Shopping for Appliances? Look for These Signs of Quality

Shopping for new appliances is expensive and frustrating if you aren’t prepared to replace a refrigerator or dryer. Once you determine your budget, it’s time to look for a replacement that will work with your lifestyle and home design.

Instead of buying the cheapest or most expensive appliance, going for quality is better. A quality appliance will last longer and give you fewer problems over time. 

There are many ways to determine the quality of a new home appliance, and KBS Companies has put together this guide to help!

Brand Awareness

If you find an appliance brand you’ve never heard of, check its reputation online. Established brands with a history of reliability and customer satisfaction usually produce higher-quality appliances. 

Some brands that have long histories of great appliances include: 

• Bosch

• KitchenAid

• Samsung

• Miele

A no-name brand appliance might be okay for the short term, but you cannot verify if other users had good experiences. 

Energy Efficiency

The standard for energy efficiency is called Energy Star. When an appliance has an Energy Star rating or is approved by Energy Star, that means it meets or exceeds energy efficiency guidelines. 

Energy-efficient appliances save you money on utility bills and tend to be built with quality in mind. Research the energy ratings offered by the brands you’re interested in to narrow down your favorites.

Construction & Materials

Check appliances for durable materials. A high-quality appliance will likely be made from stainless steel, heavy-duty plastics, and tempered glass. 

Many appliances can take a beating by frequent use, so the one you choose should stand up to your lifestyle. Pay attention to the overall build quality and solidity of the appliance.

Operation

Technology has progressed so that high-quality appliances tend to run smoothly and quietly. When you test them in a store, pay attention to how smoothly doors open and close, how buttons and controls feel, and whether there are any unusual noises. 

Warranty

If the appliance you’re looking at has a long warranty, that’s typically a sign that the manufacturer is confident in the appliance’s construction and design. They aren’t afraid to stand behind their product because they know it will last. 

A shorter warranty could be a red flag. 

In addition, check the warranty to ensure it includes both parts and labor. 

Reviews & Recommendations

Reviews from other buyers are very helpful when determining which appliance to buy. Many negative reviews should be a warning that the appliance isn’t up to snuff. 

Make sure you read through the reviews, both negative and positive, and decide if the pros and cons are fine with you. As an example, a negative review might include the appliance’s color, but that may not be a problem for you. 

You can also ask friends and family for their recommendations. If they have an appliance they love, check it out on your own to see if it fits you. 

Service & Support

When you need support for your appliance, you don’t want to spend a lot of time searching for a phone number or website. Before you buy, ensure there are service centers or customer support options available. 

A reliable manufacturer will offer accessible support in case you encounter any issues with your appliance. 

Safety Features

Safety features are essential, particularly if you have children or pets. Quality appliances will incorporate safety features to protect users and prevent accidents. 

Check for certifications and safety features such as auto shut-off mechanisms and child locks, especially for appliances like ovens and stoves. 

Shop for New Appliances With KBS Companies in MN

KBS Companies is proud to offer quality appliances in our retail store in Plainview, Minnesota! 

We have high-quality brand names of many appliances, including: 

• Washers & Dryers

• Refrigerators

• Ranges

• Dishwashers

• Microwaves

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, we’re happy to order the specific item you want. We can help you choose the best appliance for your home. 

If you have questions, give us a call at 507-534-3855 or send us a message on our website. You can also visit us in person at our Plainview store.