Shopping Around For Used Refrigerators

Used refrigerators are cost-effective choices provided you do your research to ensure good working order. At some point, an HVAC professional will tell you that your current fridge is better off going to the scrap yard and thus not worth repairing. Due to the technician’s extensive background and training, this recommendation is normally a valid one. You do have a few options for replacing a burned-out refrigerator with a better quality used one.

Some knowledge in refrigeration technologies will go a long way in making this kind of purchase decision. Buying a new fridge, buying a used model or renting a refrigerator are the three main options you have in this case. Each also has its advantages and drawbacks when it comes to getting a good refrigerator for the best possible price.

Renting a Refrigerator

Many people initially think renting is a practical option for them. Rentals do not lock you into the high price paid up front for a new refrigerator. If a rented fridge ever breaks down, the rental company will typically take care of any repairs or maintenance. Repairs at little to no cost to you are part of the rental contract, and this translates into noticeable savings on expensive repairs. Renting a refrigerator is similar to leasing a vehicle; it gives you a consistent monthly payment you will need to factor into your household budget. Renting does come with a lack of future ownership, which is a downside for some individuals.

Purchase a Used Refrigerator

Used fridges are the least expensive of the three options, at least in terms of payments up front to the vendor. Some sellers offer buyers good prices on used refrigerators and will even haul the old, broken one away. The offer sounds excellent, but sometimes it can be too good to be true. Quality and reliability of used appliances can vary widely, and it’s normally difficult to tell how likely a used fridge is to break down in the future. Future possible repairs are one of the biggest risk factors to buying a used model.

If you decide to buy a used refrigerator, make every possible attempt not to get one with any existing mechanical problems. Making a basic repair may not prevent any more serious problems from happening with a refrigerator in the future. Repeated issues with any used appliance can end up costing you more in the long run than you would have paid for a brand new model in the first place. When you are comparing used fridges, there are a few inspection points to take note of, namely any visible damage to the doors, exterior or interior. Cracks or gaps can indicate possible cold air leakage, which will end up increasing your energy bill over time. Any fridge doors should also close securely and open without excessive force. Also learn where the gaskets are and inspect them to ensure they’re installed securely.

Buying a Brand New Refrigerator

New fridges are the best bets instead of used refrigerators, though they do come with the highest price tags. The cost up front is the highest, but you will save a noticeable amount on the repair bills in the longer term. Expect years to go by before you will need to call out an HVAC technician to fix a fridge you purchased new from a reputable brand name seller. The up front cost will also avoid you the continuing month to month payments that come with renting a fridge of similar quality. From an economic point of view, buying a used one is a bit of a risk without careful comparison shopping.