When choosing a new washing machine in France, compare the durability rating and its breakdown across models suited to your usual loads and the space available. Check the energy label for water and energy use, noise and spin performance too. If your current machine has broken down, a diagnosis can help you decide whether you need to replace it.
If you’re replacing a washing machine and want to reduce the risk of having to replace it again prematurely, look beyond the brand’s reputation. The durability rating, scored out of 10 according to the French Ministry of the Economy, and its breakdown let you compare the models you’re considering. Just remember that the score isn’t a promise of how long a machine will last.
Your choice depends mainly on the loads you wash regularly and the space available. ADEME says that a 7 kg capacity is enough most of the time. If you regularly wash larger loads, however, it’s worth checking what you really need.
Before choosing a new machine, you can ask for a diagnosis or a quote to find out whether a repair is possible. If the machine is out of warranty, also check with a QualiRépar repairer whether the work may qualify for the Bonus Réparation scheme, as presented by ecosystem.
First, work out whether you need to replace your machine. Then compare washing machines with a format and capacity that suit the way you use them. For the new models on your shortlist, the durability rating and energy label answer different questions, so check both.
| Criterion | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Model durability | Compare the score out of 10 and its breakdown for the exact model, including details relating to repairability and reliability. | If I’m replacing my machine for the long term, I want to understand what supports the score rather than focus on a single number; around 39% of consumers would make verifiable durability their priority. |
| Capacity and format | Match the capacity in kg to your usual loads and check the dimensions of the space where the machine will go. | I don’t want to run out of room for my usual washing or choose a drum that’s rarely full; around 23% of consumers would prioritise finding a machine that suits their laundry. |
| Everyday use | Check the energy label for energy use per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, noise level and spin-drying class. | If noise or resource use matters particularly to me, I want to compare these details separately from durability; around 23% of consumers would put these aspects of everyday use first. |
| Repair or replace | If the machine has broken down, ask for a diagnosis or a quote before deciding to buy a new model. | When my washing machine breaks down, I want to know whether it can still be repaired before replacing it; around 15% of consumers would prioritise weighing up these options. |
According to the French Ministry of the Economy, the durability rating combines repairability and reliability. So two models with similar scores won’t necessarily meet your priorities in the same way.
Check the breakdown for each model you’re considering. In particular, look at the information on dismantling, spare parts, maintenance and resistance to wear.
The durability rating doesn’t tell you about water and energy use, noise or spin performance on its own. ADEME recommends checking the energy label to compare these features.
Use both in your comparison: one gives you insight into repairability and reliability, while the other shows the usage information listed on the energy label.
A large capacity can suit households that regularly wash bulky loads, but ADEME warns against running cycles with an underfilled drum.
Estimate the size of your usual loads before choosing a capacity. ADEME says that 7 kg is enough most of the time, unless your regular washing needs justify more.
A breakdown alone doesn’t tell you whether you need to buy a new machine. Eligibility for the Bonus Réparation scheme depends, among other things, on the machine’s circumstances and the repair being considered.
Ask for a diagnosis or a quote. If the machine is out of warranty, contact a QualiRépar repairer to find out what conditions apply.
Yes. According to the French Ministry of the Economy, new front-loading and top-loading washing machines sold in France have been required to display a durability rating since 8 April 2025. The score is out of 10; it doesn’t guarantee how long an individual machine will last.
Check the breakdown for the exact model rather than relying on the overall score alone. According to the French Ministry of the Economy, the rating combines repairability and reliability criteria. Its breakdown helps you see which factors contribute to the assessment.
No. The rating covers repairability and reliability, while the energy label lets you compare details such as energy and water use, noise and spin performance. ADEME also recommends choosing a capacity that suits your household’s washing loads.
According to ADEME, 7 kg is enough most of the time. If you regularly wash larger loads, compare their actual size with the capacities you’re considering, and check that the machine will fit in the space available.
A diagnosis can help you decide whether you need to replace a broken washing machine. If it’s out of warranty, a QualiRépar repairer can advise you on the repair and whether it may qualify for the Bonus Réparation scheme, as presented by ecosystem.