Buy with Confidence: Tips for Purchasing Refurbished Appliances

Purchasing refurbished appliances can offer significant savings over their new counterparts, but it requires a certain amount of caution to ensure you're getting a quality product. This guide will walk you through the process of locating a trustworthy seller, scrutinizing the seller and the product, and ensuring you make a responsible purchase. Let's get started.

Part 1: Locating a Seller

When searching for refurbished appliances, the seller and their reputation play a crucial role in ensuring that you get a quality product. Here are some avenues to explore:

1. Explore Craigslist and Other Websites

Scan Craigslist ads: Look for multiple products for sale from a single seller. A professional refurbisher is more likely to have multiple items up for grabs. Check for:

By doing so, you can verify that the seller is a legitimate business.

2. Seek Out Independent Retailers

Search online for independent retailers who specialize in refurbished appliances. These sellers often handle higher-quality refurbished items and are more upfront about their products.

3. Inquire at Local Box Stores

Visit local box stores such as Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe's, where they often offer a selection of scratch-and-dent or refurbished appliances. These items have typically been returned to the manufacturer, refurbished, and restocked by the retailer. Additionally, you can explore the websites of these stores to see if they have any refurbished stock available for purchase.

4. Visit Manufacturer Outlets

Visit manufacturer outlets, such as Whirlpool or General Electric, for certified refurbished products. These outlets offer warranties and guarantees, which can provide peace of mind. Furthermore, you can shop at various general retailer outlet stores, like the Sears outlet, for a wider range of refurbished appliances.

Part 2: Scrutinizing the Seller and the Product

Before making a purchase, it's essential to verify the seller's reputation and the quality of the refurbished appliance. Follow these steps to ensure you're making an informed decision:

1. Research the Seller's Reputation

Perform an online search to find any reviews or comments left by customers who have bought from the seller. Also, check platforms like Yelp to gauge the seller's reliability and ethics. Ask around your social circle or within your professional network to get firsthand accounts of their purchasing experiences.

2. Verify Technician Experience

When inspecting refurbished appliances, ask who refurbished the product. Inquire about the technician's experience with the specific brand and model. Ensure they hold relevant certifications or are authorized repair persons for the appliance manufacturer. Look for the certification or authorized repair label or logo.

3. Request a Demonstration

Whether you're in a big box store or an independent retailer, request a demonstration of the appliance. Verify that it powers on and functions properly. This step is crucial, especially for appliances like dishwashers, where you may not be able to test all features.

4. Understand the Risk

Be aware that refurbished appliances, despite their attractive prices, come with certain risks. The item has been used, repaired, and transported multiple times, which could affect its lifespan. Assess whether you can accept this risk or prefer a new appliance.

Part 3: Purchasing the Appliance

Once you've found a suitable seller and product, make sure you make an informed purchase:

1. Negotiate a Significant Discount

Expect significant savings when purchasing a refurbished appliance. Savings can range from 20% to 50% or more depending on the retailer and the appliance's age. Don't hesitate to negotiate with the salesperson. Use this as an opportunity to haggle and find the best deal.

2. Consider a Warranty

Inquire about warranty coverage. Most refurbished appliances can be covered by either the manufacturer or the retailer. Third-party warranties are also available, often costing a percentage of the product price. Opt for the longest warranty period possible, given a reasonable cost.

3. Review the Return Policy

Before committing to the purchase, ask about the retailer's return policy. Some retailers may extend their usual return policy of 30 days to refurbished appliances, while others may not. Clarifying this beforehand can save you from regret in case the appliance fails shortly after purchase.