In today's economy buying a new refrigerator is a major expense, often far acceding what your budget allows. Purchasing a second hand refrigerator at a fraction of the cost may be the ideal way to go.
Considerations before buying
Before buying a second hand refrigerator it is best to determine just where this refrigerator will go. If it is going in the exact place of the refrigerator you are replacing you need to know the width and space available for this new purchase. Accurate measurement is essential to getting the perfect second hand refrigerator.
Colour may also be a factor in determining the refrigerator you purchase as you want it to fit in with the rest of kitchen decor. Read More ▼
Make sure that you have a way to move the second hand refrigerator or the place you are purchasing from can deliver it for you. There is nothing worse than purchasing a large item only to discover you have no way of getting it home.
What to look for
Look for name brand refrigerators. While name brand refrigerators may be a little more expensive even buying second hand, they are usually higher quality than those off brand names no one has ever heard. This will at least give you some assurance that the appliance is well made and built to last a reasonable length of time.
The age of the refrigerator should also be a consideration. Second hand refrigerators that were made in the last ten years are usually more efficient than older models.
Once you have found a refrigerator you like, do a through inspection. Start by checking the door seals. This can be simply done by inserting a sheet of paper and closing the door. Try pulling the paper out, if there is resistance when you tug on the paper this indicates a good seal. If the paper slides out easily the seal may need to be changed or the hinges readjusted.
Next, make sure that all the shelves, and drawers are in place and working properly. Also check the light and any knobs to make sure that they are not broken or missing.
Take the back off the refrigerator and look at the coils. Rusted, dust covered, or corroded coils may indicate that there is a strain on the motor. It is also a sign that the refrigerator was not maintained properly by the previous owner. A second hand refrigerator should be well maintained.
While it may not be possible to plug in and test the second hand refrigerator to make sure it is cooling properly in the store, at least make sure that if it does not cool properly when you get it home that you can return it for your money back.
If your budget allows it, have a professional inspect your second hand refrigerator before you purchase it as they will be able to identify problems you may not be aware exist.
Secondhand refrigerators can be a great deal and serve you for many years if you take the time and effort to find the right one to fit your needs.
Find Second Hand Refrigerators on Ebay
