When is the Best Time to Buy Appliances?
Appliances are expensive, whether you're moving, upgrading, or fixing a broken freezer. But by knowing the best time to buy appliances, you can save hundreds of dollars on refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, dryers, and more.
Here are the best times to buy appliances—and where to look for deals.
When is the best time to buy appliances?
Fourth of July and Black Friday sales: The best time to buy appliances is often during Fourth of July and Black Friday weekend sales, says Justin Sherman, a merchandising and media manager at New England Appliance and More, Inc. in Braintree, Massachusetts. "Fourth of July and Black Friday are when you are likely to get the best deals of the year," says Sherman. And, he adds, discounts aren't limited to a certain kind of appliance then; deals run "across the board."
President's Day and Memorial Day sales: Appliances also continue to be on sale during the President's Day and Memorial Day holiday weekends. Retailers tend to offer "smaller deals" during these holiday weekends, says Sherman.
When new models are released: "New models are typically released in September and October for most appliances, such as washers, dryers, and dishwashers," says Jason Hallam, vice president of merchandising for the appliance division at Lowe's.
That can be a smart time to look for deals. "When manufacturers roll out new models, stores give discounts on the models that are being replaced," Sherman explains. "They need to move inventory off the floor to make room."
During the off-season: "The off-season can be a great time to buy new appliances because prices will likely decrease when the demand is lower," says Hallam. "Replacing your air conditioner during winter could be ideal since fewer people are considering that appliance during the colder months."
Similarly, Sherman suggests buying smaller appliances like dehumidifiers in the dry season, when they're likely to be on sale. That's instead of buying during the rainy season when basements tend to flood—and demand is high.
In cold weather: "A lot more building goes on during warm weather, when people are putting additions on their houses and having work done," says Sherman.
That demand tends to push prices for appliances higher in the warmer months. You can save by waiting for cooler weather or other times when there's less new home construction and renovations.
End of season: The end of the season can also be a good time to buy appliances. "It's not so much that the manufacturers are offering better prices—it's more that the retailer has a bunch they didn't sell," Sherman says.
This can apply to smaller appliances, like air conditioners, too. "If it's the end of the summer and we still have a lot of air conditioners, we'd like to not have them sitting around until next summer," Sherman says. "We'll probably offer some sort of discount or percentage off."
End of year: Kicking off with Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the holiday season is another good time to look for sales. "There's a big push at the end of the year to sell," as companies strive to hit their sales goals, says Sherman.
When is the best time to buy major appliances?
Certain holiday sales, the end of a season, and the end of a year, are some of the best times to buy major appliances. But different appliances have different sale timelines. New refrigerator models are typically released in late spring. New models of dishwashers, washers, and dryers are usually released in early fall.
When is the best time to buy a refrigerator?: Hallam says the best time to buy a refrigerator could be in May, when new models are released and older models go on sale. Look for Memorial Day sales to potentially get the greatest deal on a refrigerator.
When is the best time to buy a dishwasher?: The best time to buy a dishwasher is usually in September and October. This is when stores are trying to make space for new models, as Hallam explains. Try for extra-deep discounts during Labor Day sales. Black Friday, even though it's in November, might offer great deals too if any older models are left.
When is the best time to buy a washing machine?: The best time to buy a washing machine is in September and October. During these months, older models are on sale to make room for new ones in stores. And the deals could bleed into November.
"Retail-specific holiday deals, like those during Black Friday, allow shoppers to save big on new appliances since many new models roll out in the fall," says Hallam.
When is the best time to buy a dryer?: You guessed it: Just like dishwashers and washing machines, the best time to buy a dryer could be during September and October, says Hallam. Stores typically mark down older-model dryers as new ones arrive.
When is the best time to buy an air conditioner?: The ideal time to purchase an air conditioner is during the winter months. This is because fewer people are considering replacing their units during this time. The colder temperatures in many regions of the country make it less of a priority for homeowners. During the colder months, items like air conditioners aren't in demand, so prices tend to be lower.
Other ways to save on appliances
It's important to know the best time to buy appliances to save money. You can save even more money by taking advantage of these money-saving opportunities.
Consider scratched and dented appliances: Sometimes products become slightly damaged while on the assembly line or during shipping or warehouse storage. Sherman explains that these appliances are often sold at a discount due to cosmetic imperfections, like dents or scratches. Keep in mind these are usually brand-new products—not preowned or refurbished (although some stores might offer those as well).
Choose an older model: If you don't need the latest and greatest, check out last season's lineup. Appliances made a year ago probably have the same important features as newer ones. So think about your needs and priorities and whether the newest release is truly worth the extra cash.
Look for energy-saving options: Depending on your household income, you could be eligible for government rebates on energy-efficient appliances. The Inflation Reduction Act offers up to $840 in rebates for low-and moderate-income households that buy energy-efficient appliances, including a heat pump clothes dryer or an electric stove, cooktop, or range.
Individual states are responsible for running these rebate programs. To see if rebates are available where you live, visit the website of the US Department of Energy.
ENERGY STAR appliances save money by using less energy, even though they may cost more initially. This means you will spend less on electricity bills over time.
The upfront investment in these appliances pays off in the long run. An ENERGY STAR clothes washer, for example, uses about 20% less energy and about 30% less water than a regular washer. Over its lifetime, buyers could save about $550 in energy costs, according to ENERGY STAR.
Check out manufacturer rebates: Manufacturers often offer rebates that "throw you a few hundred dollars, and in some cases, up to $1,500," says Sherman. He adds that smaller, independent, or local stores might have rebates that the national big-box stores don't offer.
"Sometimes, there are incentives to encourage people to buy from the little guy," says Sherman.
Ask about price matching: Some bigger stores will offer to match a competitor's price if a customer finds the same item for less at another store. So be sure to shop around and save any pricing proof.
Join rewards programs: Loyalty programs can save you money. By signing up, members can earn points that can be redeemed for discounts on eligible purchases. Members might also receive exclusive offers and free shipping deals, says Hallam.
Bundle your buying: If you're in the market for more than one appliance, buy them at the same time. By bundling, you can save more money than if you buy them separately.
Bottom Line
Navigating the world of appliance shopping doesn't have to be overwhelming or costly. By knowing the optimal times to purchase, such as during holiday sales, the off-season, and when new models are released, you can save hundreds of dollars on essential home appliances. Stay informed and proactive to make the most of your appliance investments.
Sources:
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/smart-money/best-time-to-buy-appliances