Upgrading your appliances is a big purchase. With this, it is important that you pay attention and not settle for less. Thankfully, there are many in-store appliances you can consider allowing you varied choices but if you are looking for a convenient and cheaper alternative, it is high time that you consider home appliances online.
If this is your first time buying appliances online, here are some insider tips from seasoned shoppers to help you get through the initial experience:
Ask for recommendations
If you have friends or relatives who recently bought appliances online, you should talk to them and ask for recommendations and referrals. By talking to them, you get a firsthand experience of their encounter. This can help you make an informed buying decision.
Always read reviews
If you want to know more about a particular appliance, you should consider reading reviews. Consumers are now empowered through reviews. When scouring the reviews, you have to be wary because some are one-sided.
As much as possible, look for an impartial review so you can decide accordingly. Subjective reviews are based on personal experiences making it hard to choose and be guided. However, in general, when you look for Top 10 Home Appliances To Buy Online, you should ponder beyond the price. Keep in mind that a good price does not always reflect a good deal.
Research Energy Efficiency
The gift of modern appliances to humanity is energy efficiency. With this, there is no surprise that most retailers and manufacturers put Energy Star qualifications in their online stores. In particular, you will see refrigerators and dishwashers having the Energy Star label.
These labels will tell you the average kWh usage as well as the cost to run the machine every year. Knowing these numbers can help you decide the right appliance for your household needs. Experts recommend that you stay below $40 for refrigerators and $25 for dishwashers in energy use every year.
Remember though that microwaves do not have Energy Star ratings. In the case of other appliances like washing machines, purifiers, freezers, water heaters, and dehumidifiers, they have different Energy Star qualifications. When you are confused, you should not hesitate to ask online customer support.
Look for “free delivery”
Most online retailers these days offer “free delivery” with purchases over a specific dollar amount. This service is helpful because it can save you time, gas and burden of loading/unloading the appliance. As much as possible, you should not pay for delivery.
Consider Setup Help
Many retailers offer Setup Help for free or at a minimal cost. If you can install the appliance on your own, this is not an issue. However, if you do not know how to install, you should not force or try because it might damage the unit voiding the warranty. It is always wise to get professional help and if it is for free, you should grab it immediately.
Decline add-ons
Some retailers will automatically add items in your shopping cart. It is fine if you need the add-ons but if not, you should automatically decline. For instance, if you are replacing an old stove, retailers will immediately add a gas line or similar items. If your gas line is still in good condition, your new appliance can still function.