Buying A Second Hand Dishwasher

A Few Do's, Don'ts Before You Buy

Buying a machine for your washing up isn't rocket science, as you probably know. But it doesn't help to keep a few considerations in mind before you spend your money.

Do's

1. Make sure you see the dishwasher working, or at least powering up before you buy

This may not always be possible, the seller may have already disconnected all of the pipes from the washer and may not be storing it near a powersocket. If a seller wants your money, he or she should at least try to move the machine (with a little help) near to a plug socket so that they can at least show that it powers up.

2. Get a receipt and guarantee that you can return the appliance to the seller if it doesn't work properly

It is your right to request a receipt and to even footnote the receipt with a return statement.Very handy, especially if for some reason the seller can't show it working. If the seller refuses to do this, walk away. If a seller states no returns, again, walk away.

3. Why is the seller selling the machine?

It's not a rude question to ask, and the answer will help you ascertain whether the dishwasher is working or not. Maybe the seller has just bought a larger or more up to date dishwasher, making the one he/she is selling surplus to requirement. Maybe the seller found it in a skip (unlikely). If the seller is moving away, say that same day, and won't give you their new address, walk away.

Don'ts

1. Don't buy a badly wired machine

Check the wiring of the dishwasher. If it looks like somebody has been at it with a axe and bluetak (or insulation tape), don't buy it. It may well not work at all, and even worse; you may be injured using it, it is an electrical appliance that handles water after all. While it may be expensive, it may be worth asking an electrician to view the machine with you before you buy.

2. Don't pay before delivery, if the seller is able to deliver.

I'm sure you have enough common sense to figure that one out already, but some people do get caught out. If a seller can deliver to your house, don't pay until it actually arrives at your house, especially if you haven't seen the machine first.

3. Don't buy from a man with a van who can deliver in 10 minutes

Further to number 2 above, we've all seen those ads on certain classified ad sites where the seller tells you he/she can deliver a dishwasher to you right away, without you having to go and see it. You don't know where the seller lives in case you have to return the machine, not worth the risk.

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