where is a good place to buy appliances. ref, stove, dishwasher. I been thinking of just doing the box stores, but been dragging my feet. what about Lowes?
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story

The crew discusses finding rot when remodeling, challenges installing custom shower panels, and how to prevent subs and suppliers from sabotaging builds.
Featured Video
How to Install Exterior Window TrimHighlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
check your local yellowpages. Manytimes there are local small business stores that specialize in appliances and such for the builder. The prices will be the same and id be willing to bet the service will be superb over the big boxes and delivery will probably be free and within two days. And any problems you have will probably be easier to work out with the little guy over the customer service rep at the big boxes.
Agreed. And check ahead on service. I've not seen a collection of appliances installed where at least one didn't need servicing within days. Find out who they use and how fast they respond. For things like this, I don't like having to call a store for help, I like having to call a person--specifically the salesperson who sold them to me and made the commission.
If you're looking at standard appliances, look at Sears. Pretty good prices which are negotiable, and timely delivery and service.
For the frillier "cha-ching" stuff I use a full-fledged appliance store. Nothing but appliances.
You know, one thing you do not mention is what your application is to be. Let me give you an example.
Our washing machine broke. Naturally, 2 of the kids were throwing up sick and the other end was too active too.
My wife went to a local big box. They could have sold her a (name your favorite brand). She told the salesman we are foster parents and had 6 at the time, plus ours. The salesman said "Lady, you need a _____". He did not sell it.
We phoned all the dealers of that brand and got a good deal, but more expensive than a cheaper brand from the B.B.
Know what you need before you pick the dealer.
At my age, my fingers & knees arrive at work an hour after I do.
Aaron the Handyman
Vancouver, Canada
you will notice that the prices for major appliances are pretty constant, the manufacturers seem to do a good job of keeping their dealers (big and small) in line. Check the big boxes for special order merchandise that was canceled, we just picked up a Thermador oven/warming drawer/microwave and a Bosch dishwasher at the local Expo center, saved $1k off what it would have cost us to buy it off the showroom floor.
Just got a refrigerator. Ditto Sears for selection. You can always find a salesperson, and they know their stuff. However, these things go on and off sale about every one to two weeks. They keep a list of the dates. Ask for them. And they have a 30 day price guarantee policy. Then you gotta watch for the free delivery - which is a rebate you mail in. Yes we jumped thru hoops to get the best deal, but they count on not everybody mastering the maze. As far as best products, can't beat Consumer Reports for recommendations. That's what jump started me.
I'd vote for Sears as well... I've gotten 2 refrigerators and 2 dishwashers over the past 12 months from Sears.com... It's amazing to me that you can pick what you want from the web site, select options like door swing, etc. and have it delivered in a couple of days.
The whole thing worked great for me both times I used it.
This just goes to show that successful shopping is achieved on a case-by-case, area by area basis: The Sears here is terrible...employees hardly know a refrigerator from a leaf blower and the service is worse.
A local Mom and Pop is the place to go here, with better prices, better selection, more knowledgeable sales people and first-class service.
Look around. Talk to friends and neighbors. As someone said, appliances are pretty competitive regardless of the size of retailer. Oft times, like buying furniture, you can negotiate the price; there's a pretty good markup on most appliances and employees working on commission are often willing to work with a customer on a sale.