Obsolescence of Large Household Appliances in Germany

Abstract

Even though the duration of usage of large household appliances is found to be an average of 13 years in Germany, the data also shows that the proportion of large household devices which are already defective within the first five years has increased in the last decade. Material, functional, psychological and economic obsolescence are defined and discussed to explain this behaviour. The aim of this study is to identify consumer behaviour and motivation in the use and disposal of two major household appliances. Furthermore, whether the devices were disposed for reasons of economy, functionality or defect will be determined. A survey of 1,972 respondents was run online and on paper to collect quantitative data about consumer behaviour regarding the disposal of household appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers throughout their lifecycle in Germany. The data gathered will help to clarify if there is a connection between the disposal principle and the device price category and age. It was found that the main reason for disposal of a device is a defect, which is mostly not repaired because of additional costs which might be higher compared to a new purchase when the lifecycle is considered.