The GrillingDad Answer: We recommend looking at buying a grill at the end of the peak grilling season, around August and September. But if you can’t wait that long, look for a Father’s Day Sale, or a Memorial Day Sale. You can also save money by purchasing floor models or ordering your grill online.
As you can see, we absolutely love grilling and we have a passion for well-built, long-lasting grills. But a quality grill doesn’t come cheap, so when should you look into purchasing one?
We’ve bought quite a few grills during our time, so read on to learn all the tips and tricks of grill buying.
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The Best Time to Buy a Grill
When it comes to buying a grill, timing is everything. Knowing when to buy can save you a lot of money, and ensure that you get the best deal possible.
Factors to Consider
When deciding on the best time to buy a grill, there are several factors to consider. These include:
- Grilling season: The peak grilling season is from April to July, so prices are generally higher during this time. If you can wait until the end of the season, you may be able to find some great deals.
- Demand: The demand for grills is highest during the summer months, which means that prices are often higher. If you can wait until the off-season, you may be able to find better deals.
- Inventory: Retailers want to clear out old inventory to make room for new models, so you may be able to find discounts on floor models or last year’s models if you shop at the very beginning of a season.
- Market: Keep an eye on the market to see if there are any major changes in the industry. For example, if there is a new technology or feature that is becoming popular, prices may go up.
- Budget: Set a budget before you start shopping, and stick to it. Don’t be tempted to overspend just because you see a good deal.
By considering these factors, you can determine the best time to buy a grill that fits your needs and budget. Whether you are looking for a gas grill, charcoal grill, or pellet grill, there are deals to be found if you know where to look.
In general, the best time to buy a grill is at the end of the summer season, when retailers are trying to clear out inventory. You may also be able to find good deals during the winter months when demand is lower.
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When to Buy a Grill
There are actually several good times a year to purchase a grill, depending on your situation and location.
Summer Months
The summer months, particularly May through July, are the peak grilling season. As a result, retailers and manufacturers are less likely to offer significant discounts during this period. However, if you’re looking for a specific model or brand, keep an eye out for Memorial Day and Independence Day sales, which may offer some savings.
End of Summer and Early Fall
If you can wait until the summer is over, September through November is the best time to buy a grill. After Labor Day, retailers typically begin to clear out their inventory to make room for fall and winter products, which means you can find deep discounts on last season’s models.
Additionally, Black Friday deals can offer significant savings on grills and accessories.
Winter and Off-Season
While it may seem counterintuitive, the winter months can be a great time to buy a grill. As demand drops off during the colder months, retailers may offer discounts to entice buyers. If you’re willing to wait until the off-season, you can find some great deals on grills and accessories.
Where to Buy a Grill
Just because the grill you want is expensive at one store doesn’t mean that’s the final price. We recommend shopping around at all of the following locations to find the best deals.
Brick-and-Mortar Stores
Brick-and-mortar stores are a great option for those who want to see and touch the grill before making a purchase.
Major retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Walmart, and Target carry a wide selection of grills, from budget-friendly models to high-end options. These stores also offer helpful staff who can answer questions and provide recommendations based on your needs.
Online Retailers
Online retailers like Amazon, Wayfair, and Brand Websites offer a convenient way to shop for a grill from the comfort of your own home.
These retailers often have a wider selection of grills to choose from than brick-and-mortar stores, and you can easily compare prices and read reviews from other customers. Some online retailers also offer free shipping, making it a cost-effective option.
If you want a certain brand of grill, like a Weber, we recommend signing up for notifications from that brand. This way, you will get the best deals directly to your inbox. If you really want a brand pellet grill, be sure to check out our article When Will Pellet Grills Go On Sale (Tips for Each Brand!).
Thrift Stores
Thrift stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army can be a surprising source for finding a used grill at a fraction of the cost of a new one. While the selection may be limited, you may be able to find a hidden gem that just needs a little TLC.
Be sure to inspect the grill thoroughly before purchasing to ensure it’s in good condition. Never buy a damaged grill, no matter how good the deal may seem.
Craigslist
Craigslist is another option for finding a used grill. While it may require more effort to find the right grill, you can often negotiate a lower price with the seller. However, be cautious when buying from a private seller, and make sure to inspect the grill before handing over any money.
What’s the Worst Time to Buy a Grill?
If your grill has recently broken, you may not have a choice, but if you can avoid it we recommend not buying a grill between March and June. This is because these are the prime months for grilling, and there won’t be many sales because grills will be flying off the shelf faster than retailers can stock them.
But, like we said, if you have to, you have to. Just try to look for Memorial Day and Father’s Day sales if you can.
Tips for Buying a Grill
Shopping around isn’t your only option and there are a few ways to find deals on grills besides visiting multiple locations.
Negotiating
Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price of a grill, especially if it’s a floor model or an older model that the retailer is trying to clear out.
Before you start negotiating, do your research and know the fair market value of the grill you want. Be polite but firm in your negotiations, and be willing to walk away if the retailer won’t budge on the price.
Obviously, this option will only work in person, so if you’re planning to buy online, skip to the next tip.
Comparison Shopping
Comparison shopping is one of the best ways to get major savings on a grill. Look for sales and discounts at multiple retailers, and compare prices for the same or similar models. Don’t forget to factor in shipping and handling costs, as well as any taxes or fees.
Some retailers will participate in price matching. You’ll need to research which retailers do this, then save the lower price you saw in order for this to work.
Purchase a Floor Model
Floor models can be a great way to get a discount on a grill, especially if the model is being discontinued or the retailer is trying to clear out inventory. Before you buy a floor model, make sure it’s in good condition and comes with all the necessary parts and accessories.
Purchase a Used Grill
Buying a used grill can be a great way to get a major discount, but it’s important to be patient and do your research.
Look for used grills on online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, and be sure to inspect the grill in person before you buy. Ask the seller about the grill’s history, including how often it was used and how well it was maintained.
By following these tips, you can get the best deals and discounts on grills, whether you’re shopping during Labor Day sales or any other time of the year. Just remember to be patient, do your research, and be willing to negotiate for the best price.
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