With appealing bargains and price cuts all around, one can easily get overwhelmed. However, there are a few things to consider before making your big-ticket item purchase in order to save you money and frustration in the long run. These include:
- Making a list of your must-haves – think about colour (cosmetic requirements) and priority features that are important to you and that must suit your individual needs.
- Identifying the right size for your next appliance – make sure you know how much space you have available and also look at how much space you need to leave open for airflow, electrical cables or other factors.
- Setting a budget – think about what you ideally would like to spend and what’s the most you can comfortably afford.
Be smart when selecting your new appliance
Electrolux, the global manufacturer of AEG home appliances warn consumers to be savvy when shopping for home appliances during this period. Since it’s an expensive purchase that is expected to last several years, some things that you want to keep in mind when picking out your new appliance include:
- Avoid impulse buys – It is easy to fall into the trap of buying the first thing that looks good. To avoid disappointment later, rather make an informed decision by doing research, reading reviews and comparing different models.
- Think about space – Consider the swing of the doors when measuring appliances – that includes the door of the appliance and doors located nearby the appliance. For example, which way does the washer door open, and could it knock into the laundry room door? Some appliances come with options for door styles and even the ability to swap which way the door swings open. Pay attention to these details to avoid annoyances later.
- Multi-purpose option – Appliances that have more than one use, for example washer-dryers, which can both wash and dry; convection microwaves that can warm, bake, grill and steam food; or ovens that can air-fry, steam and grill, may be helpful in homes where space is limited.
- Consider noise levels – If sound levels are important to you, don’t forget to listen to an appliance before purchasing it.
- Remember the extras – factors such as the delivery and installation of the appliance must also be taken into account. Some appliances also require additional equipment in order to work properly such as different fittings, the right kind of exhaust fans and vents for a particular cooktop or dryer.
- Read the fine print – know your warranties and return policies. Beware of what is covered and what is not under the manufacturer and retailer warranty.
SA’s demand for energy-saving appliances grows
Electrolux notes that consumers in South Africa are starting to appreciate the benefits of seeking out high quality energy-saving appliances such as fridges, hobs, freezers and geysers. Ughard de Clercq, Lean Engineer at Electrolux South Africa advises consumers to shop around to investigate the specifications of energy-saving appliances before making a decision.
“Consumers should familiarise themselves with the energy ratings system displayed on home appliances and preferably buy appliances that consume the least amount of electricity. For example, a consumer may purchase an appliance that is cheaply priced, however, it may be an energy guzzler in terms of its energy rating,” says de Clercq.
He adds, “Always check the energy rating sticker in-store or the energy rating online. This tells you how energy efficient the appliance is from D, which is less efficient to most efficient A+++. You can compare the appliances, for example, washing machines by looking at the number provided for the energy consumption in terms of kwh/cycle.
He concludes, “I love the AEG induction hob for example, it is far more energy-efficient than gas or electric cooktops. It cooks food faster and as soon as the induction is switched off, it cools down which reduces the electricity consumption.”