Thinking of getting a Fridge that’s new (to you)? Buying second-hand is a great way to save money as pre-owned fridges may sometimes cost less than half the price of new appliances. Keep these key considerations top of mind so you can navigate Gumtree’s fridge category with confidence and ease.
Space
Before starting your search, measure the dimensions of the fridge space that needs filling. There should be a one-inch space on the top and both sides.
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 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. Be sure 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 not 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, fridges will have a rating of A+++ at the very top end. This can go down to a G rating on the lowest end of the spectrum.
Condition
Check 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, make sure the fridge door seals shut properly. The best way to do this is to put a piece of paper in the fridge, and then close it. It should be difficult to remove. Otherwise, an improperly closed fridge could mean issues with its contents staying cold and fresh.
