Whether replacing an old fridge or buying a new washer and dryer, smart shopping strategies can help you save. Start by figuring out what you need. Unless you live alone, an extra large washing machine makes no sense.
Fancy features jack up prices, so only splurge on those you need. And look for the Energy Star label to save on utility bills over time.
Shop Around
Replacing aging appliances is never cheap, but shopping around is the best way to get great deals on major appliance purchases. Some smart strategies vary based on the type of appliance and time of year—including buying scratch and dent models, asking for price matches, and looking for sales or clearance items.
Appliances can be purchased at many places, including local independent stores and national chains. Local shops are more willing to haggle and often have lower prices than their online competitors. In addition, many national retailers—including Best Buy and Home Depot—offer low-price guarantees on large swaths of their inventory.
There are two kinds of appliance shopping: happy and sad. The former happens when you’re planning a dream kitchen remodel. At the same time, the latter occurs when your old air conditioner begins wheezing during an inferno heat wave or the dishwasher springs a leak right before Friends giving. Whatever your reason for replacing an appliance, knowing some smart shopping tips can make the expense much more bearable. In particular, you can save by checking prices in advance, avoiding the holiday rush, and purchasing a floor or refurbished model.
Buy Out of Season
Whether you’re looking for the latest refrigerator model or just a new microwave, there are smart ways to save big when shopping for household appliances. These strategies include buying out of season, asking for floor models, and negotiating prices.
Purchasing appliances at the right time can save you hundreds of dollars. By researching and planning, you can take advantage of retailers’ seasonal sales, manufacturers’ discounts on sites like RetailMeNot, and rebates.
The ideal time of year to purchase large appliances depends on the type and model of appliance, with washers and dryers typically going on sale in September and October, refrigerators in May, and ranges/ovens in January. Additionally, some retailers have clearance sales to make room for new inventory around specific holidays like Labor Day and Memorial Day or major shopping days, such as Black Friday.
It’s also best to shop during the week rather than on the weekend, as appliance stores are less crowded, and salespeople may have monthly quotas to meet and be more willing to negotiate prices or offer discounts. Finally, it’s a good idea to shop at scratch-and-dent stores, as these are more likely to sell appliances with minor cosmetic defects or damage.
Ask for a Floor Model
When shopping for appliances, ask the sales professional if you can purchase a floor model. This is a used appliance that’s never been in the box and may have scratches or dents, but it still works perfectly fine and will cost significantly less. Typically, these appliances become available for sale when the store needs to make room in its showroom for newer models.
Bank rate reports that retailers may also sell floor models when they cannot find buyers. For example, you can get a washer or dryer on display for a year for a substantial discount.
Another way to save on appliances is by buying them when they’re in season. According to Consumer Reports, dishwashers roll out in September and October, refrigerators in May, and stoves and ovens in January. During these times, prices are reduced, and stores offer floor models for clearance prices. Also, consider asking the retailer if they have “same-as-cash” terms, allowing you to pay for your appliances in cash and save on interest charges.
Look for Rebates
Many appliance brands, retailers, and local energy companies offer rebates on ENERGY STAR appliances. These rebates can be instant online or mail-in, and they are a great way to save big while making your home more energy efficient.
If you do your initial research online and then shop in-store, you’ll have a clear idea of the exact appliance model you want to buy and will be better able to avoid being talked into upgrades or unnecessary bells and whistles. National retailers often have price-match guarantees and will match competitors’ sales on specific products. Regional merchants may also have appliance sales and promotions.
The worst time to shop for appliances is when you need them and are desperate for a replacement. In that case, you’re more likely to pay top dollar for whatever’s available and then be disappointed by its performance or durability. Instead, plan by identifying each appliance that needs replacing and then start shopping for the best models during the optimal season. This approach gives you more time to take advantage of manufacturers’ and retailers’ sales and rebates and allows you to secure financing or savings in advance.
Negotiate
Getting the best household appliance prices takes careful planning, timing, and negotiation. Using an online price comparison tool doesn’t hurt. And negotiating add-ons—like service contracts or professional installation—can save you a bundle.
Shoppers who successfully negotiated large appliance prices in a Consumer Reports survey saved a median of $140, and those who bargained for smaller appliances could snag a median savings of $79. It can be tricky to haggle at national chains. However, local family-run stores and independent retailers are more receptive to negotiations. In addition to offering a lower price, you can snag a floor model or ask for free delivery and haul-away (if applicable). You might be able to sweeten the deal by mentioning competitors’ prices and asking for other discounts and freebies, such as a gas can, engine oil, or lawnmower blade. And you can always ask about financing options such as a home equity loan. Alternatively, you can get a revolving line of credit from your utility supplier.