photo by Bill Robertson

Be smart when you’re in the market for new appliances. You don’t get much advance notice when a major appliance breaks. This leaves you in a vulnerable situation because you rely on these appliances on a daily basis. These big-ticket items can cost you a lot more if you’re not prepared. Here are a few ways to help you avoid spending more than you have to.

KNOW WHAT YOU NEED: The stores feature the highest-priced appliances like Corvettes in a showroom. It can be tempting to buy an appliance with lots of bells and whistles. If there are features you know you’ll never use, don’t overbuy. Look at the base models, and work your way up rather than looking at the most expensive first, or every appliance you look at afterward will seem less appealing. The top-three most expensive will often be featured close together. You’ll be more likely to choose a more expensive appliance based on the top-three options. If you start from the lowest-priced, your comparisons are more accurate and not driven by marketing tactics. Look at the energy guides on each appliance. They tell you how much each machine costs to operate. Measure and know what size you need. Also, if you’re handy or you know a handyman, consider installing the appliance on your own. Be wise when buying this season’s trendy color. Major appliances last longer than the trend. Today’s stainless steel is tomorrow’s harvest gold.

LOOK FOR DEALS: Maybe your appliance can be repaired or you can buy a used or reconditioned appliance. Do comparison shopping. If you’re looking to simply upgrade, buy major appliances in the fall (September and October), as stores need to make room for new arrivals. Ask retail-appliance sellers questions, too.
– Do they offer package deals if you buy more than one appliance?
– Can you get free delivery?
– Do they sell floor models or scratch-and-dent models?
– Do they honor price adjustments if the appliance goes on sale within 30 days, or do they know whether it will be on sale soon?
– Is there a rebate or any type of promotion, such as a gift card or product incentive, if you buy the appliance?
– Do they price match?
– Do they accept trade-ins or at least haul your old appliance?
– What is the manufacturer’s warranty? Say no to extended warranties. According to Consumer Reports, extended warranties aren’t worth buying because the appliance doesn’t typically break within the warranty time, costs less to repair, or the problem isn’t covered by warranty.
– Where is a repair/service center located? Is it near you?

MAKE MONEY: Can you sell your old appliance? If it’s still in good condition, place an ad or donate it. Call your local utility company or local government office to find out whether they have a recycling-rebate program for old appliances. If not, see whether you can start a program in your local community. Check your local yellow pages for scrap-metal dealers. Call and see whether you can sell your appliance there or at least strip the wires or any copper tubing.

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