Home Appliance Buying Guide

Here's an appliance buying guide to help you choose the best appliances for your needs, space, and budget. This guide covers the essential categories: refrigerators, ranges, washer-dryers, dishwashers, and more.

🛒 1. Before buying: the right questions to ask yourself

  • What size space is available in your kitchen/laundry room?
  • Do you need smart features (Wi-Fi, remote controls)?
  • What is your ideal energy consumption ?
  • Do you prioritize design or performance ?
  • What are your daily habits and needs (family, single, etc.)?

❄️ 2. Refrigerator

Types:

  • French doors : Large space, freezer at the bottom.
  • Side by side : Upright refrigerator and freezer.
  • With top/bottom freezer : Compact and affordable.
  • Built-in models : For high-end kitchens.

To consider:

  • Capacity in ft³ (for 3-4 people: min. 18-20 ft³)
  • Water/ice dispenser
  • Adjustable temperature zones
  • No Frost Technology
  • Energy class (ENERGY STAR)

🔥 3. Stove / Oven

Types:

  • Electric coil : The most economical.
  • Smooth ceramic glass surface : Modern, easy to clean.
  • Induction : Ultra-fast, safe, efficient heating.
  • Gas : For precise cooking (requires connection).

Useful functions:

  • Convection : More even cooking.
  • Self-cleaning (by pyrolysis or steam)
  • Integrated air fry mode (becoming more common in 2025)
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity / Voice Assistant

🧼 4. Dishwasher

To consider:

  • Quiet : Less than 44 dB ideal.
  • Capacity (12 to 16 place settings)
  • Utensil drawer vs. classic basket
  • Quick / eco / steam programs
  • Stainless steel, black or white finish depending on your decor

👕 5. Washer / Dryer

Types:

  • Stackable or side by side
  • Front loading (more efficient) or top loading (faster)

Features:

  • Washing capacity (4.5 cu. ft. and up for families)
  • Specialized cycles (baby laundry, quick wash, steam, allergens)
  • Anti-vibration / anti-humidity technology
  • Dryer with humidity sensor to automatically shut off

💡 6. Other small appliances to consider

  • Microwave with integrated hood to save space
  • Wine cellar : Ideal for enthusiasts
  • Quiet kitchen hood : Less than 400 CFM recommended

🌿 7. Energy consumption

Choose ENERGY STAR appliances:

  • Up to 30% energy savings per year
  • Quieter and often more durable

🧩 8. Design and finishes

Finishing

Style

Stainless steel

Modern, classic, easy to match

Matte black

Stylish and trendy in 2025

White

Sleek, often less expensive

Black stainless steel

High-end, low-maintenance

🎯 9. Buying tips in 2025

  • Don't just rely on looks: compare specifications .
  • Check out customer reviews and in-store demonstrators .
  • Measure your spaces accurately before purchasing.
  • Follow the advice of your ElectroShop specialist to find the best models at the best price.