4 Reasons to Buy Your Next Big Appliance at Costco

I've always loved looking at appliances. When I was very young, I remember thinking that a kitchen filled with avocado-green appliances was the epitome of class. Lately, it's washers and dryers that hold an appeal for me. I realize that colorful appliances are nothing new, but dang, what's better than a navy blue washer and dryer combo?

What I'm really interested in, though, is knowing I've made a good financial decision. Here are four reasons I've learned to check Costco appliances before making a purchase.

1. Free extended warranty

Your average washer/dryer combo, dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, range, cooktop, water heater, and over-the-range microwave carry a one-year manufacturer warranty. But Costco extends the warranty to two years from the date of warehouse purchase or date of delivery if you buy the item online.

That's a long time to ensure an appliance is operating as it should. If there's a problem within that time, you know you're not on the hook for a major repair in the first 24 months.

Small refrigerators are the exception to the rule. To be eligible for a free extended warranty, a refrigerator must be above 10 cubic feet.

2. Free delivery and installation

Have you ever been surprised by how much your total sale price balloons once delivery and installation charges are added? If so, you'll appreciate that delivery and installation of new appliances are included in most areas. To learn if these services are included in your area, visit Costco.com, add an appliance to your cart, make sure your ZIP code is correct, and confirm that your area is covered.

There are a few caveats here, but free delivery and installation are still pretty sweet benefits. Here are a few things you should know:

• It's not always possible to have an appliance delivered and professionally installed on the same day. You may have to make a second appointment for it to be installed.
• If local codes require you to have a platform in place, it must be installed before installation of the appliance begins. For example, if a gas appliance must be installed a specific number of inches above the garage or basement floor, the platform must already be in place before the installation can begin.
• For safety reasons, a delivery crew cannot lift or hoist merchandise over countertops, banisters, or other obstructions. They are also unable to lift appliances through a window to get them into your home.

While there are a few rules and regulations to navigate, Costco's practice of delivering and installing appliances is sure to benefit your household budget.

3. The price you see is the price you pay

The last time we purchased an appliance at a large home improvement store, I was surprised to find that basic installation parts were not included in the price. Another way Costco helps protect your personal finances is by making sure you're not nickeled and dimed by all the extras needed to get an appliance up and running.

4. Old appliances are hauled away at no extra charge

Whether we're charging an appliance, mattress, or barbecue grill to our credit card at Costco, my husband's first question is always how we're going to get rid of the old one. This is about the time he reminds me that we could really use a pickup truck and about the time I remind him that I have no idea what we would do with the old appliance, mattress, or barbecue grill once we had it in a truck. Fortunately for us, Costco will haul away the old appliance without charging us a cent for the service.

Your best bet before making any major purchase is to shop around. However, if you're anything like us, you may find that what Costco has to offer beats the competition more often than not.