Buying a used appliance can be a smart move—if you know what you’re doing. With the right approach, you can save hundreds of dollars and still get years of reliable service from a secondhand fridge, washer, or oven. But if you don’t do your homework, you might end up with a lemon that costs more to repair than it did to buy.
Austin has a booming market for secondhand appliances, from Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to dedicated appliance resellers. But before you pull the trigger on a “gently used” washer, here’s what you need to know.
1. Check the Age and Expected Lifespan
Appliances aren’t built to last forever. Before buying, find out how old the unit is and compare it to the typical lifespan of that appliance.
Here’s a rough guide:
APPLIANCE
Refrigerator
Gas Range
Electric Range
Dishwasher
Washing Machine
Dryer
Microwave
AVERAGE LIFESPAN
10-15 years
15-20 years
13-15 years
7-12 years
10-14 years
10-13 years
7-10 years
If the used fridge you’re eyeing is already 12 years old, you might only get a few more years out of it—if you’re lucky. A good rule of thumb: avoid anything older than 50% of its expected lifespan unless it’s dirt cheap.
If you’re buying a gas or electric range, make sure it’s compatible with your kitchen’s existing setup. If it requires modifications to the gas line or electrical connections, you might need professional oven hookup to get it safely up and running.
2. Look for Red Flags in the Listing
When browsing online listings, be wary of vague descriptions like “works great” without any specifics. If the seller isn’t willing to give details—model number, age, reason for selling—it’s a bad sign.
Ask for clear photos of the appliance plugged in and running. For refrigerators, request a picture of the inside showing the temperature display. If they can’t provide proof it works, assume it doesn’t.
3. Inspect Before You Buy
Never trust a seller’s word alone. If possible, test the appliance yourself before paying. Here’s what to check:
- Refrigerators & Freezers: Run them for at least 10 minutes. Feel for cold air. If the compressor is noisy or cycles too often, it might be on its last legs.
- Ovens & Stovetops: Turn on all burners and set the oven to preheat. If it takes forever or has cold spots, it could need repairs. If you’re not confident in setting it up, you’ll need appliance install service to get it hooked up properly.
- Washers & Dryers: Run a short cycle. Listen for loud banging, which could indicate worn bearings. A dryer that takes more than 45 minutes per load might have a clogged vent.
Dishwashers: Check the racks for rust, inspect the seals for mold, and run a rinse cycle to confirm it doesn’t leak.
4. Beware of “As-Is” Sales
Most used appliances are sold “as-is,” meaning no refunds or warranties. If a seller refuses to let you test the unit or claims “it just needs a minor fix,” assume the worst.
That said, some Austin appliance resellers do offer short warranties—usually 30 to 90 days. This is ideal since any major issues will likely show up within the first month of use.
5. Don’t Overpay for Luxury Features
Used high-end appliances might seem like a steal, but they often have more complicated (and expensive) parts to replace.
For instance, a basic washing machine with manual dials will last longer and be cheaper to repair than a fancy front-loader with a touchscreen panel. The more bells and whistles, the more things that can break.
6. Factor in Installation Costs
Even if you score a great deal, don’t forget to budget for installation. Some appliances, like built-in and over-the-range microwaves, require professional setup. If you’re not handy, hiring an expert for microwave install can save you a ton of frustration.
7. Consider Energy Efficiency
Older appliances are often energy hogs. That “cheap” fridge from 2005 could be adding $100+ a year to your electricity bill. Check the yellow EnergyGuide sticker (if it’s still there) or look up the model number online to compare energy usage.
If you’re in an area with high electricity rates, a newer Energy Star model might be a better long-term investment, even if it costs more upfront.
8. Know When to Walk Away
Some used appliances just aren’t worth the headache. Walk away if:
- The appliance has visible rust, mold, or excessive wear.
- It smells like burnt plastic (a sign of electrical issues).
- The seller won’t let you test it.
- It needs major repairs right away.
If you take home a used appliance and it starts acting up sooner than expected, repairs might still be a better option than replacing it again. Whether you’re in Austin or nearby areas like Kyle, appliance repair in Kyle, TX can help you get it back in working order without the hassle of hunting for another secondhand deal.
Secondhand, Not Second-Guessing
Buying a used appliance can be a great way to save money—but only if you know what to look for. Avoid anything too old, test before you buy, and be cautious with “as-is” sales. And if installation or repairs are needed, it’s often worth calling in a pro to handle the job right the first time.
