When Do Microwaves Go on Sale?

Timing the purchase of a new microwave can lead to notable savings. Understanding typical sales cycles and other opportunities helps consumers acquire a suitable model without paying full price. This guide explores various periods and strategies to secure a better deal.

Key Sales Events Throughout the Year

Major retail holidays consistently offer significant discounts on a wide range of appliances, including microwaves. One of the most anticipated sales events is Black Friday, and its online counterpart, Cyber Monday. Retailers often begin these sales as early as November and extend them into early December, presenting substantial savings to clear inventory before the year ends. Consumers can expect deep discounts during this period, with some sales reaching up to 60% off original prices.

Throughout the year, other national holidays also serve as prime opportunities for appliance sales. Memorial Day, observed in late May, marks the unofficial start of summer and often features competitive promotions from major retailers. Similarly, the Fourth of July in early July brings “Red, White & Blue Savings Events,” where microwaves and other small kitchen appliances are frequently discounted. These sales often extend for several days around the holiday itself.

Labor Day, celebrated in early September, provides another chance to find deals as stores clear out summer inventory to prepare for the fall and holiday seasons. Additionally, major online retailers, such as Amazon, host their own large-scale sales events like Prime Day, typically in July, and sometimes a second event in October. These events offer exclusive discounts for members, often including significant price reductions on microwaves and other kitchen appliances.

Product Cycles and Clearance Sales

Beyond specific holidays, the timing of new model releases by manufacturers significantly influences when older microwave models become available at reduced prices. Appliance manufacturers frequently introduce their latest microwave designs in the spring or fall. When these new models arrive, retailers need to make space, leading to discounts on the previous year’s models. This inventory turnover creates opportunities for consumers to purchase perfectly functional microwaves at a lower cost.

Retailers also conduct general clearance sales not tied to a particular holiday, which are designed to move slow-moving, overstocked, or discontinued merchandise. These events help stores manage their inventory levels and make room for fresh product assortments. Such clearance opportunities can arise at various times throughout the year, especially at the end of each season or quarter. Discounts during these clearance events can range from 10% to 70% off.

These clearance sales are distinct from regular promotional sales because the items are typically marked down permanently. While major appliances like refrigerators and washers often see new models in specific months, smaller appliances like microwaves frequently appear in year-end clearance events. This means that outside of holiday sales, paying attention to general inventory clearances can also yield substantial savings.

Smart Shopping for Microwaves

For those seeking to maximize savings, several strategies can be employed regardless of specific sale dates or product cycles. Exploring “open-box” items or “scratch and dent” sections at appliance stores can provide considerable discounts. Open-box appliances are typically returned items that are in excellent condition, often sold at a reduced price because the packaging has been opened or it was a floor model. These items can offer savings of 10% to 30% off the original price, and sometimes more, while still maintaining quality and functionality.

Utilizing price comparison websites and applications can help identify the best deals across multiple retailers, ensuring that a competitive price is secured. Signing up for retailer newsletters can also grant access to exclusive discounts and early notifications of upcoming sales, allowing for proactive shopping. Additionally, inquiring about price matching policies at various stores can ensure that if a lower price is found elsewhere, the preferred retailer will match it.

Considering refurbished microwaves from reputable sellers presents another avenue for savings. Refurbished units have been previously used but have been inspected, cleaned, and restored to working order. While they may not be brand new, they offer a lower price point for a functional appliance. Always compare prices across different retailers to ensure the most advantageous purchase, factoring in any potential warranties or return policies.