Things to check before you buy a new appliance this Black Friday

Black Friday falls on Friday 27 November this year, and with it comes a flood of deals on washing machines, fridge freezers, ovens and more. If your current appliance is on its last legs, it can be a good time to buy.

But a good deal is only good if it's the right appliance for you. In this guide, we'll go through the things worth checking before you buy, so your new appliance is a choice you're happy with long after the sales are over.

In this blog

1. Do you need a new one?
2. Measure up
3. Check the energy label
4. Look past the headline price
5. Plan delivery, installation and removal
6. Know your rights
7. Register it and keep the paperwork
8. Check what your warranty covers
9. Frequently asked questions

Do you need a new one?

Before you add anything to your basket, it’s worth asking whether your current appliance could be fixed. Many faults are simpler than they seem, and under the UK’s Right to Repair rules, manufacturers have to keep spare parts for washing machines, dishwashers and fridge freezers available for up to 7 or 10 years after a model is discontinued. Our guide on why older appliances are worth protecting explains more.

If you have appliance insurance with us, let us know before you start shopping. A repair might be all it needs, and if it’s beyond repair, we’ll replace it like-for-like or offer a settlement.

Measure up

It sounds obvious, but it's one of the most common mistakes. Measure the space the appliance will go in, including the depth, and leave room for pipes, cables and air to circulate. Then measure the route in: doorways, hallways and stairs. A fridge freezer that won't fit through the kitchen door is no bargain.

Check the energy label

Appliances like washing machines, dishwashers and fridge freezers carry an energy label rated from A to G. A more efficient model may cost a little more upfront but less to run, which adds up over the years you'll own it. The label also shows other useful details, like noise levels and, for washing machines, water use.

Look past the headline price

Black Friday deals aren't always as good as they look. Some prices are the same, or even lower, at other times of the year. It's worth checking how the price has changed over the past few months, and comparing the exact model number across a few retailers before you buy.

Plan delivery, installation and removal

The price on the label is rarely the full cost. Check whether delivery, installation and taking your old appliance away are included, or if they cost extra. Retailers selling electrical items have to offer a way to take back your old appliance when you buy a similar new one, but collection from your home may come with a charge.

Know your rights

Whether you buy in store or online, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 says what you buy must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described. If it's faulty, you usually have 30 days to reject it for a full refund.

If you buy online or over the phone, you also normally have 14 days to cancel after delivery, even if nothing is wrong with it. You may have to pay to send it back, so check the retailer's returns policy before you order.

Register it and keep the paperwork

Once your new appliance arrives, register it with the manufacturer. You can do this for many brands through Register My Appliance. It means you can be contacted if there's ever a safety recall, and it can help with your warranty too. Keep your receipt and the model number somewhere safe.

Check what your warranty covers

New appliances usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty, often for a year or two. But most warranties only cover manufacturing faults, not accidental damage, and once the warranty ends, any repairs are down to you. Appliance insurance can fill those gaps from the start, so you’re covered for breakdowns and accidents alike.

Frequently asked questions

Can I return an appliance I bought online?

Usually, yes. You normally have 14 days from delivery to cancel an online order, even if there's nothing wrong with it. If it's faulty, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 gives you extra protection.

Do I need to register my new appliance?

It isn't required, but it's a good idea. Registering means the manufacturer can contact you if there's a safety recall, and it can make warranty claims simpler.

Should I repair my old appliance instead?

It depends on the fault, its age and how well it suits your home. A lot of faults are quick and affordable to fix, so it’s worth getting it looked at before you decide.

Want peace of mind for the appliances you rely on? Get an appliance insurance quote today.