Don't throw away a broken phone or washing machine: A repair will extend the warranty after you get a new one

In Slovenia and other European Union member states, new regulations have been introduced that encourage consumers to repair rather than discard broken household appliances or electronics such as washing machines, smartphones, tablets and similar devices. The rules, part of broader efforts to promote sustainable consumption and circular economy practices, will extend product warranties for consumers who choose repairs over replacements. The updated legislation, announced by the European Commission, mandates that manufacturers must provide free or affordable repair services for products that can technically be fixed under EU law. Repairing items instead of replacing them will now result in an additional twelve months of warranty coverage. This change aims to reduce waste and support longer product lifespans, aligning with environmental goals. Under the new rules, consumers will have the right to request repairs from manufacturers, which must be carried out within a reasonable timeframe unless the service is free. Repairs must also be performed at a fair cost, encouraging companies to offer more accessible maintenance options. Additionally, manufacturers will need to ensure that information about repair services and access to spare parts is available at a reasonable price. A key component of the reform is the launch of a pan-European online platform dedicated to repairs, set to begin operations in 2027. This platform will help consumers locate suitable repair services by country, making it easier to find local experts. The European Network of Consumer Centres (EPC), including the European Consumer Centre Slovenia, has praised the initiative as a meaningful step toward ensuring consumer rights in the repair sector. Despite these advancements, some common household items remain excluded from the scope of the new rules. Items such as coffee machines and headphones are not included, highlighting ongoing challenges in achieving comprehensive sustainability measures. The EPC has noted that while the new regulations represent progress, they fall short of addressing all types of everyday goods. Manufacturers are required to make sure that their repair services are both accessible and affordable, reinforcing the policy’s goal of supporting long-term product use. The European Commission estimates that the new rules could generate up to four billion euros in growth and investment across the EU. These figures reflect the potential economic benefits of shifting towards a more sustainable model of consumption and production. As the implementation of the new rules begins, consumers are being encouraged to consider repair options before discarding faulty devices. The changes mark a shift in how products are managed throughout their lifecycle, emphasizing the importance of maintaining functionality and reducing unnecessary waste. With the upcoming launch of the online repair platform, the process of finding and accessing repair services is expected to become significantly smoother for users.