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APPLIANCE BUYINGGUIDE
A step-by-step guide to find the right products for your home project
Published by Yale Appliance
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This buying guide answers common questions and advises on thepitfalls of buying appliances. Our Appliance Buying Guide willequip you with all information for dealing with an appliance storeto receive the best deal without losing sleep or sanity.
First, let’s talk about what products work and what could be better.The average appliance will need service 13.1% of the time withinthe first year according to 35,256 logged service calls.
Some brands have consistently excelled like Miele, Gaggenau,Whirlpool, and Bosch. Some have not. Read these articles tounderstand both.
A p p l i a n c e s
Overview
The 5 Most Serviced Appliance Brands
Most Reliable Appliance Brands
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BrandsWe discuss brands in the Premium,
Affordable Luxury and Affordable brackets
What to KnowAppliance industry terms and topics to consider in your search
A p p l i a n c e s
Table of ContentsClick the circles to move between sections
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What’s NewNew technologies and products in
the appliance world
10 Common QuestionsAnswers to commonly asked questions we hear from customers all the time, and our best tips to protect yourself
Buying StrategiesHow to buy products by brand
About YaleA little about us
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BRANDSWe discuss brands in the Premium, Affordable Luxury, and Commodity segments
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Brands: Sub-Zero, Wolf, Thermador, Jenn-Air, Viking, Miele, BlueStar, and Liebherr.
What to Expect: Pro or integrated refrigerator, wall oven and cooktop or pro range, European dishwasher.
B r a n d s
Premium
Wolf Kitchen at Yale Appliance in Framingham
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Brands: Bosch, Electrolux, Bosch Benchmark, Café Appliances, Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, GE Profile, and Samsung.
What to Expect: Shallow depth refrigerator, slide-in cooking with enhanced burners, stainless interior dishwasher.
B r a n d s
Affordable Luxury
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Brands: Maytag, LG, GE, Samsung, Amana, Frigidaire, and Whirlpool.
What to Expect: Regular freestanding gas or electric range, over-the-range microwave, and a domestic dishwasher.
B r a n d s
Commodity
Samsung Kitchen at Yale Appliance in Hanover
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WHAT TO KNOWAppliance industry terms and topics to consider in your search
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There have been several finishes, Black Stainless Steel, Black Ice, White Ice, Copper Bronze, Slate, and Cobalt, but Black Stainless is 20-30% of most purchases. It's darker than stainless, making it an attractive look, but it scratches easily and once scratched, it reveals the shinier steel underneath.
Check out the articles below about the different finishes available and your options:
W h a t t o K n o w
Finishes
BlueStar Range in Black at Yale Appliance in Boston
How Hard is it to Scratch Black Stainless Steel?
Is Stainless Going Out of Style?
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Before the recession, rebates were solely for commodity brands but have now included even the best brands. For the best price, research rebates as they can be up to 35% of the product value.
The best times to buy appliances are President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day and Black Friday (which is now all of November). Buy during these times if you can.
W h a t t o K n o w
The Best Time to Buy Kitchen Appliances
When is the best time to buy appliances?
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Buying the same brand is smart, provided you like each piece, because the handles and aesthetics will match. Most manufacturers will also offer additional rebates for package purchases.
W h a t t o K n o w
Kitchen Packages
Best Stainless SteelPackages
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Without question, service is the toughest part of the appliance business.
Manufacturers have exited the service industry, as have many independents, so it is incredibly difficult to actually fix an appliance.
It is important to ask who will actually service the product before you buy.
W h a t t o K n o w
Service
Yale Appliance Service Technician
Why Your Broken Appliance Won’t Be Repaired
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Delivery is the second biggest issue after service because it is handled so differently by retailers. Some companies offer “curbside” delivery where the product is unloaded at the sidewalk. There are “in-house” delivery options which may include removal, power cords and installation.
People tend to compare products (which is good), but delivery with all the options can be expensive. Compare before you buy.
W h a t t o K n o w
Delivery
Yale Appliance Delivery Team
Delivery: Free, White Glove and In-House
Our Free Delivery Comparison Checklist
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Appliances will need service within the first year 14.3% of the time, so like any insurance it’s a numbers game.
Do not buy a service contract from a company that does not physically offer service.
W h a t t o K n o w
Service Contracts
Photo credit: Drury Design via Houzz
Are Appliance Extended Warranties Worth It?
Increasing Importance of Appliance Service
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WHAT'S NEWNew technologies and products in the appliance world
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Technology
New Jenn-Air Wi-Fi Wall Oven
Miele M-Touch Wall Oven Video
Smart technology is the future of how you will buy an appliance. Samsung, Jenn-Air, SKS, LG, GE, Thermador and Miele have appliances with the ability to control remotely with basic functions. This Jenn-Air oven has Alexa capabilities and will be able to scan your refrigerator for ingredients and program the dishwasher accordingly.
However, there are still connectivity issues. The functions are still basic, so you should make your decision about which one to buy based on features and prices. Smart technology should not be a reason yet.
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The new Samsung Chef Collection offers functionality and style for a kitchen suite. SKS offers Sous Vide and induction in a professional range.
W h a t ’ s N e w
New Upscale Brands
SKS Professional Gas Ranges
Samsung Chef Collection Professional Range
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Steam is the healthiest way to cook because it adds moisture while not baking out the nutrients in your food. It is not actually new. Miele and Gaggenau have marketed a steam oven for years.
Jenn-Air, Thermador and Wolf now produce one at lower prices. Thermador introduced steam in their pro range in 2013. Miele has asteam assist option in their range as of February, 2015. Samsung has also introduced steam in 2018.
Thermador has introduced a full steam wall oven, so you can cook a whole turkey in the oven.
W h a t ’ s N e w
Steam Cooking
Photo credit: Yasmine Goodman / Houzz
MIELE 48”
The Best Steam Ovens
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Sous vide is a precise method of cooking using water immersion instead of direct heat. It’s great for cooking in large batches or for consistent results every time you cook.
It’s gaining popularity with Miele, Gaggenau, and SKS offering different ovens with sous vide capabilities.
W h a t ’ s N e w
Sous Vide
What is Sous Vide Cooking? [VIDEO]
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Advanced Front Load
Front loads are now available with AI, Wi-Fi, and even advanced Microban technology.
Always remember to check the width and depth of your space before buying any washer or dryer.
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In laundry, steam has become the hot feature because it works well in a few ways. It will power out stains, de-wrinkle clothes, and remove odors.
Speaking of laundry, the laundry room with better access to the kitchen or bedroom is a definite trend.
W h a t ’ s N e w
Steam Laundry
Photo credit: Kate Johns AIA / Houzz
Does Steam in a Washing Machine Really Work?
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Speed ovens are really microwave convection combos with the ability to microwave, convection cook or work in combination to save time.
The speed oven is a new slant on an older idea. Speed ovens with a single oven are replacing double ovens for more customized cooking.
W h a t ’ s N e w
Speed Ovens
Photo credit: Kate Johns AIA / Houzz
Four Best Speed Ovens
Miele MasterChef Wall Oven
Photo credit: Paula Kennedy CMKBD via Houzz
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Drawers offer more accessibility, especially in lower areas like islands and base cabinets. Speed ovens, microwaves, refrigerators and icemakers are now available as drawers or hinged.
W h a t ’ s N e w
Drawers
Photo credit: Kate Johns AIA / Houzz
Photo credit: Erin Sander Design via Houzz
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If drawers are a trend than side swing hinges for wall ovens could be as well. It’s a good idea as you will no longer have to lift a turkey or roast over the oven door.
Look at the new Bosch Benchmark for a really cool side swing oven.
W h a t ’ s N e w
Side Swing Wall Ovens
Best Side Swing Wall Ovens
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White may be the new alternative to stainless steel. Look at GE Cafe for ranges and Miele for built ins (pic of GE in store).
However, stainless will always be the predominant color because it matches every cabinet finish.
Consider using color to highlight a single piece. La Cornueoffers a variety of colorful finishes for professional ranges. BlueStar also has 750 custom colors.
W h a t ’ s N e w
The Return of Custom Color Finishes
Best Custom Color Alternatives to Stainless Steel for Appliances
GE Café Kitchen at Yale Appliance in Hanover
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Companies like Miele, Wolf, Dacor, and Fisher & Paykel all have 36-inch induction ranges.
W h a t ’ s N e w
Upscale Induction Ranges
Best 36-Inch Induction Ranges
Should You Buy a Fisher & Paykel 36-Inch Induction Range?
Miele Induction Range at Yale Appliance in Framingham
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French doors are available in different configurations like 2 door with drawers, 4 doors and even 5 doors.
There are also new features for French door refrigerators, like Samsung’s Smart Hub allowing you to turn your refrigerator into a portal or GE’s Keurig coffee system.
Bosch now has two compressors to keep food fresher.
W h a t ’ s N e w
New French Door Refrigerators
Samsung 4-Door vs. KitchenAid 5-Door Refrigerator
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Heat pump dryers use compressors to move the existing air in the drum instead a heating element warming new air. They are 50% more efficient than a normal dryer but do take a longer time to dry.
Whirlpool, LG and Blomberg currently market the heat pump dryer in the US. Miele may have the best and the most efficient heat pump dryer at only 110 volts.
W h a t ’ s N e w
Heat Pump Dryers
Best Non-Venting Options for Full-Size Laundry
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Ventless or condenser dryers do not require a vent and turn steam in the drum to water, allowing you to place a dryer anywhere.
Want to relocate your laundry from the basement to the upstairs closet? You can with a ventless dryer. You only need water and 220V power.
W h a t ’ s N e w
Ventless Dryers
Photo credit: Kate Johns AIA / Houzz
Photo credit: Francesca Owings Interior Design via Houzz
What are the benefits of Ventless and Heat Pump Dryers?
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WANT TO LEARN MORE?Want more tips, tricks, reliability statistics, and information about kitchen appliances sent directly to
your inbox? Sign up below.
SEND ME THE UPDATES
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10 COMMON QUESTIONS
Answers to commonly asked questions we hear from consumers
331 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
Wall Oven & Cooktop vs. Range
Wall ovens are more accessible but ranges offer more centralized cooking in less space. This is the most important question in kitchen planning because it impacts so much.
VS
Photo credit: Porcelanosa, Precision Cabinets via Houzz
Free Wall Oven Buying Guide
341 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
Front Control vs. Slide-In vs. Freestanding Ranges
Freestanding ranges have the controls on the back, blocking your backgaurd. Slide-in and front control ranges are similar because you can see your backsplash. Slide-in ranges fit over the counter so there is no seam, for easier cleaning. Front control ranges have the seam but are easier to install.
VS
Photo credit: Aidan Design, Stewart Thomas Design-Build via Houzz
Freestanding vs. Slide-In Ranges
Slide-In vs. Front Control Ranges
351 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
Top Load vs. Front Load Laundry
Front load is larger, more efficient and is gentler on your clothes. Read the Yale Washer Buying Guide to understand all the differences between top and front load washers.
VS
Photo credit: Samsung, Visbeen Architects via Houzz
Free Washer Buying Guide
361 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
Front Load vs. Hybrid Top Load Laundry
Hybrid promises the better efficiency of a front load with the convenience of a top load. It’s a good idea, but doesn’t really work.
VS
Photo credit: Avonlea Homes, Nor-Son Inc. via Houzz
Hybrid Top Load vs. Front Load Washers
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Induction Gas Pro Gas Electric
1 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
Induction vs. Gas vs. Pro Gas vs. Electric
Of the 4, induction is the best cooking surface for speed and simmer. If you are buying a pro gas unit for power, regular gas ranges now have high output burners as well.
381 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
Updraft vs. Downdraft
Updraft is better for ventilation as smoke naturally rises. You also have way more capture area in a hood than a downdraft. Do NOT downdraft a pro range as it will not capture the smoke and heat.
VS
Photo credit: Knight Associates, Home Restoration Services via Houzz
Free Ventilation Buying Guide
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Regular + Counter DepthThe regular counter depth doesn’t protrude from the cabinets
and looks like a household refrigerator at a much cheaper price.
Integrated + Built-InDifferent styles of refrigerators with very different prices.
Integrated (left) is hidden, professional (right) is commercial looking with the compressor on top.
1 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
Professional vs. Integrated vs. Counter Depth
Counter Depth Buying Guide
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Yes (depending on the dishwasher). Under 44 dBA is considered quiet. Bosch and KitchenAid are the quietest at 37 dBA and Miele is also under 40 dBA.
Here’s a tip. Don’t overpay for an extremely quiet dishwasher. 44 dBA is incredibly quiet. Extremely quiet dishwashers can cost $1,000 more.
1 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
Will This DishwasherBe Quiet?
Photo credit: Superior Woodcraft, Inc. via Houzz
Quietest Dishwasher by Decibel Rating
Best Dishwasher Brands
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In most cases that answer is no. Yet, out of thousands of appliance dealers only 5% service what they sell.
You should always inquire about service before you buy any appliance.
1 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
Can I Get My Appliance Fixed?
Yale Appliance Service Technician
Why Doesn’t Every Appliance Brand and Store Offer Service?
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Miele, Gaggenau, Yale Hoods, LG, Samsung and Whirlpool are the most reliable based on sales versus service calls over the first 12-month period. Our service department completed 35,256 service calls in 2019.
Read this article for more information.
1 0 C o m m o n Q u e s t i o n s
What Are The Most Reliable Appliance Brands?
Most Reliable Appliance Brands
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BUYING STRATEGIES
How to choose products by product category
.
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By size, dishwashers are all the same. Refrigerators fit within standard cabinets, typically 30”, 33” and 36” width.
The biggest choice in premium is between cooktop and wall oven or a regular range. The cooking choices determine the layout of the kitchen. Placement of islands, lighting and cabinets depend on this decision.
Sub-Zero dominates the refrigeration, although integrated products from Thermador have become popular.
Cooking is very competitive with Wolf, Miele, Jenn-Air, Viking and Thermador vying for your business.
The best dishwashers are Bosch and Miele. Products can be paneled or integrated.
B u y i n g S t r a t e g i e s
Buying Premium
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This is the most competitive segment in the appliance industry.
Samsung, LG, Jenn-Air, and Bosch have great products in this category. Convection cooking, slide-in ranges and over-the-range microwaves are hallmarks of this segment.
Jenn-Air has really good gas products. Bosch has the best dishwasher and a very stylish appearance.
Look for rebate programs to influence your choices and always try to buy around the holidays like Black Friday, Labor Day, Presidents’ Day, and Memorial Day.
B u y i n g S t r a t e g i e s
Buying Affordable Luxury
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Look at overall value. It’s easy to compare different brands.
Samsung seems to have a lock on refrigeration and basic stainless-steel products. Look at Whirlpool for some decent cooking products as well.
B u y i n g S t r a t e g i e s
Buying Commodity
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How to Protect Yourself
You may think appliances will be an easy purchase. Unfortunately with delivery, installation, damage, and the increasing amount of service, it can be a stressful ordeal.
Read the articles below to protect yourself and make the best buying decisions.
Remember, you have the most leverage before you buy anything.
10 Kitchen Appliance and Lighting Mistakes
B u y i n g S t r a t e g i e s
Why Doesn’t Every Appliance Brand Offer Service?
5 Major Problems Hurting Appliance Retailers and What This Means for You
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Buy where you’re comfortable
There are tons of stores and products, but a limited number of consumers. Check review sites like Yelp, CitySearch, Google and the Better Business Bureau before you purchase.
Remember, any store can sell an appliance; the biggest issues are shipping and service.
B u y i n g S t r a t e g i e s
Wisdom of Crowds
49E x c l u s i v e O f f e r
Appliance Delivery Checklist
Our free checklist will help you avoid a delivery nightmare. At the end, you will know what to ask from your local, national, or box store appliance dealer.
Delivery is one of the biggest causes for your dissatisfaction. You need to be prepared.
In the Delivery Checklist you’ll learn:
• How to choose a dealer with a first class delivery experience• Which questions to ask to spot a quality delivery team• The importance of online reviews to help your appliance
search
Get the Free Appliance Delivery Checklist
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ABOUT USProud to be family owned and operated since 1923.
Photo credit: Eastbank Contractor Appliances / Houzz
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Yale has been based in Boston for over 90 years and operates three showrooms; in Boston, Framingham, and Hanover. We operatethe largest independent service and repair department in New England with 60 people and 35 service technicians. Our sales staff hasan average of 7 years experience, and our staff chef can help you learn to use your new appliances.
A p p l i a n c e s
About Us
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VISIT OUR STORESNow you can schedule a free, private showroom visit to go over the needs of your
project. Choose a time that works for your schedule to visit our Boston, Framingham, or Hanover, MA showrooms.
Schedule a Showroom Appointment
5353
ShowroomsBoston296 Freeport St
Framingham215 Worcester Rd
Contact [email protected]
Social MediaFacebook.com/YaleApplianceLightingInstagram.com/yaleapplianceTwitter.com/MyYaleYouTube.com/yaleappliance
A p p l i a n c e s
Contact Us
Hanover548 Washington St
