1. Clearly define your needs and budget

When shopping for appliances online, you'll be overwhelmed by choice and information. It is important to clearly define your needs and budget when researching online and slowly narrow down your options. Read up on the appliance features, check for size and quality, compare different brands and pricing and at the end of the day ensure that it suits both your needs and budget.

2. Ensure you know the model number

This may seem like an obvious one, but it's easy to get carried away in the heat of the moment and make a mistake. The model number is usually labeled on the appliance. Knowing this information means that you can verify your purchase with the retailer if necessary. This is a good idea, as it will ensure that you're buying exactly what you want.

3. Check the retailer's terms and conditions

The retailer's terms and conditions are a good place to find out who is responsible for shipping costs and what the returns and exchange policy is. It's common for the retailer to offer free shipping, so double-check the shipping terms and verify that they will cover any additional fees you may incur. Sometimes extra fees can be added if you don't pick up your purchase on time or if you change your mind about your order. Make sure to check for additional shipping, handling and tax costs (if applicable) well in advance of your purchase, in order to avoid surprises.

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4. Consider paying extra for a warranty

One of the biggest risks you take when you buy an appliance online is that of a malfunction. It's not uncommon for products to misbehave within the first few months of use, and it's good to have some kind of coverage in place for situations like this. However, it's important to remember that warranties are offered by manufacturers, so you'll usually need to purchase them separately. For the best coverage, always review warranty options and check that your warranty will be accepted by all relevant parties before making your purchase.

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5. Check Reviews

Finally, make sure that you have read or researched product reviews. You can often learn more about the appliance by reading reviews than you would by simply looking at its specifications. Reading reviews will also help you to narrow down your options before making your purchase. By the time you've finished reading a few reviews, it's likely that you'll have decided which model to buy and where to buy it from.