A neighbor bought a beautiful French door refrigerator last year. Gorgeous stainless steel, smart features, ice maker in the door. One problem: it was half an inch too wide for the cutout in her kitchen. The delivery crew brought it in, tried to position it, shook their heads, and loaded it right back on the truck. She ate the $150 restocking fee and started over.
That’s the kind of mistake the right appliance buying questions prevent entirely. Major appliances are one of the few purchases where a wrong choice costs you hundreds in fees and weeks of your time. The average household spends $2,000 to $5,000 on appliances over a five-year period, and most people buy based on looks and brand name instead of the details that actually matter: dimensions, energy efficiency, reliability, and total cost of ownership. These 15 questions help you buy smarter.
Before You Shop
Major appliance purchases should start in your home, not in the store. Preparation prevents the most common (and most expensive) mistakes.
- Measure the space, including depth, width, height, and clearances. Measure three times. Include the space needed for door swing, ventilation clearance behind the unit, and the path from your front door to the installation location. Write every measurement down.
- Check your electrical and plumbing setup. Does your kitchen have a 240V outlet for an electric range, or only a gas line? Is your laundry hookup set up for a standard top-loader or a front-loader? Is the water supply line for the refrigerator already in place? Adapting your home to fit the appliance costs $200 to $1,000+.
- Research reliability data before you shop for features. Consumer Reports and Yale Appliance publish annual reliability rankings based on service call data. A gorgeous appliance that breaks down every 18 months is a headache, not a purchase to be proud of.
- Set a budget that includes delivery, installation, and haul-away. The sticker price isn’t the total cost. Add $50 to $200 for delivery, $100 to $300 for installation (especially for dishwashers, ranges, and built-in microwaves), and $25 to $75 for old appliance removal.
- Know which features you’ll actually use versus which ones look good in the showroom. A smart refrigerator with a touchscreen and built-in cameras costs $800 to $1,500 more than a comparable model without those features. If you’ll use them daily, great. If they’re novelty features that gather dust (and become obsolete faster than the appliance itself), save the money.
Sizing and Installation Questions
1. What are the exact dimensions, and will it fit my space?
This is question number one for a reason. Appliances that don’t fit get returned, and returns on major appliances are painful and expensive.
Measure the width, depth, and height of your available space. Then add clearance requirements: most refrigerators need 1 to 2 inches on the sides and top for ventilation, and ranges need specific clearances from cabinets and combustible materials (check the installation guide).
Also measure every doorway, hallway, and staircase between your front door and the installation spot. A 36-inch wide refrigerator won’t fit through a 32-inch doorway. This is the number one reason for failed deliveries, and the solution (removing doors from hinges, using an alternative entrance) adds time and frustration.
Pro tip: check the depth with and without the doors and handles. A refrigerator listed as “30 inches deep” might be 34 inches with the doors and 36 inches with the handles. Counter-depth models are designed to sit flush with standard 24-inch deep cabinets, but they sacrifice 4 to 6 cubic feet of interior space.
2. What electrical or plumbing requirements does this appliance need?
Mismatched hookups are the second most common installation failure. Know what your home has before you shop.
Electric ranges and dryers require a 240V outlet (the large, four-prong outlet). Gas models require a gas supply line and a standard 120V outlet. Dishwashers need a dedicated 120V circuit, a hot water supply line, and a drain connection. Refrigerators with water/ice dispensers need a cold water supply line.
If you’re switching fuel types (gas to electric or vice versa), the conversion cost ranges from $200 to $800 depending on what needs to be installed. Get a quote from an electrician or plumber before committing to the appliance.
3. Does installation come with the purchase, or is it separate?
Some retailers include basic installation with delivery. Others charge separately. The gap between “included” and “separate” can be $100 to $400, depending on the appliance.
Basic installation typically covers: connecting to existing hookups, leveling the appliance, and testing it. It does not typically cover: running new electrical circuits, installing new gas lines, modifying cabinetry, or moving water supply lines. Those are separate jobs requiring licensed professionals.
Ask specifically: “What does your installation include? What scenarios would result in the installer not being able to complete the installation? What’s the cost for those additional services?” Getting answers upfront prevents the awkward moment when the installer arrives, looks at your setup, and says they can’t do the job.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Cost Questions
4. What is the Energy Star rating, and how much will it cost to operate annually?
The yellow EnergyGuide label on every appliance shows the estimated annual operating cost and how the model compares to similar appliances. This information is worth reading, because operating costs over the life of the appliance can exceed the purchase price.
A refrigerator runs 24/7 for 10 to 20 years. An Energy Star certified model uses 10% to 50% less energy than the federal minimum standard. On a refrigerator, that difference is $20 to $60 per year. Over 15 years, that’s $300 to $900 in electricity savings.
For washers, Energy Star models use about 25% less energy and 33% less water than standard models. At current utility rates, that’s $50 to $100 per year in savings. A $100 premium for the Energy Star model pays for itself within 1 to 2 years.
5. What will this appliance cost me per year in energy and water?
The sticker price is the upfront cost. The operating cost is the ongoing cost, and it adds up fast.
Here are typical annual operating costs for major appliances in 2026. Refrigerator: $50 to $120 per year. Clothes dryer (electric): $60 to $100 per year. Clothes washer: $15 to $50 per year in energy, plus $30 to $80 in water. Dishwasher: $25 to $50 per year. Electric range/oven: $50 to $100 per year.
Over a 10-year ownership period, the difference between an efficient model and an inefficient one can total $500 to $1,500. That’s real money, and it should factor into your purchase decision alongside the sticker price.
Some utilities also offer rebates of $50 to $300 for purchasing Energy Star certified appliances. Check your local utility’s website before you buy.
Reliability and Warranty Questions
6. What is the reliability track record for this brand and model?
This question separates experienced appliance buyers from first-timers. Brand reputation is built on marketing. Reliability data is built on service call rates.
According to Yale Appliance’s service data (which covers tens of thousands of units), the most reliable appliance brands consistently include: Bosch and Miele for dishwashers, Speed Queen for laundry, and LG for refrigerators. Samsung, despite its popularity, has historically higher service rates on certain product lines (refrigerators in particular).
Consumer Reports publishes member-reported reliability data annually. Pay attention to the specific appliance category, not just the brand name overall. A brand that makes excellent dishwashers might make mediocre refrigerators.
7. What does the warranty cover, and for how long?
Standard appliance warranties cover parts and labor for 1 year. Some brands extend coverage on specific components: compressors on refrigerators often have 5 to 10 year warranties. Bosch offers a 2-year full warranty on most models. Miele offers 1 year standard with an optional extension to 5 years.
Read beyond the headline. A “10-year warranty” on a compressor might cover only the part, not the $200 to $400 labor to install it. A “limited warranty” might exclude certain components or scenarios.
If you’re considering an extended warranty, compare the cost to the likely repair cost. An extended warranty on a $600 dishwasher that costs $150 is marginal. On a $3,000 refrigerator that costs $200, the math starts to work, especially if the brand has higher-than-average service rates.
8. What is the expected lifespan of this appliance?
Appliance lifespans have declined over the past 20 years. Your grandparents’ washing machine lasted 25 years. The average modern washing machine lasts 10 to 13 years. That’s partly because manufacturers use cheaper components and partly because electronics add failure points that mechanical-only designs didn’t have.
Average expected lifespans (2026): Refrigerator: 10 to 18 years. Dishwasher: 9 to 12 years. Washing machine: 10 to 13 years. Dryer: 10 to 14 years. Range/oven: 13 to 18 years. Microwave: 7 to 10 years.
Simpler designs tend to last longer. A basic top-load washer with fewer electronic controls will typically outlast a feature-packed front-loader with a touchscreen and Wi-Fi. That doesn’t mean you should avoid modern features, but understand the tradeoff between complexity and longevity.
Features and Functionality Questions
9. Which features will I actually use regularly, and which are gimmicks?
This is the question appliance salespeople don’t want you to ask yourself honestly. Every feature adds cost, complexity, and potential failure points.
Features worth paying for: adjustable shelves and bins in refrigerators (flexibility saves frustration), steam cycles in washers (better stain removal), third racks in dishwashers (fits more items per load), convection in ovens (even cooking, shorter cook times).
Features that sound cool but rarely justify the cost: built-in cameras in refrigerators ($500+ premium for a feature most people use twice), Wi-Fi connectivity in most appliances (marginal utility except for remote dryer monitoring), touchscreen controls (slower than knobs and prone to failure), smart home integration for basic appliances (opening an app to check if the dishwasher is done is slower than walking to the kitchen). If you want smart functionality on a budget, a smart plug ($10 to $25) can add basic monitoring and scheduling to many existing appliances.
Before paying for a premium feature, ask: “Will I use this weekly?” If the answer is no, skip it and pocket the savings.
10. How noisy is this appliance during operation?
Noise levels matter more than people anticipate, especially in open-concept homes where the kitchen connects to living areas. A loud dishwasher running during dinner conversation, or a washing machine that shakes the floor during spin cycles, becomes a daily irritation.
Dishwashers are measured in decibels (dB). Under 44 dB is considered “quiet” and you’ll barely hear it in the next room. 44 to 50 dB is “normal” and audible in the same room. Above 50 dB is loud. Most premium dishwashers run 38 to 44 dB. Budget models hit 50 to 55 dB.
Washing machines and dryers: front-loaders are generally quieter than top-loaders. Anti-vibration technology (available in many mid-range and premium models) reduces the shaking and noise during spin cycles. If your laundry room shares a wall with a bedroom, this feature is worth the premium.
11. Is this appliance easy to clean and maintain?
Some appliances are designed to be cleaned easily. Others seem designed to punish anyone who tries. Ask about maintenance before you buy, because you’ll be doing it for the next decade.
Refrigerators with removable, adjustable glass shelves are much easier to clean than fixed wire shelves. Smooth-top electric ranges are easier to wipe down than gas ranges with grates and burner covers, but they scratch more easily. Self-cleaning ovens save hours of scrubbing but produce smoke and odor during the cycle.
For dishwashers, a removable filter that’s easy to access and clean is essential. Older models with self-cleaning hard food disposers don’t require manual filter cleaning, but they’re noisier and less common in new models.
Purchase and Delivery Questions
12. What is included with the appliance (power cord, hoses, connectors)?
Not every appliance comes with everything you need to install it. This catches people off guard constantly.
Electric dryers typically do NOT include the power cord (costs $20 to $30). Refrigerators typically do NOT include the water line for the ice maker (costs $10 to $25). Dishwashers may or may not include the drain hose and supply line. Washers usually include fill hoses but check.
Ask the retailer: “Does this come with everything I need for installation, or do I need to purchase additional parts?” A $3 power cord adapter or a $15 water supply line is a minor cost, but discovering you need it during installation is frustrating.
13. What is the return policy, and is there a restocking fee?
Major appliance return policies are less generous than you’d expect. Most retailers allow returns within 48 hours of delivery if the product is defective. Returning a functional appliance because you changed your mind or it doesn’t fit typically costs a 15% to 25% restocking fee plus the delivery charge.
On a $2,000 refrigerator, a 15% restocking fee is $300. Add the $100 delivery fee, and you’re out $400 before you’ve bought a replacement.
This is why measuring correctly (question 1) and verifying hookup compatibility (question 2) before purchasing is so important. Getting it right the first time saves you hundreds. Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Best Buy have specific appliance return policies that differ from their general return policies. Read them before purchasing.
14. How long will delivery take, and can I schedule a specific time?
Standard delivery for in-stock appliances takes 3 to 10 business days from most major retailers. Out-of-stock or special-order items can take 2 to 8 weeks. Premium brands (Sub-Zero, Miele, Thermador) can have lead times of 4 to 12+ weeks.
Most retailers offer delivery windows (morning or afternoon) but not exact times. Some offer premium scheduling for an additional fee ($20 to $50) that narrows the window to 2 hours.
If you’re replacing a kitchen appliance (refrigerator, range) and will be without it during the wait, plan accordingly. A mini fridge ($100 to rent or $150 to buy) can bridge the gap. Don’t let delivery pressure push you into buying the wrong appliance just because it’s in stock.
15. Will the delivery team haul away my old appliance?
Old appliance removal costs $25 to $75 per unit at most retailers. Some include haul-away with delivery. Others charge separately. A few don’t offer it at all, leaving you to arrange disposal yourself.
Recycling an old refrigerator or freezer through your local utility might earn you a $25 to $75 rebate. Many utilities run appliance recycling programs specifically for refrigerators and freezers because of the energy savings (replacing a 15-year-old fridge can cut energy use by 50%).
If the retailer doesn’t offer haul-away, check with your municipality. Many cities offer bulky item pickup for free or a small fee ($20 to $50). Some scrap metal recyclers will pick up old appliances for free because of the metal value.
What to Bring When Appliance Shopping
- Written measurements of your space, including clearances. Width, depth, height, and the space needed for door swing, ventilation, and hookup access. Include every doorway dimension between your entry and the installation location.
- Photos of your current hookups. A photo of the electrical outlet, gas connection, or plumbing setup helps the salesperson confirm compatibility without guessing. This takes 30 seconds and prevents a $300 compatibility mistake.
- Your current appliance’s model number. If you’re replacing an existing unit, the model number tells the salesperson exactly what size and hookup type you currently have. Find it on a sticker inside the door or on the back of the unit.
- Your utility rate information. If energy costs are a factor (they should be), knowing your per-kilowatt-hour rate lets you calculate actual annual operating costs from the EnergyGuide label. Check your latest electric bill.
- A list of must-have vs. nice-to-have features. Separate what you need from what looks cool. A must-have might be “fits my 33-inch opening.” A nice-to-have might be “smart home compatible.” This prevents feature creep in the showroom.
- A phone with a calculator. For comparing total cost of ownership (purchase price + delivery + installation + annual operating cost over 10 years). The cheapest appliance to buy is not always the cheapest to own.
Typical Cost Range and Factors
Here’s what major appliances actually cost in 2026, from budget to premium.
Refrigerator: Budget: $600 to $1,000 (top-freezer, basic). Midrange: $1,200 to $2,500 (French door, stainless). Premium: $2,500 to $5,000+ (built-in, counter-depth, smart features). Counter-depth models cost $200 to $500 more than standard depth.
Dishwasher: Budget: $400 to $600 (basic cleaning, louder). Midrange: $600 to $1,000 (quiet, stainless tub, third rack). Premium: $1,000 to $2,000+ (ultra-quiet, specialized cycles, advanced drying).
Washing Machine: Budget: $400 to $700 (top-load agitator). Midrange: $700 to $1,200 (front-load or top-load impeller, steam). Premium: $1,200 to $2,000+ (large capacity, advanced cycles, Wi-Fi).
Dryer: Budget: $400 to $600 (basic electric). Midrange: $600 to $1,000 (steam refresh, sensor dry). Premium: $1,000 to $2,000+ (heat pump, ventless, smart features). Heat pump dryers cost $300 to $600 more but use 28% less energy.
Range/Oven: Budget: $500 to $900 (basic electric or gas). Midrange: $900 to $2,000 (convection, continuous grates on gas). Premium: $2,000 to $5,000+ (dual fuel, pro-style, double oven).
Delivery and Installation: Standard delivery: $50 to $150. Installation (basic hookup): $100 to $200. Complex installation (new circuits, gas lines): $300 to $800+. Old appliance haul-away: $25 to $75.
Key Price Factors: Brand reputation (premium brands charge 30% to 100% more), finish (stainless steel adds $50 to $200 over white or black), features (smart connectivity adds $200 to $500), capacity (larger sizes cost 10% to 20% more), and energy efficiency (Energy Star models may cost slightly more upfront but save in operating costs).
Red Flags vs. Green Flags
| Red Flag | Green Flag |
|---|---|
| Brand has high service call rates in reliability data. If 20%+ of units need service in the first year, that’s a pattern, not bad luck. Check Yale Appliance and Consumer Reports before buying any brand. | Brand consistently ranks in the top tier for reliability in its category. Low service rates mean you’re less likely to deal with breakdowns, warranty claims, and the hassle of scheduling repairs. |
| Salesperson pushes extended warranty aggressively. When the pitch for the warranty is harder than the pitch for the appliance, it suggests the store expects the product to have problems. Or they’re just chasing commission. Either way, it’s a red flag. | Salesperson mentions the warranty casually and accepts “no” without pushback. A brief mention of available coverage, a clear explanation, and respect for your decision. That’s how it should work. |
| No EnergyGuide label or energy data available. Every major appliance sold in the US is required to have an EnergyGuide label. If the data isn’t available, the model may not meet federal efficiency standards. | Clear EnergyGuide data with annual cost estimates and comparison to similar models. Transparency about energy consumption shows a manufacturer confident in their product’s efficiency. |
| ”Smart” features that require a proprietary app with poor reviews. A refrigerator camera that needs a 2-star app to function will be a frustration, not a feature. Check app store reviews for the manufacturer’s smart home app before buying a connected appliance. | Smart features that integrate with major platforms (Google Home, Alexa, Apple HomeKit). Broad compatibility ensures the features will work with your existing smart home setup and are more likely to receive continued support. |
| Delivery timeline is vague or keeps slipping. “4 to 8 weeks” is already a wide window. If it becomes 10 to 12 weeks with no communication, the retailer is either overselling inventory they don’t have or managing their supply chain poorly. | Clear delivery timeline with proactive updates if anything changes. The retailer provides a specific window, sends tracking information, and contacts you immediately if there’s a delay. |
| Restocking fee exceeds 15% on a standard return. Some retailers charge 20% to 25%, which means losing $400 to $625 on a $2,500 refrigerator you return. That’s excessive and designed to trap you into keeping an appliance that doesn’t fit or meet your expectations. | Reasonable return policy (48 hours for damage, 15 days for exchanges) with restocking fees at or below 15%. Fair terms that acknowledge things sometimes don’t work out without punishing the customer excessively. |
Money-Saving Tips
- Buy during holiday sales for the best discounts. Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday offer 15% to 30% off major appliances at all major retailers. If your current appliance can hold out another month, waiting for a sale event can save $200 to $800.
- Buy the previous year’s model. When new models arrive (usually fall), last year’s models are clearanced at 20% to 40% off. The feature differences between model years are usually minor. A 2025 model on clearance in October 2026 is often the best value available.
- Bundle multiple appliances for a package discount. Buying a full kitchen suite (refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave) from one brand and retailer often unlocks 10% to 20% package pricing plus manufacturer rebates of $200 to $1,000. Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Best Buy all offer appliance bundles.
- Check for utility rebates before purchasing. Your local electric or gas utility may offer $50 to $300 rebates on Energy Star appliances. These stack with manufacturer rebates and sale pricing. Visit dsireusa.org or your utility’s website to check available rebates.
- Skip the unnecessary premium features. A basic dishwasher that cleans well and runs quietly is all most people need. The Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and 12 specialty cycles on the $1,500 model aren’t $600 better than the $900 model. Buy the features you’ll use daily, not the ones that look good on a spec sheet.
- Buy your own power cord and water supply line. Retailers charge $30 to $60 for a dryer power cord that costs $15 at a hardware store. Same for water supply lines and other installation accessories. Buy them yourself for half the price.
- Negotiate at local appliance stores. Independent appliance dealers have more pricing flexibility than big box retailers. They’ll match big box prices and often include delivery and installation at a lower total cost. It’s worth getting a quote from a local store even if you plan to buy from a chain.
- Consider scratch-and-dent models. Cosmetic damage (a small scratch on the side, a dent on the back) doesn’t affect performance. Scratch-and-dent appliances sell for 20% to 50% off regular price. Many retailers have a dedicated section or outlet store. If the damaged area faces a wall, nobody will ever see it.
Quick Reference Checklist
- Measured space (width, depth, height) with clearances for ventilation and door swing
- Measured doorways, hallways, and stairwells along the delivery path
- Verified electrical outlet type or gas line compatibility
- Verified plumbing hookups (water supply, drain) where needed
- Researched brand reliability data for the specific appliance category
- Compared Energy Star ratings and annual operating costs
- Checked for utility rebates on Energy Star models
- Separated must-have features from nice-to-have features
- Compared noise levels (dB) if the appliance is in or near a living area
- Asked about warranty coverage (parts, labor, specific components)
- Confirmed what’s included in the box (power cord, hoses, fittings)
- Asked about delivery cost, installation scope, and haul-away
- Read the return policy and restocking fee terms
- Checked delivery timeline for in-stock versus special order
- Calculated total cost of ownership (purchase + delivery + installation + 10-year energy cost)
Glossary
Energy Star: A US government-backed certification for energy-efficient products. Appliances that earn the Energy Star label meet or exceed strict efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and Department of Energy. Energy Star certified appliances use 10% to 50% less energy than the federal minimum standard.
EnergyGuide Label: The bright yellow label required on most major appliances sold in the US. It shows the estimated annual energy cost, the energy consumption in kWh, and how the model compares to similar appliances. Use it to compare operating costs between models.
Counter-Depth Refrigerator: A refrigerator designed to sit flush with standard 24-inch deep kitchen cabinets. They look built-in and save floor space but sacrifice 4 to 6 cubic feet of interior storage compared to standard-depth models. Expect to pay $200 to $500 more for a counter-depth design.
Heat Pump Dryer: A dryer that uses a heat pump to recycle warm air instead of venting it outside. Heat pump dryers use up to 28% less energy than conventional dryers and don’t require external venting (making them ideal for apartments and interior laundry rooms). They cost $300 to $600 more upfront but save $30 to $50 per year in energy.
BTU (British Thermal Unit): A measurement of heating capacity used for gas ranges. Higher BTU burners heat faster and reach higher temperatures. A standard home burner produces 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs. Pro-style ranges offer 15,000 to 25,000+ BTUs on at least one burner.
Helpful Tools and Resources
Power surges can fry expensive appliance electronics instantly. A $20 to $40 appliance surge protector is cheap insurance for a $2,000 refrigerator or a $1,500 washer with a digital control board.
Built-in temperature displays on refrigerators and freezers can be off by several degrees. A $10 digital thermometer confirms your fridge is actually running at 37 degrees and your freezer at 0 degrees, protecting your food and catching problems early.
If your refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker, the filter needs replacing every 6 months. Third-party filters cost $10 to $20 versus $40 to $60 for the brand-name version, and they work just as well.
- Yale Appliance Blog - Hands-on appliance reviews and reliability data from a retailer that services tens of thousands of appliances annually. Their annual “Most Reliable Appliance Brands” report is based on real service call data, not opinions.
- Consumer Reports Appliance Ratings - Lab-tested ratings for every major appliance category. They buy products anonymously, test them in standardized conditions, and publish reliability predictions based on member surveys. Subscription required ($39/year).
- EnergyStar.gov - Search for certified products by category, compare energy costs, and find utility rebates in your area. The rebate finder tool is particularly useful and often surfaces discounts people don’t know about.
- DSIRE (Database of State Incentives) - A comprehensive database of energy efficiency rebates and incentives by state. Covers utility rebates, state tax credits, and other programs that can reduce the cost of energy-efficient appliances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a major appliance last?
Ranges and ovens last the longest (13 to 18 years). Refrigerators run 10 to 18 years. Washers and dryers average 10 to 13 years. Dishwashers typically last 9 to 12 years. Microwaves are the shortest-lived at 7 to 10 years. These are averages; actual lifespan depends on usage, maintenance, and build quality.
Is it worth paying more for a premium brand?
Sometimes. Premium brands like Bosch, Miele, and Speed Queen charge more but consistently deliver better reliability, quieter operation, and longer lifespans. Mass-market brands like Samsung and LG offer more features per dollar but have higher service rates on certain product lines. The best approach: check reliability data for the specific appliance category, not just the brand name overall.
Should I repair or replace a broken appliance?
General rule: if the repair costs more than 50% of a new replacement and the appliance is more than halfway through its expected lifespan, replace it. A $400 repair on a 10-year-old dishwasher that costs $800 new is a bad investment. A $150 repair on a 3-year-old refrigerator that costs $2,000 new is worth it.
Do I need to buy all matching appliances from one brand?
No. Matching brand suites look cohesive, but you don’t need to sacrifice reliability or features for a matching logo. A Bosch dishwasher, LG refrigerator, and GE range can look perfectly fine together if they share a similar finish (stainless steel, for example). Buy the best appliance in each category rather than forcing a single-brand suite.
Are scratch-and-dent appliances worth buying?
Absolutely. Cosmetic imperfections don’t affect performance. A dent on the side of a refrigerator that sits between cabinets is invisible once installed. Savings of 20% to 50% off retail are common. The standard manufacturer warranty still applies. The only downside: limited selection, and you get what’s available rather than choosing your preferred model.
Next Steps
Start with measurements. Measure your space, your hookups, and your delivery path. Do it now, before you set foot in a store or open a browser. This single step prevents the most common and most expensive appliance buying mistake.
Next, research reliability. Yale Appliance and Consumer Reports give you data-driven insight into which brands and models hold up over time. Five minutes of research prevents years of headaches with a breakdown-prone appliance.
Then set your budget based on total cost of ownership, not sticker price. A $600 washer that costs $80/year in energy and water over 10 years costs $1,400 total. A $900 Energy Star washer that costs $40/year costs $1,300 total. The “more expensive” washer is actually cheaper to own.
Finally, time your purchase if you can. Holiday sales, end-of-model-year clearance, and manufacturer rebates can save you 15% to 40% off the regular price. If your current appliance is limping but functional, waiting two months for a sale could save you $200 to $800. That patience is worth a lot.