12 Tips To Know for Buying Major Kitchen Appliances

A kitchen isn't a kitchen without its major appliances: the stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave that bring function to your food-prep space. And when you have appliances you love, it's far more joyful to spend time cooking (and even cleaning up).

Most appliances will get the job done well, but it's important to pay attention to the details. Follow these 12 essential steps to help ensure you make a purchase you'll be pleased with.

It's easy to fall in love with a flashy feature or sleek appearance. But bells and whistles alone don't guarantee it's the best fit. Instead of impulse buying, evaluate your needs and make a list of priority features.

For example, do you prefer single or double refrigerator doors? Will you use an ice maker on your fridge? Does a third dishwasher rack add value, or will it go unused? Instead of replacing all your appliances, consider updating just one or two that truly need it, allowing you to save money for other needs.

Before you start shopping, set a budget for how much you'd like to spend on appliances. A budget can help you stick to your guns when you're browsing and avoid getting seduced by higher-end models.

When buying multiple appliances, budgeting can be tricky. Set a per-item and total budget. If estimated costs are too high, prioritize the most important appliances and look to save on others.

With your budget and needs list ready, start comparison shopping. Online searches can help you quickly compare reliability, specs and efficiency. Look for reputable sources like Consumer Reports that take the time to do thorough testing and unbiased reviews. Remember, the appliance cost is just one factor—delivery, installation and removal also matter.

For the best value, choose brands known for longevity. Local repair experts can offer insight into which brands require the most service calls.

Energy-efficient appliances are a fantastic choice both for your utility bills and the environment. One expert tip is to look for models that are Energy Star certified—or better yet, have earned a "most efficient" rating from Energy Star. Modern rather than used models are more likely to be beneficial, and appliances with smartphone apps can help you use them more efficiently.¹

Learn from others' mistakes or successes! Browsing online reviews and asking friends and family for advice are two smart ways to gather intel on kitchen appliances. Just be sure the reviewer has had the appliance long enough to form a truly useful opinion.

To judge the trustworthiness of online reviews, the Federal Trade Commission suggests:²

• Use various sources, especially well-known sites with impartial expert reviews.
• Be cautious of large batches of reviews posted at once—that can be a sign they're spammy.
• Look at other reviews by the same individual or website—if they only have one review, it might be a fake account.
• Remember, negative reviews can be fake too, and some fake positive reviews might avoid a perfect rating to seem real
• Be careful when reading reviews—it can be hard to distinguish the made-up ones from the real ones.

A common mistake when buying large appliances is misjudging space. To avoid issues— like a dishwasher sticking out past the cabinet fronts—measure width, height and depth at least twice. Include a buffer for cables or cords and check clearance requirements with the manufacturer or retailer.

Also, measure doorways and tight spots the appliance must pass through. A tight hallway corner could be the end of your dream oversized fridge.

Before you buy, read the fine print and ensure you understand how your new appliance works. Ask questions if you're unsure, and request names and numbers of individuals or companies who can service it if necessary. You don't want to end up with an appliance you don't know how to use.

Also, understand the warranties and after-sales service. New appliances can have issues, so ensure there are solutions if problems arise. Look for a long warranty covering key parts with a simple claim process. Be clear on what might void the warranty, like using the wrong detergent or attempting DIY repairs. Note: Registering the product isn't required for the warranty but can help with recalls.³

If you can, be patient. Retailers often run special promotions at certain times of the year and during holidays. Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Presidents Day weekend can be the best time to purchase large appliances.⁴ Major holidays often bring big sales—but make sure you know the usual price of your target appliance to gauge the sale's value.

Another option to consider is so-called "scratch and dent" appliances, which might have some cosmetic damage, such as from spending time as a floor model. You might find a good deal on an appliance with only minor dents.⁵

Online videos are great for exploring appliance features and technology. Reviewers often demonstrate various functions, helping you decide if a feature is a gimmick or a must-have. Look for features like:

Most models offer space-expanding features like adjustable shelves. Also, pay attention to energy efficiency and convenient features, like filtration in the door's water system.

Note how many place settings it holds, as well as a delay-start option and a forced-air mode that can assist in dish drying and reduce the water that rests in glasses or bowls. Some newer models also have an auto-open feature that lets steam out once the cycle is complete.

Convenient features include convection capabilities, an easy-to-clean cooktop and warming drawers, which all contribute to a smoother cooking experience. A popular option nowadays is induction stoves, which are valued for their safety, speed, responsiveness, efficiency and ability to maintain very low temperatures.⁶

Pay attention to the power and wattage, the turntable size and function, sensors for overcooking and undercooking, a convection mode, and if necessary, childproof doors. Also, look for smart features, like the ability to heat food and run the kitchen timer at the same time. It can be a game-changer!

Kitchen appliances are big purchases, so it's worth thinking about your needs not just now, but as the years go by. As we said above, choosing brands that are known for lasting quality can be a smart step. Even if they're a bit more expensive up front, they may save you money over the long term.

Also, consider the space around appliances, especially if you plan to do a kitchen renovation in the future. An appliance that fits your current setup might not suit a new layout. Decide whether to wait or choose an appliance that can adapt to changes in both style and function.

And if selling your home is on the agenda, that might affect your decision too. New appliances don't necessarily add value to your home, unless perhaps they're energy-efficient and have smart features.⁷ Stainless steel appliances tend to appeal to buyers, but you don't have to go top-of-the-line.⁸ If resale value is important to you, it might be worth consulting with a real estate agent before making a purchase.

The style of your appliances won't make dinner taste any better, but it might make you more eager to spend time in the kitchen. Think about the aesthetics of your kitchen and what style of appliances will work best to create a cohesive look.

While stainless steel remains popular, there are many creative and minimalist options available. Current trends include metallic finishes (like bronzed gold), vibrant colors (like green) and sleek designs with hidden appliances behind cabinet doors. Induction stoves are also gaining popularity for their efficiency and reduced indoor air pollution.⁹

Ultimately, what you choose comes down to your personal taste and style, as well as the degree to which you want to keep things neutral for the sake of resale value. Not everyone wants a gold fridge, but if it will bring you joy, go for it!

No matter how much research you do, sometimes an appliance just doesn't work out. That's why it's important to review the return policies before you buy. Understand how much time you have to return the item, how it has to be returned and if there are any related costs, such as restocking or shipping fees.

Build these things into your decision-making when budgeting for your purchases. That super-sweet deal on a dishwasher might not seem so good if you end up not liking it and having to pay hundreds of dollars to switch it up.

Buying new kitchen appliances can be a lot of work, but it will be worth it once you start using the new upgrades. A dishwasher that actually washes the dishes, an energy-efficient refrigerator and a stove that boils water in the blink of an eye—they can all be yours with some smart planning and budgeting.

And if you happen to find the appliance of your dreams that's just a little outside of your budget, you don't necessarily have to settle for less. The Synchrony HOME™ Credit Card can help you get what you love and pay over time with promotional financing available at Synchrony HOME retail partners*. This way, you can enjoy your perfect kitchen without the financial stress upfront.

*Subject to credit approval. Minimum monthly payments required. See store for details.