As a homeowner, there are many reasons why you may be looking to buy new kitchen appliances, update small kitchen appliances, or purchase a modern washer and dryer set. Perhaps you’re moving into a new home, preparing to sell your current home, replacing a major appliance that’s broken, or renovating certain rooms to make them more accommodating.

But whatever the reason, The Brick has lots of helpful advice for improving the functionality of your home. Here are our top 10 must-dos before you buy new major home appliances.

1. Consider Appliance Measurements

Having accurate measurements is essential in the very earliest stage of shopping for a new major appliance. This involves confirming the length, width, and depth of your space, including any space needed for connection pipes at the rear and passageways to navigate around appliances. For example, you’ll need to ensure that a new laundry machine can fit through your home’s doors and that large kitchen appliances will fit into the spaces their predecessors left behind.

2. Compare the Aesthetics of Models

While functionality is very important, you’ll also want to choose home appliances that are aesthetically pleasing and that you will enjoy looking at every day. Both small kitchen appliances and large ones, for example, take center stage within your home, so choose options that coordinate with your overall design and color scheme.

3. Do a Cost Comparison

Cost is always a key factor when shopping for home appliances, and you might be surprised how much prices vary from one model to the next. You can compare prices by visiting one of the more than 220 stores that we operate across Canada or easily browse products online to see side-by-side prices of various models.

4. Learn About Decibel Levels

Something else to consider when you’re in the market for new home appliances is decibel levels. This is something that many homeowners neglect to pay attention to, but it can mean the difference between loving a new appliance or hating it. Look for decibel ratings on potential appliances before you buy and choose low-decibel-level products for appliances that will be placed near bedrooms and other rooms where you may take naps, host guests, or have conversations.

5. Think About Energy Efficiency

“Going green” is about much more than just recycling. Not only are energy efficient appliances better for the environment, but they can also save you a significant amount of money on your water and electric bills. Take note of Energy Star ratings and how many kilowatt hours washer and dryer sets and other home appliances use before making a purchase.

6. Understand the Warranty

Major home appliances often come with some type of warranty, but make sure to read the fine print so that you fully understand the terms of the warranty and what it covers. For our appliances, our Full Circle Appliance and Electronics Protection includes parts and labor costs, in-home services, a no lemon guarantee, pro-rated replacement guarantee, and much more.

7. Learn About the Repair Process

When you buy a new home appliance, the last thing you want to think about is something going wrong with it. But even the very best machines can develop issues over time. You can ask appliance dealers for advice on reliable repair companies in the area should you need that information in the future. Or you can choose our protection plan, which pays for 100% of all repair costs, and the service will always be performed by factory-trained service technicians.

8. Know If Additional Parts or Adjustments are Needed

To avoid hidden costs and surprise expenses, you need to understand if any other purchases are required to make your new home appliance functional. This may require a few questions about whether additional parts are needed or whether the appliance will require any adjustments before it’s able to work in your home.

9. Read Online Reviews

It’s also a smart idea to read some online reviews before purchasing a washer and dryer, refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, or small kitchen appliance. Consumer Reports is a trusted source for product reviews that many appliance customers rely upon to make a final decision.

10. See If There Are Seasonal Sales

Home appliances tend to go on sale at certain times of year, around certain holidays, and at the end of a season. For the best deals, keep an eye out for seasonal sales so you don’t pay more for home appliances than you need to. Check out the “Save” tab on our website at any time to learn about sales we are offering on appliances, electronics, furniture, mattresses, and home décor.