A Complete Checklist Before Buying Any Home Appliance
Buying a home appliance is a significant decision that you’ll live with for 10 to 15 years or more. Going through a simple checklist before you purchase ensures you won’t overlook anything important—and helps you avoid the most common and costly mistakes buyers make. At Alabama Appliance in Irondale, AL, we’ve put together this complete pre-purchase checklist to help you shop with confidence.
✓ 1. Measure Your Space
Before anything else, measure the space where the appliance will go: width, height, and depth. Also measure every doorway and hallway through which the appliance will need to be delivered. Write down all measurements and bring them with you when you shop.
This is especially critical for:
- Refrigerators — account for door swing clearance and ventilation space
- Ranges — measure the exact cabinet opening width
- Dishwashers — check both width and the height under the countertop
- Washer and dryer — include pedestal height if applicable
✓ 2. Confirm Utility Connections
Verify that the necessary utility connections are already in place:
- Gas vs. electric: Confirm whether you need a gas line or an electrical outlet (and the correct voltage for ranges and dryers)
- Water supply and drain: Required for washers, dishwashers, and refrigerators with ice/water dispensers
- Dryer venting: Confirm you have a vented exhaust path, or choose a ventless heat pump dryer
✓ 3. Choose the Right Capacity
Match the appliance size to your household’s actual needs:
- Refrigerator: 4–6 cubic feet per person is a general guideline
- Washer: 3.5–4.5 cu. ft. for small to medium households; 5+ cu. ft. for larger families
- Dishwasher: 12+ place settings for families; 8–10 for individuals or couples
✓ 4. Check Energy Efficiency
Look for the Energy Star certification label. Also review the yellow EnergyGuide label to compare estimated annual energy costs between models. A slightly higher purchase price on a more efficient model often pays for itself within a few years.
✓ 5. Verify Fuel Type
Before purchasing a cooktop, range, or dryer, confirm whether your home supports gas or electric for that connection. Changing fuel types after the fact can be very expensive.
✓ 6. Compare Key Features
Make a short list of the features that matter most to you and confirm each model you’re considering has them. Common must-haves include:
- Convection or air fry in ovens
- Steam cycle in washers
- Moisture sensor in dryers
- Adjustable racks in dishwashers
- Smart connectivity if that matters to you
✓ 7. Check Available Rebates
Before finalizing any purchase, check current rebates and promotions. Manufacturer rebates, seasonal sales, and bundle offers can save you hundreds of dollars. Also ask about utility company rebates for Energy Star models in your area.
✓ 8. Consider the Scratch & Dent Option
If budget is a factor, check our scratch & dent inventory. These are brand-name appliances with minor cosmetic imperfections that perform exactly like brand-new models—at significantly lower prices.
✓ 9. Confirm the Brand and Warranty
Stick with reputable brands known for reliability and service support. Review the warranty terms—standard manufacturer warranties typically cover 1 year for parts and labor, with longer coverage on specific components like the compressor on a refrigerator.
✓ 10. Plan Delivery and Installation
Confirm delivery timeline, installation details, and whether old appliance removal is included. Make sure the delivery team knows about any tight doorways, stairs, or access constraints at your home.
Ready to Shop? We’re Here to Help.
Visit our showroom at 7956 Crestwood Blvd, Irondale, AL 35210, call (205) 777-5154, or email sales@alabamaappliance.com. At Alabama Appliance, we guide you through every step so you buy the right appliance—the first time.