The cost of owning and operating home appliances in the United Kingdom is higher than in many other countries around the world. This is because appliances are subject to Value Added Tax (VAT) as well as other taxes, fees, and levies. As a result, savvy shoppers may wonder, “Are there any tips for saving money on UK home appliance purchases and maintenance?” The short answer is yes, and here are a few:
Purchase Quality Appliances
One of the best ways to save money on UK home appliance purchases is to invest in quality items. Poorly made products often require expensive repair or replacement costs. Look for appliances with high energy ratings, as they tend to be more economical to run. Also, pick ones with good warranties. This way, you will have a better chance of recovering some of your costs if you do need to make repairs.
Avoid buying appliances in just the name brand. Instead, take a few moments to research lesser-known brands. You may be surprised to find low prices, combined with comparable features and quality.
Use Deals, Discounts, and Coupons
Many major retailers in the United Kingdom and the surrounding areas offer discounts and promotions on home appliance purchases. Keep an eye out for these deals, and consider holding off on purchases until discounts become available. Don’t forget to look for coupons and rebate deals, too. They may be available in newspapers, magazines, or online.
Take Notice of Case Deals
Some retailers will offer discounts when several appliances such as a rangehood, light fixtures, and kitchen appliances are purchased together as a set. The benefit of these types of packages is that they often come with a warranty and replacement parts can be purchased together at a discount.
Keep Replacement Parts On Hand
Buying replacement parts for major appliances such as ovens, refrigerators, and washing machines costs more than just replacing them. Keeping a few necessary parts in stock will make repairs easy and may save you from having to purchase an entirely new item. Make sure, however, that any parts or tools you purchase are of the same high quality as the original.
Practice Routine Maintenance
Just like any other type of equipment, home appliances require routine maintenance to remain efficient and safe. Make sure to clean your appliances regularly. Vacuum cleaners should be emptied after each use, while washing machines should be washed and rinsed out periodically. When completing other routine maintenance tasks, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and avoid using generic cleaning products, as they may harm your appliances.
Choose a Qualified Repair Person
When you need major repairs for home appliances, it’s best to hire a qualified repair person. While some people may be tempted to try DIY repair methods, doing so often ends up costing more in the long run. Qualified repair persons should be licensed, insured, and certified for the job. They should also provide you with a repair estimate and be willing to answer any questions you have.
Reuse and Recycle Appliances
If you no longer need an appliance, consider donating it to a thrift store, selling it online, or handing it down to family or friends. You may even be able to find a buyer or taker on a local Facebook marketplace. If not, you may be able to take advantage of appliance recycling programs. These programs are often available in major cities and often offer some type of incentive for your appliance donations.
By following these helpful tips, you can save plenty of money on UK home appliance purchases and maintenance. Use quality appliances, look for discounts and coupons, and consider ways to reuse and recycle them when you are done with them. Following these simple steps will keep your spending in check and ensure your appliances are running smoothly for years to come.