You can save money on appliances both before and after the purchase. The first thing to do is assess if you really need a new one in the first place. Repairs on machines that are less than five years old are generally worthwhile, so as long as the total cost is less than half the price of a new machine, go ahead and make the repairs. If done properly, the machine should last for several more years.
Get Only What You Need
If you determine that you really need to get a new appliance, there are things you can do to save money on the purchase. First figure out what you need. An extra large washer or fridge are tempting and exciting, but if you live alone or have a small household, the money spent is pointless. Get appliances that fit your lifestyle. If you have several children, a larger machine makes sense. Otherwise, there is no need for a giant washing system even if they look awesome.
Check Consumer Reviews
Check out the consumer reviews before you head to the stores. Purchasing something that costs a few dollars less, but has a much higher incidence of problems will cost you in the end. Energy Star ratings are helpful in determining how much energy an appliance will use, but each category is graded individually, so it isn’t as helpful as you might think.
Scratches Save Money
If you are looking for new appliances but don’t mind a little scratch or damage, you can often save quite a lot of money purchasing from the “scratch and dent” section of a store. The damage is only cosmetic, and it won’t affect the way the appliance works. Another option is to request the floor model; this technique works best at the end of a model year. Make sure that all warranties still apply to either type of purchase.
Holidays Means Discounts for Consumers
If you must purchase a truly new appliance then it is time to start checking out sales and incentives. Appliances often go on sale in late fall, just before Thanksgiving. Stores feel that people are ready to purchase just before the holidays in order to display a “spruced up” home to anticipated guests. New models start turning up and there is more incentive for stores to get rid of their old inventory.
Compare Store Ads
It pays to get the Sunday papers at this point of the year if you are looking for new appliances. You can compare prices at different stores before you head out the door. Know how much you are able to spend and have several different, but comparable models in mind. Lower end appliances often work just as well as higher end models, but for a fraction of the cost. You really don’t need the fanciest washer on the block to get your clothes clean.
Don’t Forget Delivery
If you are able to pay cash, and you avoid the big super stores, you may be able to negotiate on price a bit. Outlets and single stores are much more flexible in pricing than chains. Unless you have several strong and willing friends, make sure you arrange for delivery and set up as well. If you have ever had to haul a new front loading washing machine up the stairs, you will completely understand why. My wall and back will never be the same.
There is no need to purchase appliances of any kind for full price. Do your homework, budget yourself and strike when you see the price you want for the appliance you need.
This is again another article from the How to Save Money on Everything ebook. Get yours today by signing up to the free newsletter!
Promote or Save This Article
If you like this article, please consider bookmarking or helping us promote it!
Print Post | Email Post | Del.icio.us | Stumble it! | Reddit |
Related Posts
- 13 Energy Saving Tips
- Standby Mode Turns Appliances Into Money Suckers
- Saving Money on Your Household Bills
- We Need to Conserve as Much Energy as Possible
- 7 Money Saving Tips To Get A New Looking Kitchen For Less
Subscribe! (and Get a Mini-Course with Free Registration)
Follow me on twitter! In addition, subscribe to grab free amazing content or take advantage of the newsletter to have content delivered to you. For starters, a 7-part mini course to help you spend less and be happy will be delivered to you when you subscribe!(Don't worry about spam, because we hate it as much as you do!)
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
I really like the tip to get a scratched or floor model. Especially with appliances, it’s not like they used it much at the store so it’s basically brand new!
Oh David, it pains me to say this but what’s the point? This content is glaringly obvious and does not encourage readers to return. The best “tip” appeared in your advertising, which touted energy savings and tax rebates. Now, that’s something a lot of people might not think about and could cut expenses today and far down the road.
Thanks for your comments. Though even trivial tips can serve as a reminder for all of us sometimes, I can see how it can be obvious to many people such as yourself who are more in tune with saving money from the get go.
I will take this into account when I talk to the people who are helping me put together this “money saving” series. Thanks again for your observation and willingness to speak out.
Cash saves money too. Don’t buy on credit! Use cash and negotiate a deal. If you’re getting something that is priced at $1200 for example, go in there with $900 in cold hard cash. You can get a deal and save money. If you can’t get a deal there, try another store.
I find it best to wait for the store to sell the floor model first before you even approach them. They will generally mark the price down, but you can get a much better deal if you talk to the manager of the store because them putting it on sale is when they really want to just get rid of the unit.
I have saved a lot buying appliances that are floor models or had very slight damage.
Also, some big box stores will honor competitors specials as well. Look for big sales around the holidays.
Yeah good point on scratched or store models. I actually saved hundreds getting store model
i find customer reviews very useful. that is why i never buy a media hyped thing just because every else is. i prefer for others to buy them use them, take them apart and tell the world about their experience before i get one. this doublebacking has saved me a lot of cash because as i wait for enough reviews i make sure if i really need the thing or i just want it. thanks for the useful comment
Those are great tips! Planning on your purchase is very very important. Before you start your appliance shopping, you should also do your research. Sometimes people just buy the cheapest appliance they can find, but the cheapest is not always the best. The internet is a great tool of research, and you can look up well-known brand names and compare and contrast until you find the right one for you and your home. Another great way to do research about home appliances is to ask around. Many people have had experience buying appliances for their homes, and would be glad to share some of their experiences and advice with you. Also, take interior design into account.