Buying a second hand fridge couldn’t be easier once armed with the tips below.
Space
Before starting your search, it’s best to measure the dimensions of the space you have available. There should be one-inch clearance on the top and both sides, and two inches at the rear. This allows for proper ventilation and makes sure the doors can open properly.
Make
When it comes to fridges, a reputable brand name often equates to a higher-quality appliance. Certain fridge manufacturers produce more reliable products than others, so it’s a good idea to do some research and make a note of what kind of repairs and experiences customers have had with their fridge. The reviews sections on manufacturer websites is a good place to start.
History
Asking the seller plenty of questions about the appliance’s history is your best insurance against issues down the road. It’s important to ask why they’re selling it, whether they’ve had any problems with it and how old it is. If it’s more than 10 years old, it’s likely to not be as energy-efficient as newer models and will drive up the costs of electricity bills (offsetting any savings you may have made by purchasing second hand). All fridges will have an EU Energy Label, which indicates how efficient they are, based on how many units of energy they use per hour. The most energy-efficient fridges will have a rating of A+++, but this can go down to a G rating on the lowest end of the spectrum.
Condition
It’s worth checking the temperature of both the fridge and the freezer – they should be 3°C to 5°C and -18°C respectively to prevent food from spoiling. You should also ensure there aren’t any unwanted smells lingering in the fridge, as they can be difficult to get rid of. Lastly, it’s a good idea to check that the fridge door seals shut properly. The best way to do this is to close the fridge door on a piece of paper – it should be difficult to remove. An improperly closed fridge could mean issues with its contents staying cold and fresh.
If you’re thinking of getting an American Fridge Freezer, be sure to read our hand guide on what to look for.
Now that you’re fully clued up on what to look out for when buying a second hand fridge, why not take a look at our fridges for sale page on Gumtree?
