Appliance Checklist for New Homes: Everything You Need Before Moving In
Moving into a new home is exciting — but it can also be overwhelming. Making sure you have the right appliances set up before moving day saves significant stress. This comprehensive checklist covers every appliance you might need, with guidance on what to prioritise first.
Must-Have Appliances (Priority 1 — Before Moving In)
Refrigerator
A fridge is non-negotiable. Without one, you can't store fresh food, beverages or medications that need refrigeration. If your new home doesn't come with a fridge (most don't), this should be your first appliance purchase. Allow 24 hours for a new fridge to reach operating temperature before loading it with perishables.
Washing Machine
Unless you're within easy walking distance of a laundromat, a washing machine is essential within the first week. Front-loaders are more efficient; top-loaders are faster and simpler. For a new home with a laundry already plumbed, this is a straightforward installation.
Oven and Cooktop
Many new builds come with an oven and cooktop already installed. If yours doesn't, this needs to be sorted quickly. Freestanding ranges (oven and cooktop in one unit) are the simplest and fastest solution. If you're doing a full kitchen fitout, a built-in oven with a separate induction cooktop above is the more modern and ergonomic approach.
High-Priority Appliances (Priority 2 — First Two Weeks)
Air Conditioner
If you're moving in during summer, or into a Western Sydney home where summers are extreme, an air conditioner may be a Priority 1 item. A single reverse-cycle split system in the main living area makes an enormous difference to comfort. Installation by a licensed electrician is required.
Dryer
A dryer becomes a priority in winter, in homes without outdoor drying space, or in busy households that can't wait for air-drying. Heat pump dryers are the most energy-efficient; vented models are the cheapest to buy but require an external exhaust vent.
Dishwasher
A dishwasher saves significant time and water over hand-washing. If your new kitchen has a dishwasher space (a standard in new builds since the 1990s), filling it should be on your list in the first few weeks. Freestanding dishwashers sit in a standard 60cm gap.
Secondary Appliances (Priority 3 — First Month)
- Microwave — essential for reheating and time-saving cooking. Many rangehoods now come with built-in microwaves above the cooktop
- Chest freezer — if you have space in a garage or utility room, a chest freezer dramatically increases your food storage capacity and is excellent for bulk buying
- Coffee machine — a morning ritual for many households. Pod machines are convenient; manual espresso machines give better quality
- Vacuum cleaner — needed from day one to manage dust from moving in
Appliances New Builds Often Include
Many new construction homes include some appliances as part of the build, particularly:
- Oven (usually a 60cm built-in electric oven)
- Cooktop (gas, electric or induction)
- Rangehood
- Dishwasher
Check your build contract or ask your builder exactly what's included before budgeting for appliances.
Budgeting for a Full Appliance Package
Equipping a 3-4 bedroom home with quality appliances from scratch typically costs:
- Fridge (bottom-mount, 400L): $900–$1,500
- Washing machine (front-load, 9kg): $900–$1,500
- Dryer (heat pump, 8kg): $800–$1,400
- Dishwasher (freestanding, 60cm): $900–$1,500
- Air conditioner (split system, 7kW): $1,500–$2,500 installed
Buying ex-display or graded stock from Oceania Appliances can reduce this by 30–50% across the board, with no compromise on brand or quality. Call us to discuss a package deal for a new home.
Get Your New Home Appliance Package from Oceania Appliances
We regularly help Sydney families equip new homes with a full appliance package delivered in a single trip. Free delivery, 3–6 month warranty on all stock, same-day available on many items. Call us or visit our Wetherill Park showroom at 2/14 Centre Place.