Considering energy use, capacities and reviews can help you compare appliances for your home.
Part of the fun of building a new home is shopping for the appliances you will need. This task can also be a bit overwhelming, though, because each appliance category contains hundreds of options. Before hitting the showroom floor, do some preliminary reading about appliances to determine which features are most important to you. For example, do you need a washer with steam technology or a range with convection options? Knowing how much you can spend on appliances can also save time because you won't bother to look at models that are out of your price range.
Instructions
Product Details
1. Examine energy use. If you check out appliances at a local store, look for the bright yellow "Energy Star" label. It will tell you how much energy the appliance is expected to use in a one-year period. You can also find this information on retailers' online listings of appliances and on the government's Energy Star website.
2. Note capacities. Cubic feet are often used to express how much an appliance can hold, whether it be laundry or food. Considering these figures can help you determine how much space you'll get for your money.
3. Consider hues. If it's important to you to have a colorful washer or dryer, start your laundry appliance search by determining which brands offer these selections. You'll find that making color a priority narrows your options significantly.
4. Look for warranty details. While many home appliances have a one-year warranty, some components may be covered for a longer period. When you're considering two models with similar prices and features, the warranty details can help you decide which is the best bet.
Research
5. Review research. J.D. Power and Associates surveys owners of appliances to find out how well they like their purchases. The company's studies show which brands rank highest in customer satisfaction among washers, dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators and ovens.
6. Read professional reviews. "Consumer Reports" magazine and its companion website offer an independent analysis of specific models of appliances. If you don't want to subscribe to the magazine long-term, you can purchase a one-month subscription to the website so you can access appliance reviews.
7. Consider customer comments. Major retailers that sell appliances often post consumer feedback on their websites. Look over these comments to learn the pros and cons of various models.
8. Search for special offers. Manufacturers and retailers sometimes offer special discounts and rebates on certain brands or models that can cut your appliance costs. Ask your salesperson about available offers, and search for them on line before finalizing your model selections.
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