What Are Ex Display Appliances?

Ex display appliances are products that retailers have previously used as showroom models to demonstrate features and functionality to potential customers. These items have never been used in a home setting but may have been powered on for demonstration purposes or handled by staff and customers.

Unlike refurbished or second-hand appliances, ex display models are technically new products that simply cannot be sold as brand-new due to their time spent on the shop floor. They typically have minimal wear, often limited to minor cosmetic imperfections like small scratches or marks that occur during their display period. The internal components remain unused, and most retailers thoroughly inspect and clean these appliances before offering them for sale.

How Ex Display Appliance Deals Work

When retailers update their showroom displays or when manufacturers release newer models, stores need to clear floor space by selling their display models. This creates an opportunity for savvy shoppers to purchase premium appliances at reduced prices. Discounts typically range from 20% to 50% off the original retail price, depending on the item's age, condition, and how desperately the retailer needs to clear inventory.

Most ex display appliances come with the manufacturer's warranty, though the warranty period might start from when the item was first displayed rather than your purchase date. Always check the specific warranty details before making a purchase. Some retailers also offer their own additional warranty coverage to provide extra peace of mind.

The purchasing process usually involves visiting physical stores as these deals are rarely advertised online. However, some specialized retailers have begun creating dedicated sections on their websites for ex display inventory, making these deals more accessible to online shoppers.

Provider Comparison: Where To Find Ex Display Appliance Deals

Several major retailers and specialized dealers offer ex display appliance deals, each with different approaches to pricing and warranty coverage:

  • Currys - Offers a dedicated clearance section both online and in-store with ex display models typically discounted 15-30%. Their ex display items come with a minimum 12-month warranty. Currys also provides delivery options for large appliances.
  • AO.com - Features an 'Appliance Outlet' section on their website with ex display and graded appliances. AO.com provides detailed condition descriptions and offers their standard delivery service for these items.
  • John Lewis - Offers ex display models primarily in-store with discounts ranging from 10-40%. John Lewis maintains their reputation for customer service with these products, often including their standard warranty.
  • Appliance City - Specializes in ex display and clearance appliances with some of the highest discounts (up to 50%). Appliance City provides detailed condition reports for each item.

Independent appliance retailers often offer the best deals on ex display models as they have more flexibility in pricing and may be more motivated to clear floor space quickly. Always compare offerings across multiple providers to ensure you're getting the best value.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Ex Display Appliances

Understanding the advantages and potential disadvantages of purchasing ex display appliances can help you make an informed decision:

Benefits:

  • Significant cost savings - Discounts of 20-50% on premium brands and models that might otherwise be out of budget
  • Nearly-new condition - Most ex display appliances have only minor cosmetic imperfections with unused internal components
  • Warranty coverage - Many come with manufacturer warranties, providing similar protection to buying new
  • Immediate availability - No waiting for delivery as most ex display models can be taken home the same day or delivered quickly
  • Environmental benefits - Purchasing ex display items reduces waste and the environmental impact of manufacturing new products

Drawbacks:

  • Cosmetic imperfections - May have minor scratches, dents, or marks from being handled in the showroom
  • Limited selection - You're restricted to whatever models happen to be on display and available for sale
  • Shorter warranty periods - The warranty may have started when the item was first displayed rather than at purchase
  • Missing accessories - Some items might not include all original accessories or documentation
  • No returns - Many retailers sell ex display items as-is with limited or no return options

For most buyers, the significant cost savings outweigh the minor drawbacks, especially when purchasing from reputable retailers who properly maintain their display models.

Pricing Overview and What To Expect

The pricing of ex display appliances varies widely depending on several factors, including the brand, original retail price, age of the display model, and its cosmetic condition. Premium brands like Miele, Bosch, and Samsung typically offer the most substantial savings in absolute terms.

Here's what you might expect to pay for common ex display appliances compared to their new counterparts:

  • Refrigerators/Freezers - 20-40% off retail, with higher-end models offering greater absolute savings
  • Washing Machines/Dryers - 15-35% off retail, with premium models from brands like Siemens offering the best value
  • Dishwashers - 20-45% off retail, particularly good deals on integrated models
  • Ovens/Ranges - 25-50% off retail, with significant savings on display cooking suites
  • Small Appliances - 10-30% off retail, though the absolute savings are less substantial

When negotiating for ex display appliances, remember that retailers are motivated to clear floor space. If you notice an item has been on display for a long time or has more noticeable wear, you may be able to negotiate an even better price. Additionally, asking about floor models when new product lines are being introduced (typically spring and fall) can lead to discovering unannounced deals as retailers make room for new inventory.

Conclusion

Ex display appliance deals represent an excellent opportunity to upgrade your home with premium appliances at significantly reduced prices. While these items may have minor cosmetic imperfections, they offer nearly-new functionality with the protection of warranty coverage. The key to success lies in shopping at reputable retailers, thoroughly inspecting items before purchase, and understanding the warranty terms.

For budget-conscious consumers who prioritize value over pristine appearance, ex display models strike an ideal balance between quality and affordability. By exploring options at retailers like Currys, AO.com, and independent appliance specialists, you can furnish your home with high-quality appliances that might otherwise be beyond your budget. The substantial savings, combined with the environmental benefit of preventing perfectly functional appliances from being discarded, make ex display purchases a smart choice for practical shoppers.

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This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.