Community Operations
Consumer Affairs Tip Sheets
Home Appliances
Buying a major appliance should be done with care. Major appliances are an important purchase which you may have to live with for many years.
Most appliances will last for many years but eventually they will have to be replaced. The estimated life of specific appliances include the following:
- Freezer - 20 years
- Refrigerator - 15 years
- Stove, gas - 13 years
- Stove, electric - 12 years
- Dishwasher - 11 years
- Clothes washer - 11 years
- Clothes dryer - 14 years
- Television, color - 12 years
The purchase price of an appliance often involves more than the original price. You may also have to pay for shipping costs, installation fees and repair costs.
If you are planing to buy a major appliance follow these helpful hints:
- Ask your friends and neighbors about their experiences with different brands and models
- Look for the seal of approval on the product. This will indicate that the product meets safety and performance standards. Seals to watch for include Canadian Standards Association, Underwriters Laboratory of Canada and the Canadian Gas Association.
- Do not let salespeople pressure you into a quick decision. You do not have to buy anything until you are ready and prepared to do so.
- Ask about installation and delivery. Will you have to pay extra?
- Find out about the exchange policy in case you are not happy with the product. Can you return it?
Once you get your new appliance home, read the instructions booklet very carefully and follow the rules for use and care of the product. If you need help in this area, ask the salesperson to tell you the important points.
Make sure you keep all contracts, sales slips, booklets and copies of warranties in a safe place in case you need them again.
For more information, call collect or e-mail our Consumer Affairs Officer at MACA headquarters in Yellowknife at: (867) 873-7125.