How to Buy an Appliance

Many brands of appliances are on the market …

Often the basic appliance unit is the same for several brands, but the price increases as the added features increase. This is true on major appliances… to save money, don't buy more features than you really need.

Before you make a purchase, ask yourself if you really need the appliance. Some features on appliances save time and energy, and some add convenience but use more energy. Some are bought because of the novelty they provide. These extra features are seldom used once the novelty wears off, so you might not want to pay extra for these features. Sometimes an appliance doesn't really save time or energy because the set up and clean up are time consuming.

Before buying, consider where the appliance will be stored and used.

Often storage creates a problem that outweighs benefits. Be sure where you'll use it is wired adequately and that there's an outlet available. Don't use extension cords unless its absolutely necessary. Cords reduce efficiency and may be dangerous .

Once you've decided you really need the appliance and that you have room for it… consider the original price tag plus any installation, operating and maintenance costs. High operating costs may make energy-efficient models worth the initial higher price. For example: some new models of refrigerators and freezers are 50 percent more energy efficient than models 10 years old. Check the yellow and black Energy Guide Levels on major appliances for energy information.

Check the cost of credit.

If you can anticipate buying an appliance, try to save a little each month so you can pay cash and avoid the cost of installment buying. You may even get a lower price if you can pay cash. Anticipating your purchase will also give you time to get the information you need to buy wisely. If you know you'll be buying a major appliance, start reading advertisements, consumer magazines and buying guides available at your local library. Ask friends and relatives about the models they have and which features they use or don't use.

For large appliances, in particular, service may be important. If you are gone during the day, you'll need a reliable service person who makes calls after hours or on weekends.

Some appliances have a warranty or guarantee

Take time to read the written guarantee… don't just take the word of the salesperson. When you buy, remember to fill out and mail the warranty cards.

Look for safety seals and seals of approval. The UL seal (Underwriters' Laboratory) is probably the best known safety seal. Another seal, a blue star emblem, may be found on gas appliances. It means that the design and construction meet safety and performance standards of the American Gas Association Laboratories.

Some magazines and other groups have seals of approval, too, but they vary in their worth to the consumer. Don't assume that a seal assures quality. For the most part, appliances on the market do what they are designed to do. Your choice of brand and price will depend on personal preference and individual need rather than actual differences in function and quality.

For more information on choosing appliances for your home, contact your local county Extension office.