Households considering a new washing machine
You do laundry regularly and want to compare the repairability, reliability and maintenance needs of models that suit you.
Who are these options for?
Households considering a refurbished washing machine
You want to know the condition of the appliance on offer, what checks have been carried out and what guarantees come with that specific offer.
Households whose washing machine may be repairable
Your appliance has developed a fault, and you want to find out what’s wrong and what work is needed before deciding whether to replace it.
What should you consider?
Buy new
Worth considering: if you need to replace your appliance and can compare the durability index of the relevant models sold in France.
Bear in mind: the index gives an indication of repairability and reliability, but doesn’t guarantee that an appliance will suit your laundry loads or washing habits.
Buy refurbished
Worth considering: if the offer gives you enough information to assess the condition of the appliance you’ll receive and the checks it has undergone.
Bear in mind: the term ‘refurbished’ doesn’t mean you can assume it will be as reliable as a new appliance.
Repair your current appliance
Worth considering: if a diagnosis identifies a repairable fault and a quote helps you decide whether repairing the appliance makes sense.
Bear in mind: any repair assistance you may be eligible for doesn’t replace the need to check which parts are required, how long the work will take and the appliance’s overall condition.
| Criterion | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Durability of a new appliance | Check the index for the exact model and how it was calculated, then compare its capacity and energy label with your needs. | If I’m replacing my washing machine for regular use, I want to compare how easy it is to repair and how reliable it is, without overlooking whether it suits my household; around 42% of consumers make this comparison a priority when buying new. |
| Condition of a refurbished appliance | Check the description of the appliance being sold, the checks listed and the seller’s identity. | Before choosing a refurbished appliance, I want to know its actual condition rather than relying on the new model’s product details; around 33% of consumers put this check first. |
| Repair or replace | Ask for a diagnosis and a quote that sets out the work and parts required; check the terms of any repair assistance you may be eligible for. | When my appliance breaks down, I’d rather find out what needs repairing before considering another washing machine; around 25% of consumers prioritise this decision. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Treating the durability index as a guarantee against breakdowns
According to ADEME, the index combines repairability and reliability. UFC-Que Choisir points out that some of the information used to calculate it comes from manufacturers. The score is a useful comparison tool, not a promise of how long the appliance will last.
Check the criteria for the exact model, then separately review its capacity, energy label and warranty terms.
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Assessing a refurbished appliance as if it were new
The DGCCRF states that the technical and cosmetic details must describe the refurbished appliance being offered, not just the equivalent new model.
Before comparing offers, ask for a description of the appliance’s condition, details of the checks carried out and the seller’s identity.
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Replacing a faulty appliance without getting a diagnosis
A fault alone doesn’t tell you whether repair is worthwhile. You need to establish what work is required and whether it’s feasible before making your decision.
Get the appliance diagnosed and ask for a quote before deciding whether to repair or replace it.
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Neglecting maintenance after purchase
UFC-Que Choisir says that limescale build-up on a heating element can cause it to overheat and contribute to a breakdown.
Follow your model’s instructions to clean the parts you can access and tailor maintenance to your water hardness.
Brands to consider
There are no brands to feature in this section.
Related Joybuy products
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Frequently asked questions
Does the durability index apply to new washing machines sold in France?
Yes. The display requirement has applied since April 2025 to new domestic washing machines in the relevant category, according to ADEME. Check the score for the specific model you’re considering at the time of purchase, rather than relying on a general statement about the brand.
What does the durability index help you compare?
The index helps you compare the repairability and reliability of the models it covers. According to ADEME, both factors contribute equally to the score. It doesn’t replace checking the capacity, energy consumption and maintenance requirements that suit your household.
What warranty applies to a refurbished washing machine bought from a business?
The Ministry of the Economy states that the statutory guarantee of conformity applies when a refurbished item is sold by a business to a private individual. It lasts for two years from delivery. For a second-hand item, the presumption that a fault existed at the time of delivery lasts for one year, compared with two years for a new item. Any commercial warranty offered by the seller is separate.
How should you assess a refurbished washing machine offer?
Check the information specific to the appliance being sold: its technical and cosmetic condition, the checks described and the seller’s identity. The DGCCRF states that the description must relate to the refurbished item itself. Ask for more details if the offer only lists the new model’s specifications.
Does a breakdown mean you need to replace your washing machine?
No. A breakdown alone isn’t enough to decide between repair and replacement. Get a diagnosis and a quote, then consider the work required, whether parts are available and how long the repair will take before making your decision.