Consumers heading to an appliance store showroom to shop for a new refrigerator, washing machine, range, etc. have a myriad of selections and variations that can include different options, features, purchase prices, and energy efficiencies. With all these moving parts, it can be difficult to figure out the most cost-effective choice from among many but there are several factors that, when considered together, can certainly narrow the selections to a more manageable number.

These factors include:

• The expected amount of use for the appliance – While the expectations for the use of a refrigerator are fairly uniform among households, the amount of time that an air conditioning system can vary widely. In some areas an AC may be used for a total of a week while in others the AC will run daily for months.

• Operating efficiency – Major appliances generally come with plainly visible efficiency ratings, making it easy to compare appliances in an "apples to apples" fashion. This comparison can reveal the best value over time in terms of energy usage.

• Features – Some appliances will have features that do not factor in to the energy efficiency of the appliance and instead offer conveniences of some sort. One example would be the digital screen on a refrigerator that allows internet access. In these cases, deducting the cost of the feature from the purchasing price can present a more relevant comparison between appliances.

• Rebates and other credits – ENERGY STAR appliances often come with rebates that can reduce the cost basis of the purchase. Tax credits can work in the same manner.

• Installation costs – Installation can increase the cost of a purchase considerably, especially when compared to an appliance that can be plugged in and is ready to go.

Assessing these factors can help define the best value for each type of appliance under consideration. By going beyond the purchase price this intelligence can also reveal the true cost of ownership over time, which can be dramatically different between models that start with similar prices.

The local chain was founded by owner Rob Nicholson after he left the U.S. Navy in 1988 and started a small appliance retail sales and service operation. The business quickly grew to include retail locations in Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Portsmouth. In 2005 Nicholson opened the Laskin Road superstore in Virginia Beach with more than 40,000 square feet of space for sales and inventory. The new store was an immediate success and Nicholson began closing the smaller stores in order to focus on his proven superstore concept. The Chesapeake location opened in 2006 and followed in 2007 with Newport News, his largest store today with over 30,000 sq. ft. of appliances on display.