1. Measure the space — and the route into it
Record width, height and depth, but also doorways, stair turns, lift dimensions, worktop clearance, ventilation space and door swing. For integrated appliances, check the cabinet and hinge system rather than assuming all “standard” widths fit the same way.
2. Choose capacity from your household, not the biggest number
Oversizing can waste space and energy; undersizing can mean more frequent cycles. For washing machines, dishwashers, fridges and freezers, compare capacity in the unit that matters for the category and think about how you actually load it.
3. Read the energy label beyond the letter
Many household appliances use the rescaled A–G energy label. The class is useful, but compare the underlying energy-consumption figure too, especially across different sizes. Two products with the same class can still use different amounts of energy because their capacities differ.
4. Add every unavoidable cost before calling something a deal
Delivery, installation, required connection kits and mandatory charges can change the ranking. Optional extras such as old-appliance removal should be shown separately. UK price-transparency rules require unavoidable charges to be included in the total price when applicable; FINDGOBUY is being built to distinguish known total cost from a bare item price.
5. Noise matters in open-plan homes
For dishwashers, washing machines, tumble dryers and refrigeration, compare the stated noise information if the appliance will run near living or sleeping space. A small specification difference can matter more in a quiet flat than in a utility room.
6. Look at the whole ownership experience
Warranty length, spare-parts availability, repair access, filter/consumable prices and service network all contribute to value. Smart features are useful only if they solve a real problem; they are not a substitute for core performance and reliability.
7. Delivery and installation deserve their own comparison
Check whether delivery is doorstep-only or room-of-choice, whether packaging is removed, whether installation is included, and what preparation you must complete first. For gas or other regulated work, use appropriately qualified installers.
FINDGOBUY appliance checklist
- Product dimensions and installation clearances measured.
- Delivery route checked.
- Capacity matches real household use.
- Energy class and underlying consumption compared.
- Noise considered for the room.
- Delivery, installation and unavoidable charges included in comparison.
- Removal/recycling cost shown separately if optional.
- Warranty and after-sales support checked.