Buying used appliances without surprises

Used appliances can be an excellent deal, especially when the owner is moving house or upgrading. But you must see them working, because a failed motor or compressor can cost close to the price of a new unit.

General rules for any appliance

• Ask to see it running in front of you, not "it was working yesterday".
• Ask about the purchase year, the receipt, any remaining warranty, and past repairs.
• Note the brand and model from the label on the back and compare prices for new and used units.
• Budget for delivery and installation, especially for air conditioners.

Fridges and freezers

• Switch it on and wait: the compressor should cycle on and off regularly without loud noise or clicking.
• Within about an hour the freezer should be noticeably cold.
• Check the door gasket. Tears reduce cooling and increase power use.
• For no-frost models, ask about ice build-up or water under the drawers.

Washing machines

• Run a short programme and check water intake, heating and spinning.
• During the spin, the machine should not shake violently or knock.
• Look at the drum and the door seal for rust or leaks.

Air conditioners

• Check the capacity (horsepower) and whether it suits the room size.
• Run it on cooling for ten minutes; the air should be clearly cold.
• Ask when it was last regassed and serviced, and get a trusted technician's price for removal and installation.
• Inverter units save electricity but can cost more to repair.

TVs and screens

• Show white, black and colour images and look for lines, spots or uneven backlight.
• Test every HDMI port, the remote, Wi-Fi and apps on smart TVs.
• Ask about the stand and the original remote.

Before paying

Agree the price after testing, and get a simple note with the model, price, and the seller's name and number. If a warranty is still valid, ask for the receipt so you can use it.