Is renting an electrical appliance more interesting than buying it?
Electrical appliances are expensive. Just count how many of these appliances we use every day or every week: from washing machines to televisions.
But did you know that you can also rent these appliances? This is interesting for people who haven't settled yet or people whose lives are unstable. When you rent an electrical appliance instead of buying it, you pay for the service but not for the ownership. This formula teaches people to deal with things more consciously. In our ‘throwaway society’ we have to learn to consume less: not always wanting to have everytihng but renting, sharing, giving away and recycling. It will also encourage companies to develop products better. In the past, products were designed to break down quickly. With a rental subscription, companies benefit from their products lasting longer. Sustainability is therefore paramount!
Are rental subscriptions interesting?
The Inspector on Radio 2 investigated.
“We want to make it easier for customers to have a good and energy-efficient appliance in their home,” explains Arne Van Verdegem of Coolblue. “We offer this rental formula for all household appliances where energy efficiency can be a factor: refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, dryers, televisions, even coffee makers.” Arne lists the advantages of these rental subscriptions at Coolblue:
· When ordering, the customer pays a one-off fee and then a fixed amount every month. So you don't have to pay a large amount right away.
· The device is connected free of charge to the desired location
· If the product breaks, we repair or replace it within 48 hours.
· After 1 year, it can be cancelled monthly free of charge
· When moving, we offer the option of moving the product free of charge
· After approximately 3 to 3.5 years, the device is 'paid' at the subscription price. However, it is prohibited by law in Belgium to buy the device.
(MH with Skwadra by Tagtik/Source: Radio 2/Illustration picture: Unsplash)
