On buying a new Fridge, Oven, and Dishwasher...?

Question

We are building a new house and I need to go buy a new Fridge, Oven and Dishwasher. I want to get all stainless steel appliances (preferably a matte finish). I'd like a glass top oven. What are some features I should make sure these items have?

Answer 1

That's a tough question to answer as it requires some speculation. Having gone through this about a year ago, all I can do to provide any sort of reasonable answer is to examine your budget, and buy products that have as many "bells and whistles" i.e. features that you yourself judge as necessary.

When comparing one model to another (within the same brand) you'll often find that you will have the same fundamental "drive" parts in model Y as Model Z. Model Z, however, having more features will yield a higher price.

Decide what you really require in features, beyond a good solidly-built appliance, and let your pocket book be your guide.

Remember too, that added features, particularly in the electronics of all new appliances add complexity to the product, and eventually will be costlier to repair when the warranty expires.

My first choice in appliances has always been Whirlpool, they are a "top-of-the-line" brand name in kitchens and laundries all over the USA. They are, however, generally costlier than GE and similar brands.

A friend of mine in the appliance repair business did tell me one (unbiased) thing prior to my purchases. He said, stay away from LG products despite their appeal. He told me that the average cost to repair an LG appliance is 1/2 again to double that of virtually every other brand name appliance.

Good Luck on your purchase, and congratulations !!

Answer 2

IMHO: Dishwasher: Bosch Oven: Thermador (mine includes microwave) Cooktop: Thermador Fridge: SubZero Freezer: Very little difference among them, try Kenmore TV: Panasonic (plasma) or Sony (LCD) Toilet: Kohler I never found a single comprehensive website that helped me compare. So, I browsed until I figured out what the standards were for each appliance, and I built a spreadsheet. For instance, not everyone makes an 18.1 cubic foot refrigerator--they're 18.1 and 18.3 and 18.4 and so on. But, you can calculate a $/cubic foot cost, if price is important to you. You can also compare the cost to operate each appliance.

Answer 3

That's a toughie. Well, you want to make sure they are a good quality brand you can rely on. You want to make sure the stove has 4 burners, and an oven, higher temperatures, and a clock for the time. And make sure it's electric. For a dishwasher, you want one with many washing cycles and options. For a Fridge, you want a bottom drawer, a freezer, and an ice machine for ice. Make sure it has plenty of room too!

Answer 4

Just don't buy Maytag. I bought a new refrigerator about three months ago and it has broken down three times! The company isn't owned by Maytag any more and the quality has gone down the toilet.

Here's a link to the blog on it.

Answer 5

I wish I had the opportunity to buy all new appliances. :-0
I would buy them in my favorite color, or stainless steel.