Ways to Save When Buying a Chest Freezer – A Guest Post

The following is a guest post.

When reading frugal tips, inevitably one will see tips revolving around freezer storage.  The problem is that most freezers above the refrigerator are suitable for weekly groceries, but not bulk freezing.

If you plan to save money by bulk freezing items, the freezer will pay for itself in a year or less.  Most storage freezers that would adequately serve a family of four, cost from $200 to $300.  However, there are ways to trim the cost.

1. See if your grocery store runs a freezer deal.  In the area I live, one store regularly runs a special on freezers.  For a couple of weeks in the winter, they offer freezers such as the Hotpoint Freezer on sale for $160.  You buy it right at the grocery store.  In return, they give you $160 in coupons for frozen products.  If you play the game carefully, you can end up making money by saving the coupons until the items are on sale buy one get one free.  You use the coupon for the one you have to buy and get the other one for free.  By the end of the year, you have saved more than $160 with the coupons, not including the savings you are reaping from buying fresh fruits, etc. in bulk and preserving for later use in your freezer.
2. Look on Craigslist or Freecycle to see if someone is selling a freezer cheaply.  Some good brand American Fridge Freezers include Panasonic and Hotpoint.  You do have to be careful with this tip though.  Often newer freezers are more energy efficient.  I wouldn’t buy a used freezer unless it was less than 5 years old.
3. Put out the word to friends and family.  Chances are good that someone you know has a freezer they no longer use and would like to get rid of.  Put out the word and see if you can strike up a deal with a family member or friend.

Yes, you could go out and just buy a freezer, but if you use some of these tips, you should be able to save money when buying a freezer and save long term when you are able to stock up on fruit, breads, and meats such as chicken and beef when they are at rock bottom prices.  Don’t forget, you can also freezer cook and save yourself time every night too!