Buying used appliances can feel a little like treasure hunting. One minute you’re casually browsing, and the next you’ve found a washer for $150 that still has years of life left in it.
But not every appliance is a hidden gem. Some are dependable workhorses. Others are one strange noise away from becoming a very expensive mistake.
If you want to save money without the regret, it helps to know which appliances are actually worth buying used and what you should expect to pay.
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Why Buying Used Appliances Can Save You So Much
New appliances aren’t cheap. A basic washer and dryer set can easily run over $1,000, and that’s before delivery and installation.
Buying used can cut that cost dramatically. The key is sticking with appliances that are simple, reliable, and easier to repair. When you choose wisely, you’re not just saving money upfront, you’re avoiding costly repairs later.
The Best Used Appliances To Buy
Some appliances are built to last and tend to hold up well over time. These are your safest bets.
Washers
When you’re checking one out, focus on a few key things:
- It spins and drains properly
- No loud banging or grinding noises
- No visible leaks or heavy rust
Most used washers sell between $100 and $300. If you find one under $150 in good condition, that’s a solid win.
Dryers
You really just want to make sure:
- It heats up properly
- The drum spins smoothly
- There’s no burning smell
Most used dryers fall between $100 and $250, with great deals often under $150.
Stoves (Especially Gas)
Before buying, check:
- Burners ignite quickly and evenly
- Oven heats properly
- No smell of gas
You’ll typically pay between $150 and $400, though it’s not uncommon to find good options closer to $200.
Freezers
Freezers, especially chest freezers, are one of the most underrated used appliance buys. They’re simple, reliable, and often last for years.
When checking one out, make sure:
- It gets cold fairly quickly
- The door seal is tight
- There’s no excessive frost buildup
Most used freezers range from $100 to $300, with strong deals under $150 if you’re patient.
Appliances You Should Be More Careful With
Not every appliance is worth the risk. Some come with more complexity, higher repair costs, or shorter lifespans.
You’ll want to be more cautious with:
- Refrigerators, which have more complex systems and can be expensive to fix
- Dishwashers, which are prone to leaks and pump issues
- High-end smart appliances, where repairs can be costly and parts harder to find
These aren’t automatic “no’s,” but they do require a closer look and a lower price to make sense.
How Much Should You Pay?
Pricing depends on age, condition, and brand, but most used appliances fall into predictable ranges:
- Washers: $100–$300
- Dryers: $100–$250
- Stoves: $150–$400
- Freezers: $100–$300
If you’re getting 50–75% off the cost of buying new, you’re in the sweet spot.
Where To Find the Best Deals on Used Appliances
Finding a good used appliance isn’t just about luck—it’s about knowing where to look. The best deals usually go to people who check often, act fast, and aren’t afraid to ask a few questions.
Here are some of the most reliable places to score a deal:
- Facebook Marketplace – One of the best spots for local deals. Many people sell appliances quickly when moving, which means lower prices if you’re ready to pick up fast.
- Local appliance repair shops – These are hidden gems. Many shops refurbish washers, dryers, and stoves and may even offer short warranties.
- Scratch-and-dent stores – These appliances are technically “new” but discounted due to cosmetic damage, often giving you the best of both worlds.
- Liquidation sales and pallets – This is where you can find the deepest discounts, especially if you’re willing to take a small risk or buy in bulk. Perfect for resellers or anyone comfortable with minor repairs.
- Garage sales and estate sales – These can be hit or miss, but when you find one, the prices are often hard to beat.
- Local classifieds (Craigslist, community boards) – Still worth checking, especially in smaller towns where competition is lower.
If you’re patient and check these sources regularly, you’ll start to notice patterns, and that’s when the real deals show up.
The best opportunities often come from motivated sellers who just want something gone. When that happens, being ready to pick up quickly can be the difference between paying $300… or $100.
Final Thoughts
Buying used appliances is one of the easiest ways to save money, but only if you choose wisely.
Stick with simple, durable machines like washers, dryers, and gas stoves, and you can score great deals without the stress. Because the goal isn’t just saving money upfront… it’s avoiding that moment a week later when your “great deal” starts making a noise that sounds like a repair bill.
