21 Products on Deep Discount in September
This month brings big savings on large appliances and outdoor tools, as well as grills and home goods
By Samantha B. Gordon
September is a great time to save on a variety of items across multiple categories. There are three main reasons you’ll find so many ways to save: Labor Day, back-to-school shopping, and the seasonal shift from summer to fall.
Retailers have dropped their prices on these 21 products, among others, throughout the month. There are opportunities to save on outdoor items like grills, lawn mowers, and leaf blowers, as well as discounts on tech, including cell phones and smart speakers. Add to that price drops on freezers, air purifiers, and large appliances, and you can make upgrades across your whole home for less. Plus, you’ll often see sales on other large appliances, mattresses, and even apparel and home goods this month.
Consumer Reports tracks the prices of the products we test to determine the times of year they will most likely be at their best discounts. To learn more about what goes on sale and when, see our calendar of deals.
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Smart Speakers
Smart speakers enable a lot of entertainment and smart home options, and if you’ve wanted one, September is a great time to get one on sale. They originally were best used as virtual assistants, but now there’s a wide world of options that offer impressive sound quality for music playback.
There are three virtual assistants: Amazon Alexa, Apple’s Siri, and Google Assistant. Siri is available only in the Apple HomePod, but you can find a variety of brands offering smart speakers that rely on Alexa or Google. These assistants can set reminders and timers, call an Uber, order pizza, answer trivia questions, share news and weather updates, and so much more.
Smart speakers can be especially useful if you have any smart devices in your home, providing voice control for things like lights, thermostats, and even TVs. Just make sure to check compatibility, because not every device works with every smart speaker.
CR has tested 42 different smart speakers for sound quality, versatility, and ease of use, among other factors, to help you choose the best option for your home.
Check out the following smart speaker deals:
Amazon Echo Show 5
The deal: $40 at Amazon and Best Buy
The Echo Show 5 is Amazon’s smallest smart screen. Our testers report that the sound is subpar for a music-listening device, but that’s not why you should consider this one. It’s a utility machine that works well on a night table or desk. You get all the Amazon Alexa functionality featured in other Echo devices, plus some added value thanks to the small screen and camera.
Google Nest Mini (2nd. gen)
The deal: $30 at Best Buy, Crutchfield, Staples, and Target
The Google Nest Mini is the least expensive way to get Google Assistant into your life. But the sound quality is marginal at best, neither loud nor particularly clear. The Nest Mini is, however, a solid option if you want to add smart speaker functionality to another speaker.
Laptops and Computers
Laptops and computers always tend to go on sale in August and September for the back-to-school season. Last year we saw shortages, increased prices, and delayed shipping due to the chip shortages and supply chain disruptions. And while those problems are mostly behind us, they haven’t gone away completely. So if you’re shopping online for a new computer, make sure to look at expected shipping times before placing your order. You can also compare prices and look for similar devices if the exact model you want isn’t available or isn’t on sale.
Start your search with CR’s buying guide and recommended models to find a few options that fit your needs and budget.
Check out the following deals on laptops:
LG Gram 16 (Core i7)
The deal: $1,137 at Amazon
This is quite the deal on a laptop that always does well in our ratings. The LG Gram 16 Laptop has an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of memory, and 512GB of solid-state storage. The model we tested is very similar (we added a bit of extra storage space when we bought it), and it more or less aced all of our tests. The price has dropped $20 since last week. But the laptop cost only $900 for Prime Day, so it could be cheaper again during the next big sale.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go (64GB)
The deal: $340 at Amazon; $350 at Microsoft
The relatively inexpensive Microsoft Surface Laptop Go could be a good option for consumers looking for a smaller laptop. The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go scores well in many of our tests, though the performance is a bit sluggish compared with other options. The model is lightweight (2.5 pounds), offers decent battery life (just under 12 hours in CR’s web-browsing test), and has a bright, color-accurate display. There’s a touch screen for flipping through those photo galleries.
Grills
Labor Day is the last major chance of the year to find grills on sale, though you may still find sale prices for a few weeks after the holiday. Retailers are looking to make room in their warehouses as the outdoor cooking season draws to a close. And with a few months left until it’s too cold to barbecue often (at least in some parts of the country), you might as well make the most of the fall grilling season. So whether you want a new charcoal, gas, pellet, or kamado grill, keep an eye out for sales this month.
Grill prices can range from as little as $100 to more than $3,000, depending on what you want. CR tests grills to fit every cooking style and budget, from portable models you can take camping or tailgating to larger grills designed to feed an extended family. We produce ratings of more than 150 grills to suit both first-time buyers and seasoned grill masters searching for a replacement or an upgrade.
There are three main types of grills to choose from, and each has pros and cons when it comes to cost, ease of use, cleanup, and, most important, how it cooks food. So you’ll want to review our grill buying guide if you’re not sure whether you’d be happiest with a charcoal grill, gas grill, or pellet grill.
Check out the following grill deals:
Cuisinart Portable Gas Grill
The deal: $188 at Amazon
This compact and portable two-burner Cuisinart portable gas grill is a strong performer that’s quick to heat. It’s also an exceptionally good price on a nicely finished stainless grill. The four folding legs make it easy to transport and unpack at a beach, tailgate, or campsite.
Dyna-Glo Charcoal Grill
The deal: $221 at Walmart
If you love cooking over charcoal but haven’t bothered to upgrade, the Dyna-Glo DGN576DNC-D charcoal grill, one of the best charcoal grills CR has tested, will be a step up from that rusty old kettle grill. This is the standard sale price we tend to see throughout the season. The grill performs well in CR’s tests for cooking evenness, convenience, and cleaning. And it has a built-in bottle opener, a fun perk.
Smartphones
If your current smartphone isn’t that current anymore and you’re finally ready to get your hands on something newer, September may be a great time to find a recent model at a discount. While Black Friday in November is when you’ll find the widest variety of phones on sale, the fall season kicks off with early discounts as carriers and retailers prepare for new phones.
You’re especially in luck if you’re an Apple fan, because the brand typically unveils its new devices in September, and this month should be no different. As a result, prices on the previous year’s models will begin to drop this month, and there are often trade-in deals that may help you save if you want the new model.
Not sure which phone is right for you? Our smartphone buying guide can help you find the perfect option to suit your lifestyle.
Refrigerators
If you need to replace your refrigerator, you might be able to find a good price. Thanks to Labor Day sales on appliances, the first week or so of the month is traditionally the best time to shop for a new fridge. However, pandemic-related problems have strained manufacturers and retailers in the last few years, and we’re still not seeing quite as many sales or other offers as we did prior to 2020.
There are so many types and styles to choose from, whether you want a French-door fridge or a more traditional top-freezer model. You’ll also want to consider the style and features of the ideal refrigerator. Do you want a water dispenser? Is freezer capacity important? Are you short on space? Take a look at CR’s buying guide to get a better sense of which type of fridge is most ideal for you.
Check out the following refrigerator deals:
LG French-Door Refrigerator
The deal: $3,099 at AJ Madison, Amazon, Best Buy, Home Depot, LG, and Lowe’s
The 36-inch-wide LG LRFXC2416S refrigerator comes loaded with the features we track and more: shelves that can be adjusted without moving the food on them, air and water filters, and a second icemaker (in addition to the dispenser in the door) that molds elegantly curved and oversized cubes for cocktails. This model is similar to the CR-tested (and now discontinued) LG LRFXC2406S, and we expect it to perform identically.
Whirlpool Top-Freezer Refrigerator
The deal: $530 at AJ Madison, Appliances Connection, and Home Depot
At just 24 inches wide, the Whirlpool WRT112CZJZ is one of the narrowest top-freezer refrigerators available, but it’s one of the best models in our ratings for its size. And thanks to its sub-$600 price, it’s also a CR Best Buy. The unit earns top ratings for crucial cooling functions and for noise output, making it the quietest in the class, and scores above average for energy efficiency.
Washers and Dryers
Labor Day is typically an excellent time to find a great deal on a new washer and dryer. In general, washing machines and dryers are designed and sold as sets, which means that when one goes on sale, the other typically does as well. But you can also mix and match to get exactly what you want. And they tend to have the same, or very similar, prices. But not all pairs are created equal; in some cases, you may want to avoid buying a matching set.
Washers range in price from $400 to $2,500, and there are many types to choose from. You’ll see multitasking machines that allow you to wash two loads at once, all-in-one front-loaders that go straight into dryer mode, pod-dispensing front-loaders, built-in pretreat features, washers with a steam option, and more.
When it comes to choosing the best dryer, you want one that will get your clothing dry efficiently and safely. Dryers that perform well but don’t hold up over time aren’t winners. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the most and least reliable brands.
Check out the following washer and dryer deals:
LG Top-Load Agitator Washing Machine
The deal: $628 at Home Depot, LG, and Lowe’s
One of the most affordable top-load agitators in our tests, this LG washing machine delivers across the board. The energy-efficient washer isn’t the gentlest on clothes, but it’s easier on your laundry space. It’s among the quietest models in our tests and it gets high scores for vibration, meaning it won’t disturb you or rumble on your floor. Cycle time is 70 minutes using the normal wash, heavy-soil setting.
LG Front-Load Electric Dryer
The deal: $698 at Home Depot, LG, and Lowe’s
A CR Best Buy, the LG DLE3400W is a great value, and LG electric dryers earned high scores for reliability and owner satisfaction in CR’s member survey. (We expect this model to perform similarly to the LG DLEX3700W.) This dryer is Energy Star certified (it uses about 20 percent less energy than conventional dryers) and includes a moisture sensor. Plus, it’s stackable and very quiet.
Air Purifiers
As the weather changes from summer to fall, seasonal allergies can hit hard. An air purifier may be a smart investment if you’re sensitive to this shift, because they typically go on sale around this month. They’re great if you or someone in your household has asthma or is allergic to airborne allergens like dust or pet dander.
But this year things are looking much different as wildfires on the West Coast have created a spike in demand for these items. You’re unlikely to find a discount, and you may also have to search long and hard to find any of the best air purifiers for wildfires in stock. But this gives you time to research your options at least.
In addition to looking at the purchase price of a room air purifier, you’ll want to factor in its operating costs. You could spend $150 to $200 per year on filter replacements and electricity.
To reduce those costs, seek out energy-efficient models (look for Energy Star certification) and washable filters. Choosing a large unit and running it at a lower speed will keep the noise down. Use a higher speed to clean a large room quickly.
To understand more about what to look for and how much to pay, see our air purifier buying guide and ratings.
Check out the following air purifier deals:
Blueair Blue Pure 211+
The deal: $270 at Amazon
This portable air purifier from Blueair is designed for floor or tabletop use in spaces up to 550 square feet. It aces our particle removal test at a high-speed setting and does a pretty solid job at removing dust, pollen, and smoke at a lower setting. The model features a dirt sensor and three speeds, and is pretty easy to operate. On the downside, it can be relatively loud when operating at higher speeds, and filter replacements can be costly.
Blueair Classic 605
The deal: $433 at Amazon; $448 at Walmart
The Blueair Classic 605 is one of only four models that earns top scores for particle removal at both the high- and low-speed settings. That great performance does come with a few drawbacks. Although it’s whisper-quiet at low speeds, it is noisy at higher speeds. It’s also one of the most expensive air purifiers in our ratings when you take into account the initial cost, filter replacements, and energy use.
Freezers
Stand-alone freezers tend to dip in price a few times a year, including September. Availability for these appliances has been limited in the last few years, due to increased demand brought on by the pandemic. However, things have leveled off and they’re not as hard to come by anymore. If you’re in the market for a new stand-alone freezer, you can take your time researching and selecting the right model.
Take a look at our buying guide and ratings to find the best freezer for your needs.
Ranges
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your appliances for a kitchen renovation or suddenly find yourself in need of a new oven, September is an excellent time to be on the lookout for sales. There are often decent sales on ranges this month, again thanks to Labor Day promotions. If you’re replacing your existing range, you may want to stick with a similar make and model because it will mean less hassle. Switching from electric to gas or vice versa requires more prep work and a more intensive installation and removal process. Even if you find a good deal this month, a new range may be a purchase to consider putting off unless absolutely necessary.
To learn more about the different kinds of ranges, read CR’s buying guide, which will help you determine which options will work in your kitchen.
Wall Ovens
If you’re considering upgrading to a wall oven, which offers lots of flexibility that you won’t find in a range, the model you want may be available at significant discount this month. Because most wall ovens are electric, they can be installed on just about any wall in your kitchen and at any height, so you won’t have to bend over when pulling out hot, heavy dishes.
If you spend a lot of time cooking, you may want to look into getting a double oven. Or perhaps you’re in the market for one with a convection mode to reduce cook times or variable broil to cook with even more precision. All of these options are out there, making it paramount to research before you buy. Purchasing any major appliance, especially an oven, is a big decision, and we recommend reading our buying guide and exploring our ratings and recommendations before you choose a model. Doing the research is essential to ensuring you’re satisfied with your new wall oven.
Wall ovens typically range from $850 to upward of $6,000, but keep an eye out for sales at major retailers like Lowe’s, Home Depot, Best Buy, Appliances Connection, AJ Madison, Sears, and Walmart.
Cooktops
If you’re remodeling, a new cooktop can be perfect for your kitchen island, especially if you plan to install an in-wall oven. Cooktops tend to drop in price around Labor Day and into mid-September at least, making this month a great time to buy.
You’ll find gas, electric, and induction cooktops ranging from 21 to 48 inches. Many have five or six burners, but that doesn’t mean you’ll have room to use them all at once. In general, most 30-inch cooktops have four or five burners, and most 36-inch cooktops have five or six.
Learn more about the advantages of each cooktop in our buying guide to determine which is the best fit for your home before you start shopping around. Then start your search with CR’s recommended models, which passed our rigorous tests with flying colors.
Dishwashers
A dishwasher can make quick work of cleaning, but only if it cleans and dries well. As in June and July, September tends to be a good time to find deals. Depending on which features you need and want, these appliances can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000. Some keep things simple with just the essential washing and drying functions, and others have advanced features like WiFi control, third racks, and even zone control.
Start your search by reviewing CR’s buying guide to determine the best dishwasher for your home.
Lawn Mowers and Tractors
Having the right tools makes it easier to get any job done, and that’s especially true when it comes to yard work. A good mower can make quick, easy work of unruly turf, and you may be able to find a good deal on a new machine in early fall.
Prices for lawn mowers range from a hundred bucks to several thousand, but they all often see discounts at the end of the summer season. Though it’s not necessary to spring for the priciest model on the market, spending just a bit more than the lower end of the price spectrum will get you a higher-quality machine.
You’ll want to research the options to find the best model for your property, whether gas- or battery-powered, push or ride-on mowers. In addition to that, consider factors like size, power, and upkeep. See CR’s lawn mower and tractor buying guide to learn more about your options and find a suitable mower for your home.
Chainsaws
Need to tackle some tree work? Look for sales on chainsaws in September. A top-rated model can help you clear out brush too thick for electric loppers, fell a tree that’s threatening a roof, slice off dangerous broken tree limbs, or cut a tree into logs for your fireplace.
Chainsaws come in a range of sizes, from small electric models (some with cords, some without) to hefty gas-powered models intended for heavier work. Prices often correlate with engine size for gas saws and voltage for electric saws, along with the length of the cutting bar, the arm of flat metal that guides the chain.
Finding the right model depends on how—and how often—you plan to use your chainsaw. See CR’s chainsaw buying guide and ratings to learn more about the various models.
Leaf Blowers
Leaf blowers are a great time-saver in the fall if you have trees on or near your property. They will make quick work of corralling fallen leaves, grass clippings, weeds, and other debris all year long. So you may want to invest in one this month while you can score a good deal.
Consumer Reports has put more than 50 models, including gas-powered, battery-powered, and corded electric, through rigorous tests to help you find the one that suits your needs. CR’s buying guide will help you learn more so that you can shop with confidence.
Air Conditioners
Air conditioners often go on sale in September because they’re no longer as in demand as summer winds down. Get one for less this month to beat the last of the summer heat or just be ready for next year.
You can choose a window unit or a portable AC, and some models may have features such as WiFi connectivity and a companion app. CR has tested and rated 50 models, so be sure to see our buying guide and recommendations to find the best fit for your home.
Blood Pressure Monitors
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, doesn’t have any obvious symptoms, but it can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and a number of other serious health problems. And though your doctor checks your blood pressure at every checkup, a single reading might not be giving you the full picture.
If you want to keep a closer eye on your blood pressure, you can get an at-home monitor. Consumer Reports has tested 28 models, comparing their readouts with those of a mercury sphygmomanometer (the device that’s considered the gold standard of blood pressure testing), as well as testing ease of use, comfort, and convenience.
Most models usually cost between $40 and $100. You can choose an upper-arm or a wrist monitor, both of which can have a number of different features. But keep in mind that our tests have found that upper-arm monitors tend to be more accurate than wrist models. Our in-depth blood pressure monitor buying guide is a great place to start your research.
Paints and Wood Stains
If you’re finally tackling that painting or staining project you’ve been talking about for ages, both wood stains and interior and exterior paints tend to dip in price this month. If you’re planning to refinish your deck, breathe new life into an old dresser, or give your walls a fresh coat of paint, you may be able to find your supplies for less this month.
CR has tested a number of wood stains and paints for durability, weathering, fading, and cracking, as well as the number of coats needed to cover dark colors. Read our buying guides for wood stains and paints to learn more about which products are worth buying and why.
Replacement Windows
September is a good time to invest in replacement windows. This home improvement project can help insulate your home better before the temperatures start to fall. Plus, CR has been tracking window prices for years and our data shows that prices tend to dip this month.
Upgrading your windows isn’t going to be a cheap undertaking, so you may as well take advantage of any opportunity to save on materials. Opting for just replacement windows, as long as your sills and frames are in good condition, is a good start. But if you have to replace everything, the cost will go up. Getting Energy Star certified windows offers another potential way to save on your energy bills. And there may even be local or state rebates or incentives you can take advantage of as well.
But before you can buy new windows, you’ll want to do your research. Consult CR’s buying guide, which goes over everything from choosing the right windows and materials to finding the right installer. CR has rated 14 different double-hung replacement windows for wind and rain resistance.
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Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2022, Consumer Reports, Inc.
