Modern life is deeply dependent on major appliances. Whether they’re keeping your wardrobe clean or ensuring your food is edible, these machines help us out a lot more than we realize.
A day without a dishwasher, washing machine, air conditioner, or refrigerator is, for many, almost unimaginable. So when one breaks down, or you move into a home without one or more of these domestic MVPs, it is hard not to panic.
None of these essential appliances comes cheap, but there are ways to plan ahead so you can buy one at a discount. Grab your calendar, and make note of the following best times to buy major appliances.
Mark your shopping calendar for September, October, and January
Manufacturers typically roll out new appliances during two major times: early fall and at the beginning of a new year. Retailers often slash prices on last year’s inventory to make room for the fresh models. The exception to this rule is refrigerators; Manufacturers introduce new models in the spring.
“These months are ideal times to buy appliances, because they need to clear out inventory and make room for new models,” says Jake Noah, an expert on home decor and interior design at MaxFurnishing.com. “Retailers tend to offer steep discounts on older models to make them more attractive to buyers.”
Wait until the last few days of the month
Stores large and small have sales targets they need to meet every month, so even if an item is not on sale, managers may be willing to negotiate.
“I find that on the last days of the month, retailers are desperate and willing to negotiate just to make a sale,” says Keely Smith, the lead interior designer at JD Elite Interiors. “If you need something specific but can hold out until the end of the month, chances are, you’ll get a better deal.
Check things out on a random Thursday
Thursdays are slow days for most retailers, so if you’re having an appliance emergency and you can’t wait to buy, this is the best day to target.
“Thursdays are less crowded for retailers, and you may have a better chance of talking to a manager and getting a deal,” says Noah. “Some retailers also kick off their weekend sales on Thursdays, so you can take advantage and get the best picks before the crowds arrive.”
Plan ahead and score deals on major holidays
Labor Day, Memorial Day, Presidents Day, and Black Friday are the holidays when stores are most likely to roll out the big discounts.
“Major holidays are the best time to buy big appliances,” says Pavel Khaykin, a real estate investor at Pavel Buys Houses. “I find the best discounts come on Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Presidents Day.”
Go for warm-weather appliances in the winter
No one needs an air conditioner when it’s cold out—and that’s kind of the point. Timing is crucial when it comes to buying new items for your home, and experts suggest buying weather-conditional appliances when they’re not in demand. For example, air conditioners and gas grills can be picked up for a song when you’re least likely to want them.
“Fewer buyers will be in need of warm-weather appliances when leaves and snow cover the ground,” Smith says. “Retailers are more than willing to offer discounts and deals to move inventory during these off-seasons.”
Of course, convenience is important, and sometimes you can’t put off buying something as essential as a refrigerator or a stove. But if you can plan ahead and hold out buying a specific appliance for a few weeks or months, you could score a deal that’ll save you hundreds of dollars on just one item.
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