Here's When to Shop For Appliances to Get the Best Deal, According to Pros

Whether you’re setting up house or replacing a broken washing machine, household appliances are a necessity that often come with a hefty price tag. The purchase itself can be overwhelming due to the expense and commitment, so you deserve to find the best product for the least amount of money and hassle. 

“If you're not in a rush, waiting just a bit for the right time can save you big,” says Lindsay Zollman, senior consumer analyst at Hisense. “Timing it right is like playing a shopping game where the prize is hundreds of dollars back in your pocket!”

Here's when experts say you're likely to get the most bang for your buck.

When You'll Get the Best Price

While there are plenty of holiday and weekend sales to take advantage of, the smartest time to buy your appliance might actually depend on the appliance itself. According to Zollman, it pays to consider what you're buying to determine when to buy. “Some appliances follow their own sales cycle, so it really pays to know when each typically goes on sale,” she says.

Additionally, prices may drop towards the end of the month. “Sales teams often have quotas to meet, and that can work in your favor,” Zollman explains. “If you follow these patterns, you can plan ahead and make your budget go a whole lot further.”

Refrigerators

According to Zollman, May is a great time to buy refrigerators. “Brands roll out new models in summer, so older ones get marked down in the spring,” she explains.

Dishwashers and Ranges

Dishwashers and ranges are best bought in the fall and winter months. “Holiday sales around Thanksgiving and Christmas tend to be strongest,” says appliance expert Dennis Godynuk. “Stores bundle dishwashers with kitchen packages, so you can save even more.”

Washers and Dryers

The time between September and October is the sweet spot for buying washers and dryers. “New models are released and old models are marked at a discounted price,” savings expert Marc Mezzacca says you'll likely find.

You should also look out for deals during standard holiday sales, and the time just after. “Major holiday weekends are key,” adds Godynuk. “But also watch for January white-goods sales when retailers discount floor models after the holiday rush.”

Ovens and Cooktops

For these appliances, Zollman recommends starting to check prices ahead of Thanksgiving. “Stores know people are upgrading for the holidays,” she explains.

Air Conditioners

When it comes to ACs, you'll want to shop in the winter or early spring, when no one else is even thinking about air conditioners. “Prices go way up in summer when demand spikes,” Zollman says.

Small Appliances

For small appliances, you can rely on standard sale slots for the best deals. “Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Prime Day are when you’ll find the biggest markdowns on things like blenders, toasters, and coffee makers,” says Zollman.

Further Your Savings With These Expert Tips

To ensure you get the best deal (and not end up second-guessing your purchase), our experts shared their best tips to help you shop like a pro. Remember these essentials before you start shopping.

Take Advantage of Bundles

“If you need more than one appliance in the near future, consider buying them at the same time, as some retailers and brands often offer bundle discounts,” advises smart shopping expert Trae Bodge.

Swapping out your fridge for a more modern model? Take stock of your home's other appliances and consider their purchase dates. Something may be on its way out, and it could be cost-efficient to bundle the purchases.

Consider Older Models and Exclusive Pricing

Buying something new and shiny is often the most appealing option. But if you time it right, older models can offer just as much for significantly less, according to Zollman.

Additionally, Zollman recommends considering ordering online for delivery when possible. “You’ll often find online exclusive pricing that doesn’t show up in-store,” she says. “Always compare.”

Check for Rebates

Don’t forget to check for rebates. Zollman notes that sometimes you can stack them with store sales and loyalty perks. “If you’re loyal to a specific retailer, sign up for their emails,” she adds. “You’ll often get early access to promotions, exclusive discounts, or loyalty rewards that sweeten the deal.” 

Look for "Open Box" or Floor Models

Mezzacca recommends seeking out “open box” or floor models for maximum value. “These models often save you hundreds of dollars over new-in-box units, but still carry full warranties,” he says.

Godynuk adds that these “lightly blemished models” can be 20 to 40 percent off, and most of the flaws are cosmetic. 

Check the Warranty

Before making a purchase of a used item, confirm that the warranty transfers to you. “A great deal isn’t so great if service is hard to find,” says Godynuk.

Read Reviews

Bodge advises always reading reviews before making your final purchase. “One of my favorite resources is Consumer Reports,” she says. “You can access some information free of charge, but it could be worth a digital subscription for all the information you need for such a big purchase.” 

Ask About Price Matching

Negotiating isn't just for open-air markets. According to Mezzacca, you shouldn't be afraid to ask about a store's price-matching policies. “Many big-box stores will match a competitor’s sale price or their own online price,” adds Godynuk. “Don’t be shy about asking.”