How to Compare Kitchen Appliances
Buying new kitchen appliances can be a big investment--and the overwhelming amount of choices available can be daunting. There are hundreds of different types of any given appliance, from different brands, with various styles and capabilities, so you'll need to do your research before you make a decision. Price is not the only important factor. You first must decide what features you need, and read what other consumers have said about appliances in this category. Only then can you begin to truly compare price. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Determine the type of appliance you are looking for. Aside from the usual classifications--dishwasher, refrigerator, etc.--get more specific before you begin your comparison. After all, looking at a mini fridge next to a full-size refrigerator and freezer is like comparing apples to oranges. For example, do you want a french-door (side-by-side), top-freezer, or bottom-freezer refrigerator model? Does it need to be Energy Star-rated?
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Read reviews of the types of appliances you are interested in on sites such as ConsumerReports.org and CNET.com. Here you will get a good idea of which appliances in your chosen category are the best. Make a list of several of these options.
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Visit an online shopping comparison site such as PriceGrabber and NexTag. Enter the names of the appliances on your narrowed-down list, complete with brand name, make and model, if applicable. These sites have data from all websites that feature these products, including big name department stores and retails chains and smaller Internet retailers. Take note of the price and retailer name of the best deals you find.
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Visit several local department stores, if possible during or around major holidays when sale prices are usually at their lowest. Come armed with the prices you found in your online search. Many major retailers, such as Best Buy, offer price-match guarantees. You may also be able to purchase the floor model of the appliance at a deep discount if it is the last one left.
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