Kitchen Appliance Buying Guide
When it comes to renovating or upgrading your kitchen, selecting appliances is one of the most exciting—and potentially overwhelming—parts of the process. With so many options available, it’s easy to get sidetracked or go over budget. That’s why we’ve compiled a smart, practical kitchen appliance buying guide to help keep you focused, organized, and confident in your decisions.
1. Start with Your Layout and Measurements
Before you even set foot in a showroom or start browsing online, have your kitchen layout and precise measurements ready. Knowing the exact space you’re working with is crucial—it saves time and prevents costly mistakes. Bring your layout plan with you while shopping to make sure each appliance you consider is a good fit for your current or intended kitchen design.
Pro Tip: If you’re not planning to replace your cabinetry, make sure new appliances fit within your existing configuration. This will narrow down your choices and keep you from falling in love with something that simply won’t work.
2. Stick to a Consistent Aesthetic
A well-designed kitchen isn’t just functional—it looks great too. Make sure the finish and style of your appliances complement one another and match the overall look of your space. Whether your vibe is modern, farmhouse, or minimalist, consistency in appliance design brings cohesion and elegance to your kitchen.
Consider: Stainless steel for a sleek, modern look, or matte finishes for something a bit more contemporary and unique. And don’t forget to match handles and controls wherever possible!
The look of your appliances may also be the “jumping off” point of your kitchen design aesthetic, determining the style direction you take. Creating a kitchen design mood board is one of the smartest ways to clarify your style, stay organized, and make confident decisions throughout the process. Read more about mood boards on my blog post, “Mood Magic: Unveiling the Power of your Mood Board.”
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3. Define Your Budget Early
Know your spending limit before you head out to appliance showrooms. This gives your appliance specialist a clear starting point and helps narrow down suitable models and brands. Defining your investment amount upfront ensures you don’t get blindsided by price tags later.
Bonus Tip: Be sure to factor in not only the appliance costs, but also delivery, installation, and any potential hookups (like water lines or gas fittings).
4. Plan for Installation
This step is often overlooked but incredibly important. Most retailers do not include installation services with your purchase. This means you may need to coordinate with professionals like gasfitters, plumbers, or electricians to get your appliances safely and correctly installed.
Good to Know: Retailers usually have a list of recommended service providers—don’t hesitate to ask!
Your general contractor will also be able to assist you with appliance installation. They are either qualified to handle it themselves or they have a sub-trade they work with to ensure the appliances are installed to the manufacturer’s specifications.
5. Keep Lead Times in Mind
Not all appliances are ready to take home the same day. While many retailers offer in-stock and quick delivery options, custom or high-end models may have significantly longer lead times. Plan your purchase timeline accordingly, especially if you’re coordinating with a renovation schedule.
Rule of Thumb: The more customized or high-tech the appliance, the longer the wait. Always ask about availability before making a final decision. These delivery dates will also need to be considered when putting together your construction schedule.
Pine Street Carpenters & The Kitchen Studio
6. Align Your Appliances with Your Renovation Goals
How high-end do you want to go? The amount you spend on your appliance package should reflect your overall investment in your renovation or remodel. If you’re doing a full kitchen overhaul with premium finishes, your appliance choices should support that level of quality.
A quick and easy way to determine if your kitchen renovation goals stay in line (specifically your budget) is to multiply the amount of your appliance package quote by six. This will give you a thumbnail of the quality and price you should anticipate.
Final Thoughts
Shopping for kitchen appliances doesn’t have to be stressful. By helping develop a clear understanding of your space, a defined budget, and a focus on functionality, this kitchen appliance buying guide can help you make confident, informed choices—turning your kitchen vision into reality without the guesswork. Happy shopping!
Here’s a checklist, perfect for keeping you organized and on track:
