Kitchen appliances: how to choose and buy without overpaying
The kitchen first, then the appliance
Kitchen appliances are chosen as much by size as by features. Measure the niches, the worktop height and the width of the passage, and check which way the fridge or dishwasher door will open. Built-in appliances have standard sizes, but real niches often differ by a few centimetres.
Also think about electricity and gas: whether the oven needs a separate line, whether you have the right socket, whether the hob is gas. This decides which models will fit at all.
Large kitchen appliances
- Cooling. Fridges and freezers: capacity, frost-free system, energy rating, noise level, reversible doors.
- Cooking. Cookers and ovens, built-in ovens and hobs: gas, electric or induction, width 45, 60 or 90 cm, modes, type of control.
- Washing and air. Dishwashers (place settings, built-in or freestanding) and chimneys and hoods (suction capacity, ducting or recirculation).
There are many more everyday appliances: microwaves, electric kettles, coffee makers and grinders, food processors, steamers, rice cookers and bread makers. For these, give the power, capacity, body material, brand and set of attachments. For coffee makers, the type matters: capsule, filter or fully automatic.
How it works on BlaBlaPrice
Instead of visiting shops, you write one request: which appliance, the niche size, new or used, your city, and whether you need delivery and installation. You can add one photo of the kitchen. The request is checked, and you get hints about what details sellers are missing.
Sellers reply in the chat with models, prices and terms. BlaBlaPrice shows the best offer by value first, and reviews help you choose. Sellers see their place among the others, so they often improve their terms. Details are on the “How it works” page.
How to compare offers
The same price can hide differences in delivery, carrying upstairs and installation. Agree what is included: unpacking, fitting, taking away the old appliance. For built-in appliances, check whether fixing brackets and installation templates are provided.
For a used fridge, ask about the state of the compressor, any odd smells and the reason for selling. For a new one, ask about the warranty and service centres in your city.
Common mistakes
Ignoring ventilation gaps, which makes the appliance overheat. Taking a hood with too little suction for a big kitchen. Choosing an induction hob without checking your electrical supply and whether your cookware works on induction. Buying a cheap kettle or coffee maker without finding out whether spare parts are available.
Price, care and choosing between similar offers
The price of a fridge or cooker depends on capacity, energy rating, brand and features. Over a few years, electricity savings can partly make up for a higher price, so it is worth comparing energy ratings. For a dishwasher, consider water use and whether there are half-load programmes.
Think about upkeep too: hood filters, salt and rinse aid for a dishwasher, descaling a coffee maker. Ask the seller about service centres and spare parts in your city.
Older models are often sold off when new ranges come out. If your kitchen renovation is still ahead, choose the appliances early and agree the sizes with the person making the cabinets.
If two sellers offer a similar model, choose the one who writes clearly about delivery, carrying up and warranty. It will save you trouble after the purchase.
