According to a UN report, 62 million tonnes of electrical and electronic waste (including old washing machines, PCs, and mobile phones) were produced in 2022 – an increase of 82 % compared with 2010. In most cases, the electronic modules end up dumped along with the appliance, not only resulting in the loss of valuable resources but also damaging the environment. Miele is tackling this problem head on by taking back and refurbishing an increasing number of damaged and broken components. Customers in five EU countries can now choose to have a refurbished electronic module fitted when their appliance requires repairs.

On average, only 22 % of all electrical waste produced is recycled. Most of the components that are not recycled end up on landfill sites or are burned. “We’re fighting back against electrical waste and giving used electronic components a new lease of life,” says Axel Kruse, SVP Customer Service at Miele.

If the electronic modules in a washing machine, a dishwasher or a coffee machine require replacing, Miele service technicians are now able to offer customers the choice of a new or a reconditioned spare part when they attend to make the necessary repairs. Despite costing around a third less than the equivalent new parts, reconditioned parts are still tested to the same strict quality criteria. Refurbished electronic modules can also be used when carrying out repairs covered by warranties and contractual agreements – including when these services are provided by Miele service partners.