model you’re interested in and make sure it will fit your space.
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Bosch WGE02407FR – 7 kg, 1 400 rpm, energy rating A
Consider whether the 7 kg capacity suits your household’s laundry needs. This front-loading model is listed at 1 400 rpm and energy rating A. Before ordering, check its dimensions, durability rating and which parts are compatible with model WGE02407FR.
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Haier X Series 11 HW100-BD14397PGU1 – 10 kg, 1 400 rpm, energy rating A
Compare the stated 10 kg capacity with your usual laundry loads and the space available. This front-loading model is listed at 1 400 rpm and energy rating A, and features Direct Motion, AutoDose, Steam and Wi-Fi. Check its durability rating and the availability of parts for this model.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find the durability rating for a new washing machine?
For a new washing machine sold in France, look for the rating symbol next to the price, including on online shopping pages. Info.gouv.fr says it must be visible, legible and easy to access when you’re making a purchase.
What does the durability rating mean?
It combines repairability and reliability criteria for the new products covered. Compare similar washing machines, and don’t assume that the rating alone tells you how long a machine will actually last or whether it’s right for your home.
Can you compare the rating of a new machine directly with a refurbished one?
No. The durability rating applies to new products. For a refurbished machine, check the condition and specifications of the appliance being sold, as well as the seller and terms of sale.
Which figures should I check on the energy label?
Compare the energy rating, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, capacity, eco programme duration, spin performance and noise levels. ADEME recommends using this label to compare consumption and practical features. On its own, it won’t tell you whether the machine can be repaired in the future.
How can I check whether I qualify for the Repair Bonus before replacing my machine?
Ask an approved repairer whether your appliance and its fault meet the scheme’s criteria. According to economie.gouv.fr, the applicable discount is deducted directly from the bill if the product is no longer covered by a warranty and the repair qualifies.