#15: Think before major purchases.

Date Completed:  3/6/2010

I’m sometimes impulsive with major purchases. OK, I’m often impulsive. I think it’s because I have so little time available for research, negotiations, comparison shopping, etc. I also often have my mind made up from slick marketing techniques or personal references before I even see the item I want to purchase. I recently wanted to upgrade my washer/dryer and really had my mind made up on the Electrolux steam pair – you know, the ones Kelly Ripa advertises? I mean, from the commercials, you’d think these machines could even fold laundry on their own. I was all set to get the Electrolux pair at Lowe’s because the turquoise model even came with a huge rebate. Then, I whipped out my Consumer Reports ratings, went home and checked out the online energy efficiency comparisons, and learned that the newest Whirlpool Duet steam system was comparable, $400 less, and way more energy efficient for water and electricity both. I absolutely love my new Whirlpool set and they work beautifully – I’m done with laundry in half the time of my old Maytag Neptune pair. Oh, and that savings from not buying Electrolux can go to pay the general contractor who needs to come over to move the dryer vent in my laundry room wall! Don’t get me started…there’s always something. Anyway, enjoy the little video below. It’s simple to learn this technique if you practice once or twice. Hint: Don't try to translate - just watch and learn.