What to Look for When Buying a Second-Hand Appliance

Buying second-hand appliances can save money, but it also carries real risks. A fridge that’s technically working can fail within weeks. A washing machine with a cracked drum bearing sounds fine but destroys clothes and costs hundreds to fix. This guide explains what to check before handing over cash — and when it’s better to buy new.

General Rules for Any Used Appliance

Always Test It Running

Never buy a second-hand appliance you haven’t tested in full operation. Run a full wash cycle. Listen to the fridge compressor cycle. Test every oven function. A seller who won’t let you test is hiding something.

Ask About Age and Service History

Appliances typically have a 10–15 year lifespan. A 9-year-old washing machine at half-price is rarely a bargain — you’re buying the final years of its useful life and inheriting all repair risk. Aim for appliances under 5 years old.

Check for Visible Damage

Scratches and dents are cosmetic. Rust on the cabinet or drum, cracks in plastic components and dents near seals are structural issues. Walk away from anything with rust on a washing machine drum or inside a fridge cabinet.

Refrigerator-Specific Checks

• Listen for the compressor: it should start, run smoothly and stop. Rattling, grinding or constant running are red flags.
• Check all door seals: a loose or torn seal forces the compressor to work harder and significantly increases running costs.
• Test the thermostat: check temperatures in both fridge and freezer compartments with a thermometer.
• Check for ice build-up in a frost-free model: this indicates a faulty defrost heater or thermostat.

Washing Machine-Specific Checks

• Run a full cycle and listen for bearing noise: a grinding, rumbling or loud drumming noise during spin is a sign of imminent bearing failure (a very expensive repair).
• Check door seals on front-loaders for mould, cracks or tears.
• Test all temperature settings and spin speeds.
• Look inside the drum for rust staining or surface damage.

Dishwasher-Specific Checks

• Run a full cycle and check for leaks during and after.
• Inspect spray arms for clogs or cracks.
• Check the door seal for splits or mould.
• Test all wash programs and drying function.

Oven and Cooktop-Specific Checks

• Test every burner and element.
• Check oven temperature accuracy (use an oven thermometer).
• Test the grill function separately — elements often fail first here.
• Check the oven door seal for tears.

When Is New Better Than Used?

New almost always wins when:

• The used appliance is more than 5 years old
• The price difference between new and used is less than $300
• You can’t properly test the used appliance
• The brand is obscure or parts are hard to find
• You’re buying a fridge or washer for a family — reliability is non-negotiable

New Ex-Display and Graded Stock

An excellent middle ground: ex-display appliances from reputable dealers like Oceania Appliances. These are brand-new units that were on showroom display, sold at a discount with full manufacturer warranty. You get the savings of used without the risk.

Ask us about current ex-display stock at our Wetherill Park showroom. Open 7 days, 10am–8pm.

Call: (02) 9999 9999 | support@oceaniaappliances.com.au