There are many factors to consider when shopping for a home appliance. Are you looking for something small and basic or something more high-end? What’s your budget? Do you have space constraints? Do you want the latest and greatest, or would older models work better for your needs? Our selection of guides makes it easy by outlining everything from the types of appliances available to what differentiates them.
How to Buy a Refrigerator
Size is the first thing to consider when buying a refrigerator. There are over 6 types of refrigerators in the market, and each has different dimensions and styles. The most common types are built-in, counter-depth, under-counter, French door, side-by-side, top-mounted, and bottom-mounted fridges.
Energy efficiency is just as crucial as the size of the fridge. Energy Star Qualified refrigerators are more energy efficient and can save you more energy costs. Our ultimate refrigerator guide has more tips to help you find the perfect fridge for your family.
How to Buy a Freezer
Freezers can be classified into two categories: standalone and built-in. Standalone freezers are further divided into three groups: chest, upright, and under-counter ice makers.
Both styles have pros and cons depending on factors like space, cost, and energy consumption. Learn about other considerations to make before buying a freezer in this guide.
How to Buy a Cooktop
Do you want an electric or gas cooktop? What size do you need? Is color a priority? It’s also important to consider the number of burners and which ones will be most useful in your kitchen. Use this guide to learn about buying a cooktop.
How to Buy a Cooking Range
Some things to consider when buying a cooking range include the size and features of the cooktop surface, the oven capacity and configuration, and fuel type. You may also want to consider the design aesthetic and controls. Our range buying guide will help you choose that and more!
How to Buy an Oven
The choice of an oven depends on factors like the type of cooking and baking you do and the fuel type you prefer. If you want to cook with convection heat or bake with a fan-forced oven, then a gas stove might not be your best option. Your needs will also vary depending on how much counter space you have and the budget. Find out more about other features, such as the colors, finishes, and designs, in our ultimate oven buying guide.
How to Buy a Dishwasher
The size of your kitchen is the first thing you need to consider before buying a dishwasher. Make sure your model fits perfectly within the allotted space to make it convenient for you. Also, consider what color would best suit your kitchen based on the style you want.
You should also consider efficiency. Is there an eco-friendly option that will save money on electricity and water bills? Other factors to consider include performance, noise levels, and other features discussed in this dishwasher buying guide.
How to Buy a Microwave
Microwaves come in a variety of brands, sizes, shapes, and colors. They also have different features like buttons, presets, and timers that make them useful for various purposes.
Key things to consider include what your cooking needs are, how much space is available in your kitchen, and how important it is for the appliance to match other
appliances in your kitchen. Read more about different brands and their significant differences in our ultimate microwave buying guide.
How to Buy a Built-In Coffee Machine
Coffee machines are an aesthetically pleasing addition to any kitchen and provide easy access to freshly brewed cups of joe with just the touch of a button. Most built-in machines generally have a few basic features: an auto-start timer that wakes you up in the morning with freshly brewed coffee; an option to make both iced or hot coffee; and automatic milk frothing capabilities. A built-in coffee machine allows you to enjoy the full barista experience in the comfort of your own home, other features are discussed in this Built-In Coffee Machine Buying Guide.
How to Buy a Mixer
There are a wide range of stand mixers on the market, but KitchenAid stand mixers are considered to be a cut above the competition. Known for their quality, endurance, and versatility, you won’t go wrong with a KitchenAid. Don’t worry if you don’t know how to choose a KitchenAid stand mixer – our KitchenAid stand mixer guide will help you choose the perfect mixer for your kitchen.
How to Buy a Washing Machine
To get the best value for money, buy a suitably sized washer based on your needs. A larger capacity model is a better choice for people with large families and those who often do big loads of laundry. A compact model may be better for smaller families.
Other factors include design preference (top loading or front loading), energy and efficiency, and whether or not there’s an agitator. This guide should help you find the perfect washing machine for your needs!
How to Buy a Dryer
Type is the first thing you should consider when buying a new dryer. Gas dryers are typically more energy efficient, and they dry clothes faster. Electric dryers come in more models and are cheaper to repair. Consider the drawbacks of each type before making your purchase. Other factors to consider include the dryer design, size, capacity, features, and controls. Find out more in our dryer buying guide.
FAQs About Appliance Buying
What is the most important appliance in your home?
The answer depends on your lifestyle and personal preferences. For example, a family with kids would find the refrigerator more valuable than someone without children who doesn’t cook much. If you have kids who need snacks constantly or someone who loves to cook, then maybe it would be the range.
Generally, an appliance that does more than one job is essential. Appliances like a smart oven can save time and space by combining two or more functions into one machine, so it’s very important in your kitchen.
How often should I replace my appliances?
The average life expectancy of most home appliances is 10-15 years. However, how you handle and store your appliances may shorten that period. Additionally, appliances from different brands may perform differently over time.
In general, it’s best to replace any home appliance before it reaches the end of its life expectancy, but this may not always be necessary. A good rule of thumb is to replace all appliances before they are on their last leg to ensure they do not die on you when you need them most. You may also need to upgrade all appliances in your home to make it more efficient. Replace an appliance if it’s constantly breaking down and costing you more in repairs as well.
Is it better to buy appliances as a package?
Purchasing appliances as a package may be more cost-effective and convenient. It saves you the hassle of shopping for each appliance when they are needed at once or close together in use. This can also help you save, as with more products the store can be more flexible with the pricing.
Style-wise, buying appliances as a package helps you maintain consistency of all appliances in your home.
How do I choose an appliance for my home?
There are several things to consider when shopping for a new appliance:
● What is the size of your home? Consider the size of your home and the size of the machine you want to buy. Buying an appliance that won’t fit in your space may lead to more costs as you try to construct a new space.
● How much can you spend without breaking the bank? As the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. Set up a budget and fit in the appliance, not the
other way around. Take time to shop around until you find the perfect appliance within your price range.
● What appliance are you looking to replace or upgrade? Knowing what you want before going shopping will help you focus on the essential features and stick to your budget.
● Will it be used daily or occasionally? This is particularly useful if you are operating on a tight budget. Take your time if the appliance can be substituted by another.
Conclusion
Buying an appliance is an investment that will improve your quality of life and provide you with many years of comfort. Our extensive appliance buying guides make the process easy and stress-free. From selecting the best type of refrigerator or oven to finding out what is worth spending more money on and what is not worth it, there is something here for everyone! Browse our full selection of refrigerators, dishwashers, washers & dryers to find the right appliance for your home.