Spare parts for washing machines: Market check reveals problems with availability and prices

Spare parts for washing machines: Market check reveals problems with availability and prices

According to a report by www.rundschau-online.de, the European Commission introduced eco-design requirements for large household appliances such as washing machines in 2021 to increase repairability. A market check, carried out by the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) and the consumer advice centers in autumn 2023, examined ten washing machine models for compliance with EU eco-design requirements regarding spare parts and repair instructions. It became clear that although spare parts are available, they are often difficult to find, prices vary greatly and there are no clear repair instructions.

The consumer advocates' criticisms include that spare parts are difficult to find and understandable repair instructions are often missing. The prices for spare parts have significant differences, which affects the cost of the repair. Eight of the manufacturers examined allow the direct purchase of tested spare parts on their websites, while two manufacturers do not fully comply with the requirements of the Ecodesign Regulation. In addition, only four manufacturers offer repair instructions to help consumers carry out repairs themselves. Another important point is that a repair is more sustainable for the environment and the consumer's wallet. Violations of eco-design can currently only be prosecuted by market surveillance authorities, and consumers generally have no recourse to assert claims for damages against manufacturers.

These facts suggest that the problem of spare parts and the lack of repair instructions have a negative impact on the market and consumers. Consumers may be discouraged from making repairs, negatively impacting the environment and their wallets. Manufacturers would have to pay more attention to improving the repairability of their products in order to meet the requirements of the Ecodesign Regulation and to provide consumers with a sustainable and cost-effective option.