From July 31, 2026, new rules have come into effect in the European Union countries, including Slovakia, that change the approach to repairing household appliances and electronics. Previously, manufacturers could easily refuse repairs after the warranty expired, forcing you to buy new devices, but now the situation is different.
What does the “right to repair” mean in Slovakia?
The new EU Directive 2024/1799, adopted in June 2024, obliges manufacturers to repair goods even after the warranty period has ended. This rule applies to a wide range of electronics and household appliances for which repairability requirements already exist in the EU.
The law covers:
mobile phones and tablets;
televisions and monitors;
washing machines and dishwashers;
refrigerators and freezers;
vacuum cleaners and other appliances.
This list is not final — it may be expanded in the future based on EU environmental requirements.
Main changes and benefits for consumers
The goal of the new rules is to reduce electronic waste and extend the life of your appliances while saving resources.
Here are the key changes:
Repair is mandatory. The manufacturer can no longer refuse repair due to the device’s age or difficulties in supplying parts. The service must be provided at a reasonable price and within acceptable timeframes.
The warranty is extended. If your product is repaired under warranty, the warranty period is automatically extended by at least 12 months.
Access to information and spare parts. Manufacturers must now provide full information about their repair services, including an estimated cost of typical repairs. Spare parts and tools must be available at prices that do not make repair more expensive than buying a new device.
No restrictions. Manufacturers are prohibited from using software, hardware, or contractual tricks that hinder repair. They also cannot refuse service just because the device was previously repaired by an independent technician or by yourself.
Different parts can be used. It is now officially allowed to use not only original but also compatible, used, and even 3D-printed spare parts for repairs, provided they are safe and do not violate intellectual property rights.
Simply put, these changes help fight the “buy and throw away” culture.
What to do if the manufacturer refuses to repair?
If the manufacturer refuses to repair a product covered by the new rules, you can demand that they fulfill their obligations. Slovakia, like other EU countries, must adapt its legislation to this directive. Even if local laws are not yet updated, in some cases you can demand compliance with the rights guaranteed by the European directive through the courts.
These innovations not only protect consumer rights but also stimulate the development of local repair services, creating new jobs and supporting the circular economy.
