How to buy a used appliance

Whether you are looking purchase new or used, appliance stores recommend, sell, service and repair more kitchen and home appliances on a regular basis than anyone. We know what makes a good appliance and what doesn’t.

Tips for finding the right used appliance
There is a steady demand and supply for used appliances, if you don’t find what you are looking for right away and have a little time, you will quickly develop an “eye” for a quality appliance at the right price. For instance, when looking for a used washer, ask about steel vs. stainless steel tubs, the quality and condition of the motor and bearings. A good appliance salesperson should be knowledgeable and happy to inform you about the choices available, what to look for, and what to avoid. Its just good business. We have been recommending appliances to families in Los Angeles since 1930, and most good appliance stores have been around long enough to understand that buying a home appliance you need to rely on for regular use, is usually a major decision. At a minimum, a 30 to 60 day guarantee should be included in the purchase price if you are buying from a reputable appliance store. If there is a problem that was missed, it should easily appear within that time span and be taken care of. Most models we sell include a 60 day guarantee.

Also ask your salesperson about Scratch and Dent appliances, these are unused appliances with full factory warranty that can’t be sold as new due to a cosmetic defect or blemish. Scratch and Dent appliances are the not so well known secret of the appliance business, and a really great deal if you can find a store like Waadt Appliance that is an authorized scratch and dent dealer for multiple major appliance brands.

The best advice we can give is to research the appliance you are considering, and negotiate terms that leave you feeling confident about the transaction. Educating yourself about your purchase is a critical first step. Besides making friends with your local appliance store salesperson, another useful resource for used appliance information is the Consumer Products Safety Council website. Check and see if the used appliance you are considering is subject to recall or defective.

Are you concerned that buying a used appliance instead of new more energy efficient appliance is a bad choice for our environment? Pat yourself on the back, you are helping our environment and local economy after all. When you purchase a used major home appliance, the fact is you will be purchasing a less efficient appliance than a brand new Energy Star Qualified appliance. However, regardless of the energy rating of the used appliance you choose, you will have saved all of the energy and material used to fabricate and ship a new appliance to your home. And by purchasing used appliances locally, you are potentially keeping nearly all of the cash flow in the local community.

Download “How to Buy Energy Efficient Appliances” a seven page printable guide from wpa.gov.

We take pride in helping our customers find the right appliance for their family or business, new or used. If you are in the neighborhood (we are freeway close!) stop by our Kitchen and Home Appliance Showroom 16919 Sherman Way at Balboa Blvd in Van Nuys CA 91406, or call (818) 987-2560. We are open 7 days!

*The cat peeking in the window of the front load washing machine is here by permission of its owner.