Buying new appliances is exciting, but it can be a bit overwhelming if you’re not sure how to begin your search. The team at Hallock’s put together this list of the most common mistakes people make when purchasing their new appliance. From under-measuring your space, to ignoring that ever important dBA rating on your new dishwasher, a lot of buyer remorse comes after the sale. Keep these tips in mind when you start the search for that replacement appliance and make the process regret-free!
Choosing the Wrong Size
One of the most frequent errors shoppers make is not properly measuring their space before they buy (or not measuring at all). While some appliances are standard size (stand-alone ovens, and dishwashers for example), others are not. Washers and dryers, and refrigerators come in all different shapes and sizes and it’s important to measure before you have your heart set on a specific model. Keep in mind, though, it’s not just about fitting the appliance into a specific alcove. Don’t forget, the appliance needs to first get past your doorway.
How do you avoid purchasing appliances that aren't going to fit?
- Measure everything; the opening where the appliance goes, the doorways, stairwells, and hallways.
- Tack on some space for ventilation; some appliances, like refrigerators, need a little bit of breathing room.
- Check out this article on our blog for the best way to find your fridge size!
Not confident in your measuring abilities? Here at Hallock’s, we offer a free measuring service to put your mind at ease. Reach out to your local store or fill out this form to schedule your appointment!
Ignoring Your Hookups
Before falling in love with a specific make and model, make sure your home can support it; this includes electrical outlets, gas lines, and ventilation. Oftentimes, people buy first and don’t realize until it’s too late that their house just isn’t ready.
Some ovens, cooktops, and (gas) dryers require a 240V plug, but many homes only have a standard 120V. If the voltage isn’t correct, not only could it affect the performance of your new appliance, but it could also create a safety hazard. Gas appliances, of course, require a gas hookup, but they also need proper ventilation to ensure there is no carbon monoxide buildup. Prior to purchasing, be sure to review product specifications– voltage, fuel type, and amperage.
Not sure which voltage your outlet is rated? Check out this graphic from Angi and find more helpful information on the cost of switching from 120V to 240V.
Overlooking Efficiency
Though it’s tempting to pick the cheapest appliance, you may be ignoring how energy efficiency models can actually help lower your bills. While it may cost you more up front, the savings over the life of the appliance should not be ignored. If you’re in the market for new appliances, make sure to keep an eye out for that Energy Star tag. It should tell you the estimated annual usage cost. Remember, just because something is cheaper up front, doesn’t mean you’re getting the best deal over time. Plus, purchasing an Energy Star certified model could make you eligible for tax incentives and energy efficiency rebates. You can find more information on these savings here.
Forgetting About Noise
Do you know how loud your appliances are? If not, don’t worry! Most people aren’t aware of the decibel (dB) rating of their appliances, and while this aspect is often overlooked, it can be an important factor to consider when purchasing new appliances. Many appliances nowadays operate between 40 and 60 dB, which is a significant range. For example, 40 dB is equivalent to a quiet library, and 60 dB is the noise level of a typical conversation. If you’re looking for a dishwasher that won’t disrupt your dinnertime discussions, ask one of our Hallock’s experts about exploring quiet appliance options!
Not Looking into Warranties
Most people think that extended warranties are scams, but the reality is, they’re not. Appliances now have many more electrical components that can fail and be much more costly to replace. While it’s a little bit more expensive up front, isn’t it worth five total years of all labor and part costs being covered by Hallock’s? With an extended warranty, you save yourself the headache of repairing or even replacing your damaged appliances for 5 years. The combination of smart purchase timing and extended coverage maximizes your long-term value. Make sure you check in with your Hallock’s expert to go over extended warranty options!
Not Consulting Your Resources
Today, a lot of people take advantage of buying (almost) everything online. While it is possible to purchase your appliances the same way, why would you want to? Many buyers often skip the research on brand reliability, warranties, and other dealer services and end up regretting it. Here at Hallock’s, you don’t have to go it alone. We have five locations with expert sales staff in each that can give you more peace of mind by answering any questions you have. Want to know what other customers are saying about the same model or gain more information on the serviceability of an appliance? Our sales team can give you the answers you’re looking for to help you feel more secure in your purchase!
Rushing the Installation
It’s always exciting to get a new appliance, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll want it installed as soon as possible. While it’s tempting to have someone you know pop it in the back of their truck and install it in your home, it can also be detrimental to the appliance if not done correctly. Not only do you risk breaking your brand-new appliance, you can also void any sort of warranty that it may have. Hallock’s has a professional in-house delivery and installation crew that have countless hours of training to install your new appliance the correct way. Not to mention, they also get rid of that broken old unit so it’s not sitting in your garage collecting dust as you try and figure out where to take it.
Prioritizing Style Over Function
Listen…appliances now can be overly complicated, and while that high end washing machine comes in a fun color, and has enough wash settings you’ll probably never use, does it make sense for your family and your lifestyle?
- Make a feature-priority list (do you really need your dishwasher to be connected to your Wi-Fi? Does your refrigerator need a tablet screen on the front?)
- If you entertain a lot, maybe a two-door fridge makes sense, or a double oven makes sense. If you don’t, maybe you don’t need to spend as much to get those extra features.
- Don’t forget about reliability - a stylish appliance that breaks often isn’t worth it at all.
Buying a new appliance doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and it doesn’t have to end in regret. By taking the time to measure your space, double-checking your hookups, and understanding your warranty options, you’re already on your way to making a smart and confident purchase. And remember, you don’t need to make these decisions alone. Our team at Hallock’s is here to guide you through every step of the process. From the beginning of your appliance journey, to narrowing down the models, to professional delivery and install, to long-term support from our excellent service team, we have your back!