The Guyana National Bureau Standards warns consumers as follows:
We are already in the Christmas season and it is generally the peak period for purchasing household items including electrical appliances. It is a fact that the business community is already prepared for the expected increase in the volume of sales at this time of the year, and consequently it is intensifying its advertising efforts. As such, the consumer will be bombarded with information and misinformation.
It is therefore necessary for consumers who are refurbishing their homes and replacing electrical appliances to choose carefully the type of merchandise needed, taking into consideration usage and after-sales services.
In order to avoid making purchasing mistakes, there are some guidelines below that consumers should follow.
Appliances
Analyze your needs: Who will be using the appliance? How often will it be used? Where will it be placed in the home, etc, and choose accordingly.
Price: Expect to pay more for brand name appliances, added features and performance and possible workmanship… Some additional gadgets may give the appliance a better look but may be unnecessary for your needs.
Electrical requirements: Ensure that the appliance has the correct voltage (110 or 220 volts). If you purchase any high voltage appliance, you must have a higher voltage electrical line installed. You may require the services of an electrician.
Ensure the appliance has the right cycle (50 Hz, 60 Hz or 50/60 Hz which may vary depending on the area where you live). Remember to check to ensure that the watts can be accommodated in your home. (Note that higher watts may result in better performance but will require more energy.)
Certification mark: Look for the certification mark at the back of the appliance. This mark indicates that the product was tested independently in the country of manufacture and has met safety and quality requirements. Some certification marks include UL, CE, CSA, NOM, and CCC.
General tips
1. In the case of appliances, consider the size of the item and its capacity. Make sure the item can fit into the space available at your home.
2. Take into account your family’s immediate and future needs.
3. Take into consideration the frequent changes in technology which may render an appliance obsolete or outdated.
4. Buy from stores that offer warranties, good pre-purchasing advice and adequate after-sale services. Make sure you know who is responsible for services and repairs – the dealer or the manufacturer.
5. Look beyond sales and bargain prices and think quality. A quality appliance may cost more but it will last longer.
6. If you are buying your appliances on hire purchase agreements read the fine print.
7. When you are buying a new appliance, it makes good sense to choose the model that uses less energy while meeting your needs. It helps the environment and it can save you money.
8. Ensure that the appliance purchased is working at the store before taking it home.
9. Handle appliances with care; do not misuse them.
Caution: do not try to install or do any work that should be done by a qualified electrician.
If you require further assistance please make contact with Guyana National Bureau of Standards on telephone numbers 219-0065-9 or the Guyana Consumers Association on telephone number 22-64634.
