Before replacing a broken washing machine, get it properly diagnosed. ADEME points out that an apparent fault does not always mean you need a new appliance. If replacement is the right option, compare the durability index of the models you’re considering, then check their capacity, energy label and noise levels against your needs. A refurbished appliance may also be worth considering, provided its condition and the tests carried out are clearly described.
If your washing machine is becoming unreliable, a diagnosis can help you decide whether to keep it. If you do replace it, the durability index lets you compare the repairability and reliability of the models you’re considering.
If you want to keep your next appliance for longer, look at the breakdown of its durability index, information about spare parts, and the maintenance and repair options available for that particular model.
You may be considering a second-life appliance, provided you know its actual condition, the tests it has undergone, its specifications and who is selling it.
Your first decision is what to do about the faulty appliance: a diagnosis can help you work out whether you can keep it. If you replace it, choose between a new model and a refurbished one, checking the information specific to the appliance you’re buying.
Consider this: if the fault hasn’t been identified and the appliance was still meeting your household’s needs.
Bear in mind: a diagnosis doesn’t guarantee that a repair will be worthwhile. ADEME recommends assessing the fault before replacing the appliance.
Consider this: if replacement is justified and you want to compare different models covered by France’s durability index.
Bear in mind: the index tells you about repairability and reliability, but it doesn’t replace checking the features that matter to your household.
Consider this: if the seller describes the condition of the specific appliance and the functional tests it has undergone.
Bear in mind: the specifications for the new model alone won’t tell you what the refurbished appliance you receive will be like.
| What matters | What to check | Who this applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Deciding when to replace | Ask for an appropriate diagnosis, then assess the appliance’s overall condition and whether it still meets your needs. Don’t work on its electrical components. | If my washing machine isn’t working properly, I want to know whether it can still be used before buying another one. Around 29% of consumers put this decision first. |
| Durability and repairability | For a new model covered by the scheme in France, compare its durability score out of 10 and the details on spare parts, ease of dismantling, maintenance and reliability. | After repeated faults, I’m looking for an appliance whose maintenance and repair options I can assess. This is a priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Everyday use | Choose a capacity that suits the amount of laundry you actually wash. Check the energy label for water and energy use, noise and spin performance. | I want my next appliance to suit my laundry and my home, rather than choosing a drum just because it’s large. Around 24% of consumers put everyday use first. |
| Condition of a refurbished appliance | Check the condition of the specific appliance, the tests carried out, the accessories supplied and who the seller is. | I’m considering a refurbished washing machine if I can understand what’s been checked and know the condition of the one I’ll receive. This is the top priority for around 18% of consumers. |
According to ADEME, around one in two appliances taken to an after-sales service centre isn’t actually faulty. So, a problem with how it works isn’t, on its own, enough to justify replacing it.
Get an appropriate diagnosis without working on the electrical components yourself, then decide what to do based on the appliance’s overall condition.
A washing machine might look the right size on paper but still not suit the amount of laundry you do, your noise requirements or your household’s drying habits. The durability index answers a different question: how repairable and reliable the appliance is.
For each specific model, compare the index and its breakdown with the capacity, energy label, noise level, spin performance and dimensions.
The DGCCRF states that a product described as refurbished must have undergone functional tests and, where necessary, been restored to working order. The description must match the specific item being sold.
Ask about its technical and cosmetic condition, the tests carried out, the accessories supplied and the identity of the professional seller.
A search on a spare parts website tells you about a particular part or its availability at that moment. It doesn’t tell you whether every part your appliance might need will be available in the future.
Identify the exact model, check the breakdown of its durability index where applicable, and look for information on the relevant parts.
A brand to consider if you want to compare new washing machines by their durability index and the specifications of each model.
A brand to consider for front-loading washing machines, with capacities and features that vary by model.
A brand to consider if being able to search for spare parts and accessories by model reference is important to your decision.
A brand to consider if you want to search for parts by model reference and compare the features of specific front-loading models.
No. An apparent fault isn’t enough to conclude that it needs replacing. ADEME advises finding out what the problem is first. Get an appropriate diagnosis rather than working on the electrical components yourself.
Yes. According to the French Ministry for Ecological Transition, the durability index replaced the repairability index for the washing machines covered by the scheme on 8 April 2025. It is a score out of 10, which you should check for the specific model.
Compare the details of the repairability and reliability criteria too. The guidance from the French Ministry for Ecological Transition highlights information on spare parts, ease of dismantling, maintenance and resistance to wear. The score alone won’t tell you everything about your household’s needs.
Yes. In France, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to refurbished goods sold by a professional to a private individual, according to information published on economie.gouv.fr. Check who the seller is, and distinguish this legal protection from any commercial guarantee they may offer.
Choose a capacity that suits the amount of laundry you usually wash and how often you do it. ADEME says that 7 kg is enough most of the time, but this is only a guide and doesn’t replace assessing your household’s needs.