If you’re lucky enough to have the time to plan out when you’d like to purchase a new household appliance, you can find great deals by shopping a specific time of the year.
According to moneycrashers.com, there are certain times of the year that are best for purchasing washers, dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators, stoves/ranges and more.
Try to get a rough idea of when your appliance will go out of commission. See our blog post on the life expectancy on appliances, part 1 and part 2. Then, plan your purchase before the appliance breaks to ensure you get the best bang for your buck.
Best Time To Buy a New Appliance
1. September and October: The best time to buy most major appliances is during the months of September and October. During these two months, manufacturers unveil their latest models. This means that the previous year’s models must be discounted in order to make room for the new models that will hit stores in the winter.
2. May: The exception to point number one is refrigerators. Unlike the other major appliances, most manufacturers roll out their new models of refrigerators in the summer. This means that last year’s models get discounted during the spring.
3. January: Some stores hang on to older inventory while they make the transition from last year’s models to the next. But once the new year hits, all of last year’s remaining models must be discounted even further. Though better deals may be available at this time, selection will be limited.
4. Any Holiday Weekend: Retailers have sales that correspond to virtually all holidays. Columbus Day, President’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and most other minor holidays are good times to get great deals. Case in point, Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) can be a perfect time to purchase a major appliance.
Tip: Just because a retailer advertises an item on sale doesn’t mean it’s the best price. Make sure you comparison shop first to know whether or not the advertised deal is really the lowest around.
5. End of the Month: As many appliances are sold on commission or subject to quotas, the end of the month can be an excellent time to negotiate serious savings. With that said, always try to negotiate regardless of what time of the month it is. After all, the worst that can happen is they won’t lower the price.
6. Weekdays: Appliance stores as well as furniture stores are nightmares on the weekends. The parking lots are jammed, the sales people are all busy, and you may feel rushed into a decision. To get the best deal, avoid the weekend rush and make time for your appliance shopping during the week, even if that means adjusting your work schedule or going in the evening. You’ll get more attention from the salesperson, and possibly a better deal to boot.
7. Anytime Online: By just running a quick search, you can get a good idea where the best deal is online. The best months to buy online don’t differ from the best months to buy in brick and mortar stores, but good online prices can be found year-round. Just remember to factor shipping into the final cost.
What If You Need an Appliance Now?
As much as you might like to time your large appliance purchase to get the best deal, it is not always possible. If an appliance breaks unexpectedly, you’ll have to decide whether to make a costly repair or buy a new appliance even if rock bottom prices are months away. In these cases, consider alternatives to buying brand new.
1. Craigslist When our washer went out but the dryer was in great working order. We placed the dryer on Craigslist so we could buy a matching new set. The couple that purchased from us needed a dryer because their dryer went out but the washer was still working great. Turning to Craigslist to find a gently used washer and dryer can save you money and help you avoid being overwhelmed with the number of options at a retail store.
2. Refurbishing Center These stores can sell you items they have bought from others and fixed up and even purchase your item to them to fix up and sell to someone else. You won’t get a brand new appliance but you can get one better and newer than you had – and at a great price.
3. Scratch and Dent You can get appliances at steep discounts if they have even a tiny, insignificant little dent. When you are shopping, check with your salesperson to see if they have any scratch and dent merchandise. Even if the scratch is in an area that won’t be seen/noticed, you can receive a discount.
4. Liquidation Centers Liquidation centers can have liquidation, closeout, return, and overstock items available for purchase at a fraction of the cost.
Where and when have you found great deals on appliances in the Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel, Greenwood (and surrounding) areas?
– S.O.
