Major appliances are a large part of home convenience.  It’s so much easier to throw dishes in a washer rather than clean them by hand; a washing machine is quicker than going to a Laundromat; and, blenders conveniently chop, puree, and combine food for preparation.  However, if you haven’t noticed, the price of major appliances continues to climb.  Yet, with a bit of creativity and knowhow, you can counter the spike in price with consumer insights.

Purchase Damaged Equipment and Floor Models

When it comes to buying at retail prices, most consumers want perfect products.  A dent or chip in an appliance is not appreciated and seldom sold.  However, retailers want to get rid of floor models and damaged products, too.  Inquire about buying items with aesthetic issues or those that serve as floor models for some time.  It’s a great way to get working equipment at a discount.  As far as damages, if the appliance works, and you can get over minor cosmetic imperfections, you have the advantage.

View Older Models

Manufacturers are in the business of making money, doing things that will excite customers and inspire them to take out their wallets.  For example, the release of newer models and added technology gives reason to produce similar products.  However, often, there is a small difference between models, except for age and associated price.  When new models are issued, consider buying dated devices at lower prices.  If you can handle hosting a “dated” product, you will enjoy similar functioning at a fraction of the price.

Buy the Conqueror Wringer. Washing day. [front] by PROBoston Public Library, on Flickr.  This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic License.

Use a Coupon

In most cases, if you’re paying full price for a major appliance, you’re doing it wrong.  It’s likely there is a coupon for that item.  You just need to know where to find them.  Check online for Snapdeal coupons and other opportunities to save on major appliances.  Also, consider buying sought items out of season, such as purchasing an outdoor grill in the winter.

Do Research

Before the Internet, it was difficult for shoppers to compare prices.  For example, a retailer across the state may be selling the same washing machine for a lower price, but if you don’t know about it, you’ll never convince the vendor in your town to lower their price.  Now, comparison shopping is as easy as using an online platform or doing a bit of research, checking prices on multiple sites.  When you take the time to do research, you gain the benefit of getting vendors to lower prices to meet those of others.

Do Without the Bells and Whistles

Some major appliances, like cars, come unequipped with add-ons, which consumers likely don’t need but eventually want because they sound interesting enough to consider paying more for.  However, if you’re purchasing a quality model from a reputable manufacturer, you can do without the bells and whistles.  You’ll save money, staying unaffected by marketing buzzwords and advertising spiel.

There are plenty of household must-haves, yet it’s not mandatory to pay full price for any of them.  With a bit of research, creativity, and patience, you can get great equipment at a fraction of the cost.

Judy Morwell is a working mom and a cost-saving crusader.  She enjoys sharing her ideas and insights online and has written for a number of relevant websites.