If you’re on the hunt for major kitchen appliances, read up on the following:

What are your individual kitchen needs? Kitchen appliances are large investments intended to last for some time, so it’s most important that they match your cooking needs. Consider how you’ve interacted with past appliances to determine how you want your appliances to function. If you were running out of room on a standard four-burner stove, consider upgrading to one with six. If a top mount refrigerator (freezer on top) didn’t hold all your frozen items adequately, maybe it’s time to switch to a bottom mount fridge (freezer on bottom). Pay attention to the extra options and features that certain appliances include. Ask yourself if you really need all of those special gadgets: if not, save yourself the money and go without.

What sizes should you look for? Before you make any final purchases, be sure you’ve measured for each appliance carefully. Measure all openings in the kitchen, measure the new appliances, and even measure any old appliances for reference. Take all these measurements with you to the showroom so you’re prepared for deciding on the right appliances.

What should you expect in terms of cost? Every refrigerator, stove, or microwave you look at will come with a different price tag, including different makes of the same type. Be sure to gather information about how long the product is intended to last, and whether delivery or installation is included in the overall price. Be weary of cheaper models: they’re likely made from weaker materials and will putter out long before appliances of better quality. When shopping for your kitchen, its best to invest money up front on appliances of good quality and value. They will last longer and serve you better, saving you money in the long run.

Should you go for the appliances with the warranties? This is up to you, but in general, it doesn’t hurt to have the security of a warranty on an expensive refrigerator or appliance intended to last for years. Do some research on individual brands that offer warranties to get an idea of how other consumers have responded to the product and whether they needed to fall back on the warranty.

What are the top five things you should look for in kitchen appliances? Read below for a brief overview on the five things you should consider for each major kitchen appliance.
Refrigerator: The right size, space-expanding features, maintainability, energy efficiency and water filters are good things to keep at the top of your mind.
Dishwasher: For dishwashers, consider the number of place settings it will hold, whether it has a delay-start option, whether it has a forced-air mode, how it works to save space, and if it has multiple cycles.
Ranges: For ranges, look out for convection capabilities, easy-to-care cooktops, warming drawers, steam technology and, if you’re an avid cook, commercial-style units.
Microwaves: A microwave’s power, convection mode, turntable size and function, food sensors and childproof doors may all play a part in the appliance you choose.

Begin your search here to see what appliances will match your family’s lifestyle and your kitchen.