Appliance shopping can be manageable if you spread the costs over a long period.
One or two big-budget items per year is feasible for most homeowners. But put it off too long, and you might suddenly be left needing to replace three, even four, essential appliances all at the same time. Where do you go from there?
Buying pre-loved, refurbished appliances is the only way! Rehome is all about helping homeowners break down budget barriers. With big deals on even bigger brands like Miele, Quooker, and Siemens, we’ve made it our mission to help you live in possible.
Learn more about where to buy second hand appliances and what to look for with Rehome.
Checklist for buying second-hand
Buying second-hand requires shoppers to be more diligent with their purchases. Websites like Gumtree, for example, generally don’t offer refunds or a ‘buyer protection scheme’ where you can receive monetary compensation for a faulty appliance.
As a third-party seller, Rehome acts as an agent for other sellers and can facilitate the refund process under certain circumstances (e.g., if the product was misrepresented or a cancellation by the seller). (You can learn more about our processes in the terms and conditions section of our site).
When it comes to buying second-hand, doing your homework will hold you in good stead. Here are some of our top questions you need to know the answers to:
Will you get a guarantee?
Hopefully, nothing goes wrong in the first couple of months. But if it does, having even a short guarantee period can save you money. For example, with Rehome, any manufacturer’s guarantee that is still applicable to a Product will be indicated in the Product Listing. Where available, the remainder term of the guarantee will be transferred to the Customer at the same time as ownership of the Product is transferred.
Has it been safety tested?
You should make sure that any second-hand appliance, where relevant, has received a Portable Appliance Test (PAT) or a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT). Large items, like fridge-freezers, may still be defined as ‘portable’ if they can be plugged into a socket.
For ex-display appliances sold via Rehome, we request the Trade Seller confirms if the appliance has been PAT (Portable Appliances Tested) or FAT (Fixed Appliance Tested), as applicable. This will be confirmed in the `Important Information` section in the sales listing. For pre-owned appliances, we request that the Seller confirm that the appliances being sold are in good working order and any defects are noted. See the ‘Condition’ section in the sales listing. We confirm that Rehome does not test any appliances.
Has it been recalled?
Some second-hand appliances may have been recalled due to safety defects. To check if the product you have in mind is still in circulation, go to Electrical Safety First. So, as a planet-friendly consumer, where should you look to buy second-hand appliances? Below, we’ve listed our top five picks, and at number one…
1. Rehome
As the UK’s number one Kitchen, Bedroom, Bathroom outlet, we want to change how people renovate. All too often, perfectly good appliances are relegated to landfill when, really, all they needed was a little TLC.
That’s why we act as an agent to sell goods on behalf of third-party sellers. Using our online platform, Rehome facilitates sales to buyers by allowing sellers to market their products via listings. For example, homeowners searching for approved-used Siemens ovens will find countless second-hand products. From ex-display wine coolers to Miele fridge freezers, we make pre-loved products accessible and affordable.
2. Facebook Marketplace
Accessible via the Facebook app or website, Facebook Marketplace allows users to buy and sell items within their local communities. Individuals can list appliances for sale, complete with descriptions, photos, and prices. Communication between buyers and sellers is facilitated through Facebook's messaging system.
While it’s a relatively straightforward way to search for second-hand appliances, it's important to point out that transactions on Facebook Marketplace (especially those between private individuals) typically don’t include assurances like warranties or guarantees.
The Consumer Rights Act (2015) specifies that goods purchased from individual sellers must match their descriptions, but they aren't required to meet the same standards as those sold by businesses. As such, buyers should exercise caution and thoroughly inspect items before finalising a purchase.
3. Gumtree
Gumtree is a well-known online classifieds platform in the UK. It facilitates the buying and selling of a wide range of items (including second-hand appliances). Gumtree provides a space for individuals to list their pre-owned products via detailed advertisements, descriptions, images, and pricing information. As with any platform, there are positives and negatives for buyers.
While you may be able to find a wide range of appliances at lower-than-average prices, the lack of formal buyer protection means that if an appliance is faulty or not as described, recourse options are limited. Plus, the absence of warranties means buyers must rely on their own assessment of the item's condition.
4. eBay
eBay is a global online marketplace that connects millions of buyers and sellers worldwide. Through auction-style listings or fixed-price formats, you can shop for a range of products, including second-hand appliances.
eBay does provide a Money-Back Guarantee that covers most transactions. The policy makes sure that buyers can receive a refund if an item doesn't arrive, is faulty or damaged, or doesn't match the listing description. But buyers should remember that this isn’t a product warranty. It mainly offers protection against issues arising from the transaction itself. Some sellers, particularly those offering refurbished items, may even provide their own warranties.
For example, eBay's Refurbished Program includes a one-year warranty with every refurbished product.
5. Charity shops
There are tens of thousands of charity shops on the British high-street. Established shops like the British Heart Foundation, British Red Cross, and even The Salvation Army may offer second-hand appliances at reduced prices. Purchasing from these sellers can be a great way to give back to a charitable cause. However, the availability of specific appliances can be unpredictable, as stock depends on donations.
Shop for second-hand appliances with Rehome!
As the UK’s number one Kitchen, Bedroom, Bathroom outlet, we are your go-to provider for luxury, second-hand kitchen appliances.
Rehome offers appliances from industry-leading brands like Gaggenau, Quooker, and NEFF for thousands of pounds less than high-street prices. With us, you get top-quality for an affordable price. Step one step closer to your goals, and live in possible with Rehome.
