Buying used appliances is much cheaper than purchasing new initially, with a stove, range, and refrigerator alone potentially costing thousands of dollars. That lower price tag can obviously be an attractive option, but it’s important to consider efficiency, longevity, and quality of what you’re buying. It may be cheap now, but it might end up in the local landfill quicker than you think.
It is possible to find a brand-new appliance manufactured by a company that isn’t as well known as brands like Maytag and Whirlpool, so shopping around is the key. If possible, consider your timing as well – when it comes to scoring bargains on major appliances, timing is everything. Toward the end of the month, stores are more desperate to sell in order to meet their quotas so you may be able to get a great deal. September, October, and January are the months when manufacturers roll out new models, which means retailers are looking to get rid of last year’s inventory.
No Worry Warranty
When buying new appliances, they come with a warranty which is a big advantage. Depending on the manufacturer, you could have anywhere from three to 10 years without having to worry about paying for repairs if it malfunctions. With a used appliance, you might pay only $100, but it could fail after only a few months of use. That usually means shelling out more for repairs than you paid in the first place, or buying another one. If you continue to buy used, it won’t be long until you’ve spent what you would have on a brand new one anyway.
It’s More Energy Efficient
Buying a new appliance means that you’ll be getting a piece of equipment that has the latest technology and is as energy-efficient as possible. Swapping out old appliances for new ones that are more energy efficient will help you save money on your electricity bills as well as help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to Consumer Reports, appliances represent the third-largest energy spend, accounting for nine percent of your utility bill. A new washing machine that has the Energy Star label, for example, uses 25 percent less energy than washers did two decades ago.
It’s a Big Selling Point
If you’re planning to sell your home, perhaps putting it on the market among the Austin houses for sale or anywhere else, having brand-new, sparkling appliances will light up the eyes of potential buyers, as they won’t have to worry about the added cost of updating old ones. It can work like a charm when it comes to getting those offers. Plus, if you buy a used appliance and it needs to be repaired or replaced, you’ll have to do that before selling or reveal the issue to buyers upfront. When you have new appliances that are clean and in excellent working order, it gives prospective buyers peace of mind that other, perhaps less visible components like an HVAC system and water heater are well-maintained.
