A man walks into a showroom. Two washing machines sit side by side. Same brand, same model, same finish. Each has a price label stuck on the front of the machine. One says $529. The other? $339. The man is puzzled. He inspects both machines closely, brow furrowed. A sales assistant comes over.
Can I help you sir?
The man asks,
Why is this washing machine nearly $200 cheaper than the other one?
The sales assistant checks his clipboard.
Well sir, this one has a scratch on it, so we’ve reduced the price.
He points to a tiny mark on the left hand side, no bigger than a fingernail. The man looks at the fleck in disbelief.
I’ll take it!
Later that day, the washing machine sits under the counter in the man’s kitchen, slotted between a dishwasher and cupboard, happily humming through its first ever wash cycle.
What is a Graded Appliance?
Buying a graded appliance is a great way to get a fantastic deal on a brand new product that would otherwise be too expensive. Graded appliances are new or unused appliances that cannot be sold at full price as brand new due to several reasons. This may include minor cosmetic damage, damaged packaging or the fact that it was an ex-floor display model. Often, damage is minimal and barely noticeable, or in places where it won’t be spotted. In many cases, only the packaging is damaged and there is no issue whatsoever with the actual appliance.
All graded appliances (also sometimes known as scratch and dent appliances) are fully tested and in full working order. There are different grades to look out for when buying graded.
Grade A:
Grade A appliances are in pristine condition. The packaging may be damaged or the appliance may in some cases have some superficial damage to the back or sides.
Grade B:
Grade B appliances may have some minor physical damage to either the front, sides or back of the appliance.
Grade C:
Grade C appliances have some physical damage or may show some signs of usage.
M Grade:
M Grade appliances come direct from the manufacturer, often straight from the factory. They will usually have received minor damage or have been factory reworked and recovered. These usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty up to 12 months.
Unlike used appliances, graded appliances come with a full warranty and are often eligible for extended warranties if desired. So you can rest securely knowing that your purchase is just as well protected as if you were buying new.
The Differences Between New and Graded Appliances
For both new and graded appliances, performance, overall appearance and life expectancy are identical. Like new appliances, graded appliances still have to meet strict standards before being sold. In reality, only a few minor differences set them apart.
Minor cosmetic damage
Graded appliances may have some minor cosmetic damage, usually in the form of small dents, scuffs or scratches. Many of these will be hidden at the back or sides of the appliance, or so minor they are practically invisible. For those that are more prominent, you can quickly and easily touch up marks with a kit from your local hardware store or a can of spray paint. Just be sure to check the color matches.
Damaged packaging
Sometimes, damage is only to the packaging of the appliance and not the appliance itself. The appliance may be sold in a damaged box or not in the original packaging. If this is the case, you’ve got yourself a real bargain. Who keeps the boxes anyway?
Ex-floor model
Ex-display appliances often have absolutely nothing wrong with them but as they have been on display, they cannot be sold as brand new. This is a great way to save on an appliance and grab a deal on a cheap washing machine or fridge freezer.
The Big Difference…is Price!
You could save hundreds by shopping for Cheap Kitchen Appliances, with some stores offering up to 60 percent off retail price for items that only have minor blemishes. That top of the range appliance you thought was out of reach may be a lot closer than you realize when you buy graded. Shop smart and bag yourself a great deal.
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