Is it important to have the same brand of kitchen appliances?

The general rule is that all major appliances should have the same finish. Fortunately, they don’t have to match in terms of brand, model or style. This is great for people who don’t want to buy a suite of appliances, and for those who want the option to replace appliances over time.

That’s what a national network of appliance repair technicians called Puls just did, with a new, in-house survey that ranked all of the major brands for things like reliability, value and ease of use. The top recommended brands overall: Whirlpool, Maytag and KitchenAid, in that order.

A Whirlpool refrigerator runs loud when the condenser fan motor fails. If there is too much dirt accumulated in and around the fan blades, it prevents the fan from working properly. The same is true with dirty condenser coils; if they are clogged, the condenser won’t work properly and your refrigerator will run loudly.

White Glove Delivery: The best of the best, our White Glove option means that the item will be delivered at your chosen appointment time, and then carriers will unpack, set up and inspect it to ensure it’s just what you expected. This delivery also includes removal of packaging.

How long does a refrigerator last? The typical life expectancy of a refrigerator is 10 to 15 years, and the average fridge with a freezer on the bottom or top can reliably run for about 13 years.

“It definitely pays to negotiate,” says Martin Lachter, a senior research associate in Consumer Reports’ survey department. “Most customers shopping for a major appliance don’t haggle over the price, but 73 percent of those who do are successful, saving a median of $97.”

One common question we often get asked when our customers are looking to buy new appliances is, “Do I have to get all the same brand? The answer is simple, No. It is completely up to the customer. But, sometimes it does make it an easier process to purchase all of the same brand of appliances.

Typical markup on appliances is 3-25%. Some items are below cost on the lower end to serve as loss leaders and draw in business.

Free extended second year of warranty: Costco’s two years of warranty coverage means you’re covered one year past the manufacturer’s warranty for televisions, projectors, computers, water heaters and major appliances (including refrigerators above 10 cubic feet, freezers, ranges, cooktops, over-the-range microwaves,

Based on national averages, for a typical, medium-sized space (120 sqft), a full, rip-and-replace kitchen remodel will range from $21,000 to $84,000 and up, depending on finishes. This estimate includes all materials, labor, overhead, and a standard general contractor margin.

Stainless steel appliances present a great look with almost any color of cabinets. While white appliances can only combine with white cabinets, white cabinets can still blend with stainless steel. This rule also holds true for medium and dark colors as well.

Within the 90-day return window, TVs can be returned in any condition. Even if your item is damaged, Costco will accept returns on any electronic item within 90 days.

Yes, most refrigerator doors can be removed for delivery, although some may be more sensitive due to wiring. This is common for refrigerators with a built-in water dispenser or ice maker.

You don’t pay attention to the price tags If you buy food at Costco, you generally save because the chain doesn’t mark up products as much as typical grocery stores, Demer says. “Costco prices average 10% less than the local big-box retailer,” she adds. But that doesn’t mean everything is a good value.

Do you tip Costco delivery drivers? Yes, you can. Most customers tip the drivers between 5% to 10% which costs between $2 to $4. Tipping your Costco driver is not compulsory, however, tipping motivates the driver to keep on delivering since it’s an appreciation for their service.