Appliance Shopping Checklist

A step-by-step printable guide to help you shop smart for new appliances.

1. Define Your Needs

• What problem are you solving? (e.g., fridge too small, washer too noisy)

• Must-have features vs. nice-to-have extras

2. Budget Planning

• Set a clear spending limit

• Factor in delivery, installation, and disposal fees

3. Measure Your Space

• Height, width, and depth of installation area

• Clearance for doors, ventilation, and hookups

• Pathways for delivery (doorways, stairs)

4. Research & Compare

• Read customer reviews and professional ratings

• Compare reliability of brands and models

• Check availability of replacement parts

5. Energy Efficiency

• Look for Energy Star or equivalent ratings

• Compare annual operating costs

6. Features & Technology

• Focus on practical features you’ll actually use

• Avoid paying extra for gimmicks

7. Warranty & Service

• Review warranty length and coverage

• Check if local service centers exist

8. Discounts & Timing

• Look for holiday or seasonal sales

• Consider buying last year’s model for savings

9. Style & Design

• Match finishes and colors with existing appliances

• Consistency improves resale value

10. Return & Exchange Policies

• Confirm return/exchange window

• Understand restocking fees

Pro Tip

Keep all manuals and receipts in a binder or scan them into your system for easy troubleshooting later.