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When Is the Best Time to Buy a Refrigerator? (2024 Guide)

man choosing refrigerator in appliance store

Refrigerators are a big expense that often costs between $1,000–$2,000. Knowing when the best time is to shop for a refrigerator can help you save some money.

It’s essential to know when’s the best time to shop in our post-pandemic world.

Below, learn about the best times and the worst times to buy a refrigerator. We also offer some tips to help you get great deals on your fridge, regardless of the shopping season.

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The 3 Best Times to Buy a Refrigerator

When shopping for refrigerators, there are three times throughout the year that offer the best deals: when other people are shopping, when new models are unveiled, and on major discount days. Let’s take a closer look.

1. When Other People Are Shopping

Shopping when other people are shopping is a great way to find great deals. Although this tip may sound contrary to the laws of supply and demand, you generally want to match your appliance shopping to when other people are shopping for appliances.

The reason for this is that the high-ticket items will increase in price, whereas the often-overlooked models will come in many varieties and price ranges. By shopping when other people are shopping, you will have plenty of items to pick from that come in at affordable prices.


2.  When New Models Are Unveiled (If You Don’t Mind an Older Model)

Most appliance companies unveil new models around the same time every year. For refrigerators, most new models are released around May. Whenever new models are released, the older models go on sale.

As such, look for refrigerators around May. During this month, the new models will be released so that you can get the older models for a steal.

This tip also applies to other appliances, though you may have to look at different times of the year. For example, dishwashers, washers, and dryers are normally released in September and October, making the fall a perfect time to shop for these appliances.

man choosing refrigerator
Image Credit: Viktoriia Sopel, Shutterstock

3. Major Discount Days

Before the worldwide shortages, there were certain holidays that you could count on major discounts. Some of these discounts include Independence Day, Labor Day, and Thanksgiving.

Although these discount days are sparser, there are still more deals around these holidays. Not to mention, these holidays will likely become popular shopping days again once shortages get rectified. So, keep an eye out for deals days to make the most of your budget.

divider 4 Worst Time to Buy a Refrigerator

Just as there are some great times to buy a refrigerator, there are times that you should avoid shopping for one. Some of the worst times to buy include when your old fridge breaks and when new models are unveiled if you want the newest model.

When Your Old Fridge Breaks

The last thing you want to do when shopping for a refrigerator is to wait until the last possible second.

Whenever your refrigerator breaks, you will be short on options. Instead of shopping for the best deal and taking your time to decide on a model, you will buy a refrigerator out of necessity. You won’t have the freedom to shop around and pick strategically.

Instead of waiting until your old fridge breaks, be aware of warning signs that your fridge is going out. Once these warning signs appear, start shopping for a new fridge. Then, replace the fridge once you find a deal you love.

refrigerator in the kitchen
Image Credit: Solomon Rodgers, Pixabay

When New Models Are Unveiled (If You Want the Newest Model)

Shopping for a refrigerator when new models are unveiled is the best time to shop if you don’t mind an older model. However, this time is the worst time to shop if you want the newest model.

During May, new models will be unveiled, and older models will go on sale. As such, May and June are when the new models are at their highest. Just by waiting a couple of months, you can still get the newest model but at a slightly discounted price.

house divider Tips for Getting Good Deals on Refrigerators

In addition to knowing the best times to shop for refrigerators, there are some other tips to keep in mind for getting good deals.

Look for Top-Mount Models

Over the last couple of years, bottom-mount refrigerators have become the most popular. Bottom-mount refrigerators are those where the freezer is placed at the bottom of the model. In contrast, top-mount models have a freezer at the top.

Bottom-mount models have become popular because they provide ease of access when reaching for food. You don’t have to worry about everything falling out. Due to the popularity of this model, bottom mount models are the most expensive.

Although bottom-mount models may make reaching for food more convenient, they are not great for your budget. Not to mention, they are harder to clean.

For these reasons, it’s good to look for top-mount models. These models will be more affordable and are easier to clean out.

a young man standing next to a smart refrigerator
Image Credit: Gorodenkoff, Shutterstock

Shop Model Instead of Maker

Most people make the mistake of shopping for refrigerators based on the maker. When you do this, you will have a wide range of products, but you won’t be able to compare the prices of individual models.

Instead of shopping for the maker, shop for a model that interests you. By shopping for a model, you are looking at refrigerators that meet your needs, but you will be able to compare prices. That way, you can get the best deal on a refrigerator you are interested in.


Get Refurbished Models

Shopping for refurbished models is a great way to save a lot of money on your refrigerator. Refurbished models will last a long time like new models, but they are way more affordable.

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Conclusion

The best time to buy a refrigerator is when other people are shopping and on major discount days. The worst time to shop is whenever your refrigerator breaks.

Depending on what you want from your refrigerator, the month of May could be the best or the worst time to shop. If you don’t mind older models, shop whatever new models are unveiled in May. If you want the newest model, wait a couple of months.

By sticking to these timeframes, as well as the tips mentioned above, you will be able to find a great refrigerator for a steal.


Featured Image Credit: BearFotos, Shutterstock

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