10 Things to Consider.
1. The first thing you will need to have close to hand is the make and model number for your washing machine, or other household appliance. This can usually be found on a sticker attached to the front or back of the machine, or will be outlined on the corresponding paperwork dating from the time of purchase.
2. When seeking out spares, make sure you avail yourself of the services of a genuine supplier, such as those specialising in dedicated Beko spares, for example. A specialist will have the knowledge needed to make sure the part is the right one and can provide a better level of advice and support if needed.
3. Use the internet to research the options available, making the most of the opportunity to compare prices and check pictorial guides. There are several good websites selling decent spares, so before buying a part, see if there are any customer reviews for the company in question and make sure the part is genuine. Only buy if you are confident in your choice.
4. Genuine parts are usually priced higher than copies, have long part numbers and are available from good suppliers. A copy tends to play it safe by using words including ‘to suit’ and ‘will fit’, as well as perhaps having a mixture of letters and numbers making up the part number.
5. If you do decide to go for a universal part and not a dedicated item approved by the manufacturer, be aware that this could compromise or even invalidate your guarantee for the product.
6. Before purchasing a part, check your warranty, as it may be that you can get the problem fixed under the terms of your guarantee, or get the costs covered to some extent.
7. If you have an older or rarer appliance in need of parts, check direct with the manufacturer and even if they don’t have the item in stock, they may be able to point you in the right direction.
8. In some cases, a spare part may be cheap, while in others, very costly. Weigh up the costs against the option of replacing the appliance, to come up with the most cost-effective and practical solution.
9. Do your research and find out what parts you need, where they are available, the costs and how quickly they can be with you. Have all necessary information written down and ready and then be happy with the purchase you are making.
10. Check the returns policy, just in the case the part arrives and it’s not the right one!
Josie Niven has spent many years writing about home improvements and beko spares for a number of related websites and blogs across the internet. Her own eclectic home is a constant and on-going project and a prime example of too much to do and too little time!