How to Save Money on Your Next Appliance Purchase

Many appliances come with ghastly price tags. And for items that can cost us thousands of dollars at a time, they don’t last as long as they should. The appliance shortage of 2022 is making it more important than ever to come into this purchase with open eyes.  

Walking the fine line between getting a good deal and buying an appliance that will last can be tricky. But thankfully, it can be done. It just takes some research and a bit of patience. 

Read the Reviews 

One of the best ways to manage appliance repair and replacement costs is to do careful research before you buy a new one. A good deal is one thing to look out for, but the price tag isn’t the only piece of the puzzle. 

And a good deal is only a good deal if the product also works the way it should, for as long as it should. Customer reviews can be extremely helpful in confirming that a lower price point is a sign of a good deal rather than poorer quality. 

Buy from Reputable Brands 

Good appliance reviews can guide you on not only the right brand, but the model to consider as well. Start by searching through the product reviews for mentions of customer service. Most websites offer the option to search reviews for keywords. 

If someone had a problem with the product, did they report that the customer service team was friendly and helpful, or that they called several times and never got through? Were questions answered and problems solved, or were purchasers left to figure things out on their own? 

You can also go straight to the source by searching for the brand on the Better Business Bureau website. This will provide a consolidated overview of ratings, complaints, and resources for your consideration. 

Consider Energy Efficient Appliances  

Some energy-efficient appliances may cost more money upfront, but they tend to last longer than traditional appliances, and they can also save us on long-term energy costs. Energy Star is a program started by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. 

Energy Star appliances can save 10% to 50% of the energy required, depending on the model you’re upgrading from. If you’re replacing an old appliance, the number may be even higher. Energy Star rates everything from air purifiers and ovens to dishwashers and refrigerators.  

Whatever appliances you’re looking for, you can find them on this list of Energy Star Energy Efficient Products. And Energy Star appliances often offer yet another opportunity for cost savings with state-based rebates through renewable energy programs. 

Search for appliance rebates in your state to see how much you can save, on which appliances, and when they apply. They can vary from state to state and often only last for a few months at a time. 

How to Shop for Appliances 

Before shopping for appliances, be sure to take measurements of the old ones. This will help you narrow down your options to only ones that will fit in your space. And it’s better to find out now that something won’t fit than after the delivery drivers take it off the van. 

If you’re shopping online, you can arrange your options by size. And if you’re shopping in-store, you can find the right size on the tags or ask someone for assistance. In either setting, look for information on warranties and return policies before making any decisions. 

Many manufacturers of major appliances offer warranties that last between one and three years after your purchase. These warranties cover manufacturing defects, defective parts, and similar problems, which could save you significant amounts of money if problems do arise.

What is the Best Month to Buy Appliances? 

Most major appliances go on sale several times per year. Manufacturers release new models of most appliances in September and October each year. This means that those manufacturers often need to discount old models to make room for the new ones. 

Labor Day sales fall into this stretch. With Black Friday and Memorial Day sales, November and May are two other months that may offer significant savings. If you can, waiting for one of these sales can cut your costs by hundreds.