With washers and dryers running $700 each and refrigerators costing upward of $2,000 in many cases, new appliances are a big investment.

But if you need or want one — or a full set — sooner than later, there are ways to save money while still getting what you want. Here are tips and tricks for finding the best deals on appliances, without sacrificing on quality.

Repair before you buy

Before you drop big bucks on a new model, see if yours can be fixed. “If you are happy with your appliance and its features, it’s worth finding out what is wrong,” says Kevin Brasler, executive editor with Consumers’ Checkbook, a nonprofit consumer advocacy group. “Many repairs are straightforward and most average about $100.” You don’t need to start shopping unless the repair is more than 50% of the replacement cost, the appliance is nearing the end of its expected life span (typically 10 to 14 years) or it is unrepairable.

Do your research

Sites such as Consumer Reports evaluate appliances for reliability and features. If you’re unable to locate the recommended model in a store, consider substituting a similar model within the same brand, says Tobie Stanger, a senior editor at Consumer Reports.

Even if you don’t buy from a big-box store, it’s worth a visit to compare the look, finish, features and feel of various models. If you’re in the market for a dishwasher, for example, Stanger suggests bringing your largest dish to see if it fits.

Try adjusting refrigerator shelves, or test whether you can easily reach in to load and unload a washing machine. Note the make and model number of your top choices, then shop around for the best price.

Don’t buy more than you need

“Not everyone needs bigger or an upgrade,” says Erica Finamore, home director of Real Simple. “Bells and whistles are fun but add to the cost.” Create a list of must-have features. You can save money by skipping that camera that will display the refrigerator’s contents on your phone and going with a functional top-freezer fridge with a basic icemaker instead. And unless you do a lot of laundry every day, you probably don’t need an industrial-size machine.

On the other hand, if you host huge family gatherings, a three-rack, adjustable dishwasher may be worth the investment.

Compare prices

Here’s a little secret: Appliance manufacturers set the minimum advertised price for all retailers. That means prices don’t fluctuate much from seller to seller.

Big-box stores don’t offer better discounts or prices than independent retailers, which tend to get higher marks for selling, service and delivery, says Brasler.

With the make and model number in hand, call or email several stores for

a quote.

Ask for the best price for that model, including delivery, extra hoses or hookup kits, and installation.

And don’t be afraid to haggle. “Only 22% of people do, but those who try were successful a lot of the time and saved $140 on average at big-box stores and $123 at independent stores,” Stanger says.

Shop around

Independent dealers can often match or beat the price of a home improvement store.

They may also give you a better deal if you buy multiple appliances at once. Stanger says independent retailers are often more exact in predicting when you’ll get your appliance. If the one you want isn’t in stock, you can usually sign up to receive a digital alert when it arrives.

Independent retailers also may be more generous in their customer service. “If you are desperate because an appliance has broken, some may even give you a loaner in the interim,” she says.

Appliance outlets — which often sell floor models, overstock and open-box (returned) items — may yield a good deal. Stanger says you can save up to 75%, but you may have to pay for delivery and/or installation. Still, a “scratch-and-dent” appliance may be a great option, particularly if the flaw won’t be visible. If you buy a floor model or open-box item, though, confirm the markdown is for cosmetic or size reasons and not a mechanical problem, Finamore says. Also, buy only from reputable stores that offer a warranty and ask about the store’s return policy.

There is no ‘best’ time to buy

Conventional wisdom is that you can save money during big sales on Labor Day, the Fourth of July or Black Friday. “Nonsense!” says Brasler. “Retailers are discounting off the MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price), but they never really sell the appliance at that price. Stores want you to think a holiday sale is temporary, but it’s not. Likely that discounted price is always available.”

And unlike cars, toys or running shoes, appliances don’t change dramatically from year to year, so retailers rarely offload models to make way for new ones. That means there is no best month to buy, so don’t be seduced by so-called “clear-out” sales.

Cosmetics can cost (or save) you

Stores typically display appliances in the most popular finishes.

Right now, those are soft matte black and black stainless, says Finamore. But who’s to say what will be popular in 10 years? If you’re willing to compromise on the finish and go with, say, glossy black or white, you may be able to save, she says.

Skip the extended warranty

Most manufacturers provide a good product warranty. But experts agree that extended warranties have so many exclusions they are practically worthless. “They are highly profitable for the store but bad for the customer,” Brasler says.

And check with your credit card company. Some cards extend a manufacturer’s warranty by one or two years, as long as you bought the appliance with that credit card.