Buying a second-hand fridge, washing machine, TV or AC
Used appliances can be very good value when they come from a careful owner who is moving or upgrading. The risk is hidden faults such as a weak compressor or a leaking drum, so see the appliance working before you pay.
Updated: 24 October 2026
Before you go
- Ask the seller for the brand, model, year and the reason for selling. A person who is shifting cities usually has a fair reason.
- Ask for the bill and the warranty status. Many brands offer a long warranty on compressors or motors which may still be valid.
- Check the electricity rating label, as higher-star models are cheaper to run for years.
Refrigerator
- Ask for it to be switched on for several hours before you visit, and check that the freezer is cold and the main compartment is cool.
- Listen to the compressor. It should start and stop normally without loud knocking.
- Check the door seals, the shelves, the light and signs of rust or water leakage at the back.
Washing machine
- Run a short cycle with water. Check for leaks, noise during spin, vibration, and that the door or lid locks properly.
- In front-load machines look at the rubber door seal for mould and tears, since replacements are expensive.
- Check that drain, inlet and the control panel work, and that the drum rotates freely by hand.
Air conditioner and TV
- For an AC, run it for at least 15 minutes and see that the air gets cold, the outdoor unit does not make loud noise and the drain pipe does not leak. Ask about the last gas refill and service.
- Ask who will uninstall and install the AC. Installation usually costs extra, so factor it into your budget.
- For a TV, check the screen for lines, patches and backlight issues using different colour videos. Test ports, remote and Wi-Fi.
Moving and payment
- Agree on who arranges transport, and take photos of the appliance condition before it is moved.
- Pay after the demo, by UPI or cash against a written receipt that includes the model and serial number.
- Take the manual, remote, stand and any original accessories.
Safety tips
- Meet in a public, well-lit place and, where possible, take someone with you.
- Inspect the item before you pay and check it matches the listing.
- Never pay in advance, share OTPs, or move payment outside the agreed meeting.
- Keep contact through the listing page — contact details are privacy-gated in the app.
- Report suspicious sellers instead of continuing the conversation.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to buy a used AC?
It can be if you see it working and the seller has a service history. Remember to budget for professional uninstallation and installation.
How old is too old for a fridge or washing machine?
There is no single number. Condition and the care it had matter most, but spare parts for very old models can be hard to find.
Should I buy a used TV?
Used TVs work well when the screen is clean and the seller shows it working. Avoid one with lines, backlight bleeding or a broken panel.
Do used appliances have warranty?
Only the unexpired part of the brand warranty, if the brand allows transfer. Ask the seller for the bill and check the brand rules.