People deciding whether to replace their machine
Your washing machine is getting old or isn’t working properly, and you want to compare extending its working life with buying a new appliance.
Who is this guide for?
People who care about how long an appliance will last
You’re considering a replacement and want to understand what the durability index says about the reliability and repairability of a specific model, without mistaking it for a guarantee of longevity.
People who want to know about maintenance and repairs
You want to check the maintenance information, documentation and parts that could matter if the machine needs attention in future.
What should you compare?
First, decide whether a repair could meet your needs. If you choose to replace the machine, compare the detailed specifications of new models and the practical information relevant to each one.
| What matters to you | What to check | Who is this most important to? |
|---|---|---|
| Repair or replace | Compare the machine’s overall condition, the repair quote and how you expect to use it. Check the eligibility criteria for the repair bonus with the French Ministry of the Economy. | I want to know whether my machine can still meet my needs before paying for another one. Around 31% of consumers in this group prioritise weighing up repair against replacement. |
| Reliability of a new appliance | Compare the durability index score out of 10 and the reliability details for each model. The score doesn’t guarantee a particular lifespan. The French Ministry for the Ecological Transition explains how the index works. | I want to compare reliability factors before choosing a new appliance. Around 25% of consumers in this group put this first. |
| Repairability and parts | Check the index details and information about the parts covered, how long they’ll be available and how to order them. The DGCCRF explains what information to look for from the manufacturer, importer or their authorised representative. | I want to check the repair options before choosing my next washing machine. Around 25% of consumers in this group prioritise access to documentation and parts. |
| Routine maintenance | Read the manual and check that you’ll be able to reach the parts that need maintenance in the space where the machine will go. Que Choisir reports more mixed feedback on maintenance, particularly access to the filter. | I want routine maintenance to be practical for the planned installation and use. Around 19% of consumers in this group prioritise ease of maintenance. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Replacing the machine just because it’s old
Age alone doesn’t tell you whether a repair is possible or whether it’ll meet your needs.
If a repair is an option, compare the quote and expected use with the cost of replacing the machine. Separately, check the eligibility criteria for the repair bonus with the French Ministry of the Economy.
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Treating the durability score as a promise of longevity
The index combines reliability and repairability criteria; it doesn’t guarantee how long your appliance will last.
Check the details for the model and compare the factors that matter most to you.
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Assuming available parts make every repair straightforward
Information about certain parts isn’t enough to show that a repair will be accessible or cost-effective.
For the model you’re considering, check which parts are covered, how long they’ll be available and how to order them from the manufacturer or importer.
Brands to use as a guide
No brands are featured in this section.
Washing machines available on Joybuy
Consider these front-loading washing machines if you’ve decided to replace your appliance. Compare their stated features with the capacity you need for your laundry.
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HOOVER HWPD 414AMBC/1-S, front-loading washing machine, 14 kg
Worth considering if you’re replacing your appliance and the stated capacity suits your laundry loads.
Capacity: 14 kg; spin speed: 1,400 rpm; colour: white; class B.
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Electrolux EWF1410N2, front-loading washing machine, 10 kg
Worth considering if you’re replacing your appliance and the stated capacity suits your laundry loads.
Capacity: 10 kg; Anti-Allergy steam function; TimeSave; Inverter motor.
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CHiQ JW105883G, front-loading washing machine, 10 kg
Worth considering if you’re replacing your appliance and the stated capacity suits your laundry loads.
Colour: dark grey; drum: 530 mm; spin speed: 1,400 RPM; 16 programmes; steam and 1-Touch Smart Wash.
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CHiQ JW85883G, front-loading washing machine, 8 kg
Worth considering if you’re replacing your appliance and the stated capacity suits your laundry loads.
Colour: dark grey; drum: 530 mm; spin speed: 1,400 RPM; 16 programmes; steam and 1-Touch Smart Wash.
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Comfee CF08EWP05W, front-loading washing machine, 8 kg
Worth considering if you’re replacing your appliance and the stated capacity suits your laundry loads.
16 programmes; pet hair programme; steam function; add-laundry function.
Frequently asked questions
Which rating should I look for on a new washing machine sold in France?
For the household front-loading and top-loading washing machines covered by the rules, look for the durability index, which replaced the repairability index on 8 April 2025. The French Ministry for the Ecological Transition says the index combines repairability and reliability in a score out of 10.
Where can I find the index details when shopping online?
The French Ministry of the Economy says the score must appear close to the price, and the full scoring details must be accessible from the same page in no more than one action. Check these details to compare the criteria that matter to you.
Will every part be available to everyone for ten years?
No. According to the DGCCRF, the requirement applies to certain parts for household washing machines for ten years after the last unit of the model is placed on the market. Check which parts are covered, how long they’ll be available and how to order them from the manufacturer, importer or their authorised representative.
Does the repair bonus automatically reduce the cost of a repair?
No. The French Ministry of the Economy explains that, among other conditions, the appliance must be out of warranty and the repair must be carried out by an approved repairer. Check that you’re eligible before comparing the quote with the cost of a replacement.
What should I check for the new appliance’s maintenance?
Read the manual and maintenance instructions, then check that you’ll be able to reach the parts that need cleaning in the space where the machine will go. The index details include a maintenance and servicing criterion, but they don’t replace this practical check.