Appliances are some of the most costly items you’ll purchase for your home. Whether you’re outfitting a new home or replacing something that’s past its prime, it pays to shop smart when shopping for appliances. Here are a few ways you can get quality machines without breaking the bank.
Timing is everything
Good timing can mean savings of hundreds of dollars.
Many manufacturers roll out new models in September and October, so Labor Day weekend can be a good time to save. Plan to check out Amazon, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Best Buy for super savings, as these retailers typically have the widest selection of deals. Last year, you could save up to 40 percent on major appliances at Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Shop holiday sales. Good deals can be found in October around Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, as well as Black Friday/Cyber Monday.
You can also find deals during other holidays like President’s Day, the 4th of July, and the aforementioned Labor Day. May is another favorite, as there will be Memorial Day sales, as well as Maytag Month, which is a month-long savings event.
March and April are also a good time to look, and some new refrigerator models will roll out in June and July.
PRO TIP: If you need more than one appliance, shop bundle deals. Buying multiple appliances together can help you stack savings.
Shop and save online
In general, it’s easier to comparison shop online rather than when you’re in the store. I suggest going in-store to select a few favorites, then go home and browse online for deals.
Some appliance retailers make it easy to look for deals. Look on retailer websites for discount sections like Lowe’s Savings page, Samsung’s Offers section, or The Home Depot Appliance Savings section. Many of these offers allow you to save $100 or more on an appliance.
Now, compare what online retailers offering in terms of savings and compare to the brand’s offer. Also, look at deal sites for coupons and cash back offers that can be layered onto sales.
If your need isn’t urgent, consider setting a deal alert for it on Slickdeals. This site will notify you once that item goes on sale so you don’t have to waste your precious time looking for deals.
Save with open box items
Open-box products are returned items, floor models, or products that were opened by the store for quality inspection. Many of these products are in new – or like new – condition. Those with slight wear and tear are further discounted. If you’re shopping at Best Buy, these products are covered by Best Buy’s Return and Exchange Promise.
You can also buy returned or lightly damaged (but still completely functional) items from Lowe’s. These “scratch and dent” items are generally marked down already but don’t be afraid to ask for an extra 10 percent off if the damages are noticeable.
Let the retailer work for you
Lowe’s and The Home Depot both offer free local delivery on most appliances, and you can often arrange a pickup of your old appliance at the same time, which has been a game-changer for me. Both stores also offer free in-store and curbside pick-up for online purchases.
If you are shopping in-store, get friendly with the appliance experts. They often can share how to get better, unadvertised deals and discounts on installs. Plus, it’s just nice to be friendly!
Shop around for the best deals, and if your favorite store doesn’t have a sale on what you’re looking for, see if they’ll match the price of a competitor’s sale. The Home Depot, Walmart, Best Buy, and Lowe’s offer price matching on items carried online or in-store by most major competitors.
The retailer will offer an extended warranty, which always comes with an additional price tag and the expense is often not worth it.
PRO TIP: Pay for your appliances with a credit card that offers warranty coverage. Many credit cards even double the warranty offered by the manufacturer.
Rebates
Both The Home Depot and Lowe’s have rebate centers. On their website, search for the product you want to purchase to find out if there are any rebates available. Submit the rebate within 30 days to get rebates in the form of prepaid Visa cards.
ENERGY STAR is a government-backed program that can help you find energy-efficient appliances at a great price. Just enter your zip code in the online Rebate Finder to find rebates, tax credits, and special offers on appliances like a credit on qualifying water heaters.
Pin It!
Leave a Reply