Did you know that when you buy your next appliance or electronic device, you can make a big difference in how much you pay? Timing your purchase right can help you score major discounts — and save energy in the process.

At Dakota Electric Association, we know that upgrading to newer, more efficient appliances can help lower your energy use and monthly electric bill. But before you rush to buy that shiny new refrigerator or smart thermostat, it’s worth knowing when the best deals are available.

Here’s a breakdown of the best times to buy household appliances and electronics — and a few extra tips to help you make the most of your investment.

Refrigerators and Freezers: Shop Late Winter to Early Spring

If your fridge or freezer is getting older or less efficient, consider replacing it between March and April. That’s when new models start to arrive in stores, which means retailers often discount last year’s models to make room for fresh inventory.

You can also find deep discounts during holiday weekends, including Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day. These sale periods are great opportunities to upgrade to an energy-efficient model that uses less electricity and keeps your food fresh longer.

Dakota Electric even offers a rebate for recycling your old refrigerator or freezer.

Washers, Dryers, Dishwashers, Ovens, and Ranges: Fall is Prime Time

When it comes to laundry and kitchen appliances, September and October are your best bet. Manufacturers usually release new models in the fall, which means stores offer deals on older models that are still packed with great features.

If you miss the fall window, you can still save big during holiday sales like Black Friday, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, or at the end-of-year clearance events.

Pro tip: Check for Energy Star® certified models. These appliances meet higher efficiency standards and may qualify for Dakota Electric’s Energy Wise® Rebates, which can save you even more over time.

Large Home Electronics (TVs, Home Theaters): Watch for Winter Sales

If you’re eyeing a new television or home theater system, the biggest savings usually happen around major shopping events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Days.

Another good time is late fall or early winter, right before big sporting events like the Super Bowl. Retailers know people are upgrading for game day and often run special promotions on TVs and sound systems.

Choosing energy-efficient electronics doesn’t just save you money upfront — it can also help lower your electric bill throughout the year, especially if you power them through a smart power strip.

Smart Assistants and Smart Devices: Holiday Sales Are Best

Smart devices like thermostats, lights, and home assistants make it easier to manage your home’s energy use. They often go on sale during major shopping events, so look for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Days for the best prices.

Smart thermostats, in particular, are worth the investment. They automatically adjust your home’s temperature for comfort and savings — and may qualify for Energy Wise® Rebates.

Air Conditioners, Heaters, and Seasonal Appliances: Buy Off-Season

This one’s all about timing. If you buy your air conditioner in the fall or winter, or your space heater in the summer, you can often find deep discounts. Retailers tend to lower prices when demand is low to clear inventory.

It’s also the perfect time to check whether your appliances are running efficiently. If not, an upgrade can help you stay comfortable year-round — without using more energy than necessary.

Extra Tips for Smart Appliance Shopping

• Bundle for savings: Retailers often offer discounts when you buy multiple major appliances together.
• Shop around holidays: Even smaller sales like Presidents’ Day or Labor Day can mean significant savings.
• Ask about floor models: Slightly used or display models can come with steep discounts.
• Plan for end-of-year sales: Retailers often clear out inventory in December to meet yearly sales goals.
• Check local stores: Local retailers sometimes offer flexible pricing or promotions near the end of a month or quarter.

Make Every Purchase Count with Energy Wise® Programs

When you’re ready to upgrade, don’t just look for discounts at the store — check for savings here at Dakota Electric, too.

Our Energy Wise® Rebates help members save on efficient appliances, smart thermostats, water heaters, and more. And with Energy Wise® Load Management, you can lower your electric costs even further by shifting energy use to times when demand (and prices) are lower.

Together, these programs make it easy to save money, reduce energy use, and support a more sustainable energy future for our community.

Start Saving Today

Whether you’re replacing an aging appliance or setting up your dream home theater, timing your purchase right can make all the difference. Combine smart shopping with Dakota Electric’s Energy Wise® Rebates and Load Management programs, and you’ll enjoy lasting savings — on your purchase and your power bill.

*Dakota Electric does not endorse any brand, manufacturer, or product. 

Article and graphic provided by Abby Berry and NRECA
Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing nearly 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56% of the nation’s landscape.

Most of us don’t think much about lighting until it’s wrong. Maybe the living room feels too dim for reading, or the kitchen lights cast an odd yellow glow. We often grab whatever bulb or fixture looks good without considering how it will actually perform in the space. But with some planning, you can make your home brighter, cozier, and more energy-efficient.

Watts vs. Lumens
When shopping for lightbulbs, it’s easy to focus on watts, but watts only indicate how much energy a bulb consumes. For brightness, what truly matters is the lumen count. Lumens measure the actual amount of light produced. For example, an 800-lumen bulb emits roughly the same light as a traditional 60-watt incandescent bulb. (You’ve probably replaced all incandescent bulbs with long-lasting, energy-efficient LEDs, but if not, it’s time to switch!) Dakota Electric even offers rebates on LED bulbs.

A helpful rule of thumb is that higher lumens indicate brighter light, while lower watts mean less energy use. Remember to check wattage ratings for fixtures and only install bulbs that meet the fixture’s wattage safety requirements.

Color Temperature and Consistency
Light bulbs also differ in color temperature, ranging from warm yellow to cool white or even bluish shades. This detail often gets overlooked until you replace one bulb and notice the new light doesn’t match the others. If mismatched tones bother you, consider buying and installing bulbs of the same brand and wattage in a room simultaneously. That way, the appearance remains consistent, and you won’t be stuck searching for a perfect match later.

Dimmers and Switches
Installing dimmers instead of standard on/off switches can be a game-changer. Dimmers provide more control over brightness, help save energy, and create a more comfortable atmosphere. Not all bulbs are dimmable, so double-check labels before buying.

When considering switches, think about whether you have enough and if they are located in appropriate spots. A light that can only be turned off from one end of a hallway can quickly become annoying. For new installations or upgrades, hiring a licensed electrician is best to ensure everything is wired safely and correctly. Dakota Electric has a list of preferred electricians who can assist with any electrical upgrades.

Fixtures: Form Meets Function
Bulbs are only part of the equation; fixtures are essential too. Each type has a specific purpose. Ambient lighting offers general illumination, such as sconces or ceiling fixtures with glass covers. Task lighting, like pendants, desk lamps, or track lights, directs light where you need it most.

When selecting a fixture, consider more than just its appearance. Ask yourself: Does this light provide the appropriate brightness for the space? A beautiful chandelier might look ideal over the dining table but dim the room too much. Conversely, an oversized fixture could flood the room with more light than necessary, wasting both energy and money.

Smart Lighting: Energy Efficiency Meets Convenience
Smart lighting adds an extra level of control for illuminating your home. But the real benefit is convenience. With smart bulbs, you can adjust brightness, set schedules, or even change colors—all from your phone or a voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant. Want the lights to dim automatically for movie night? Or to turn on before you get home? Smart bulbs make it simple.

Smart lighting also allows you to personalize your space. You can choose classic warm white tones or experiment with colors to create different atmospheres—anything from a gentle glow for relaxing to bright hues for a celebration. Keep in mind, smart bulbs still depend on power from your wall switch, which needs to remain in the “on” position for remote controls to work. If you prefer using a physical switch, consider pairing smart bulbs with a smart light switch. Many of today’s smart switches also include motion detectors, adding extra efficiency and convenience.

Good lighting enhances your home’s appearance and atmosphere. With some planning, you can design inviting, practical, and energy-efficient spaces. Whether you choose traditional bulbs and fixtures or innovative lighting options, smart choices today will brighten your home for many years.

Article and graphic provided by Abby Berry and NRECA
Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing nearly 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56% of the nation’s landscape.