Best Places to Buy Appliances

Warranty availability

Not every appliance retailer offers extended warranty programs, but with such high-value purchases, a warranty is essential. Be sure to look at what each warranty encompasses and the duration of the warranty before making a purchase.

• Manufacturer's warranty: Retailers selling refurbished or store return models might not be able to offer the original manufacturer's warranty, so be sure to ask.
• Extended warranty length: Extended warranties can last for five years or more, but some retailers only cover up to three years. Review the options available before settling on the right retailer.
• Warranty exclusions/service: Some warranties only cover certain parts and labor, so there may still be a bill to pay after a repair call. Try to find the most complete coverage available, and make sure in-home service is included to avoid expensive freight and shipping costs.

Payment options

When making a big appliance purchase, many shoppers do not have cash up front. Flexible payments and lines of credit can make all the difference when deciding on a specific product.

• Store credit availability: A retailer might offer the option to apply for store credit. Look for retailers with financing deals that include extended periods of low to no interest.
• Layaway options: For those who don't qualify for financing or prefer to pay upfront, layaway allows some payment flexibility. Shoppers make payments on the purchase and pay in full prior to delivery.
• Credit card offers: Major retailers might offer a revolving line of credit on which to buy an appliance. This is different from a store card in that it can be used anywhere a credit card is accepted.

Package discounts

When buying several appliances, the cost can add up quickly, so be sure to look for retailers that offer discounts on matching or multiple appliance purchases.

• Washer/dryer pricing: It is not uncommon to see a single price for a washer and dryer combination. Buying them individually might up the price by as much as 30 percent.
• Dishwasher and disposal packages: Installing a dishwasher without a garbage disposal could cause frequent clogs, depending on the dishwasher model. Be sure to look into discounts on paired installation.
• Complete kitchen overhaul: When buying a refrigerator, range and dishwasher from the same manufacturer, ask about a package deal or discounted price.

Delivery

The cost of shipping on appliances can be sky high given their size and weight. Some retailers offer discounted or free delivery, depending on the price of the purchase.

• Delivery included: When delivery is included in the price, it can help keep the total cost down, but check to see about installation services as this may have an extra cost associated.
• Take away services: Getting rid of the old, broken appliance can be a hassle. When retailers offer take away services, the old one goes out when the new appliance arrives.
• Deliver speed: Check with the retailer about shipping times. Sometimes it is worth paying a little more to avoid a lengthy wait time on delivery.

Cost

Expense can play a big role in the eventual choice of retailer, but with price matching options, shoppers might be able to shop locally and still get the lowest available price.

• Price matching: Retailers often run sales, but to avoid buying from an unfamiliar store, check out the different price matching options.
• Sales and discounts: For those looking to upgrade rather than replace a broken appliance, some research into the sales cycle might be a good idea. Appliance sales are often seasonal, so by waiting, shoppers might be able to get a top of the line model at a more affordable price tag.
• Floor models: Buying a floor model might offer some extra buying power. Sometimes even small imperfections can drive an appliance price down considerably.

Customer service

When making any major purchase, customer service and company reputation play an important role. The right company will explain all of the options and offer transparent pricing.

• No hassle service: Read reviews and check on other customer experiences before choosing a retailer. This helps avoid pushy salespeople and confusing information.
• Transparent service and pricing: A surprise total at the register could cause a purchase delay. During the sale, all additional fees should be disclosed and explained.
• Check the return policy: Make sure that the retailer accepts returns with no explanation needed. A new appliance may wind up underperforming, not matching a decor change or take up too much space.

Big box stores

These large retailers carry a wide variety of products in addition to appliances. This can make shopping easy as shoppers can often find accessories and other household goods along with their appliances.

Specialty retailers

These retailers only sell electronics and appliance-related products. They often carry more brands and premium options.

Price clubs

Although the selection is not as big as some of the other retailers, price clubs often have unbeatable prices.

Refurbished warehouses

As long as companies offer an extended warranty, buying from a company that refurbishes products can be a great way to get top of the line appliances at a discount price.