Purchasing Guides

One of the ways to begin familiarizing yourself with new features is to check out high-end/top-of-the-line products. While you may not need all the bells and whistles, this will give you a good idea of what is currently available. Here you will also learn about "built-in" or "integrated" appliances--where the appliance is not noticeable because of a matching cabinet door panel installed on the front.

Visit appliance showrooms and ask a sales professional to explain the various features of the appliances in which you are interested. If you are not going to purchase your appliances for 3-6 months, ask if there are any new features on the near horizon. Often appliance manufacturers supply rebates that have an expiration date--so keep that in mind as well.

Your investigations will lead you to the right appliances that have the most appropriate options to meet both your needs and your budget. (See our Wants & Needs Checklist in the Research Phase of our Personal Project Organizer). You may also link to the appliance manufacturers' web sites for more information, pictures, and specs (see our Resource Index for an alphabetical list of appliance manufacturers). Link to the guest consumer area at Dimensions Express for current size specifications for almost all kitchen appliances (non-printable). Both appliance and kitchen cabinet showrooms provide occasional cooking demonstrations that will give you a "hands on" feel for the appliances.

Before you order your new appliances, review NKBA's "40 Guidelines" Section III, Appliance Placement and Use/Clearance Space for placement tips. Also recognize that appliances like refrigerators/freezers and dryers often have the ability to change the direction in which the door swings -- i.e. left or right. While your current appliances may open in one direction, think about the time and steps saved if the door were to swing in the other direction. If there is a choice, you can specify which direction the door(s) open when ordering your new appliances. For safety reasons, some appliances like microwaves and ovens do not have this option.

When you receive your new appliances, take the time to read through the owner's manual for operating directions and tips to get the most out of their special features--remember you paid for them! Mail or register on-line in the warranty cards. Put these manuals and associated paperwork in your Personal Project Organizer so that you can find them easily when needed.