Oftentimes, an appliance store will offer delivery and installation services to its customers. But these often have limitations. If you are buying appliances from your local Costco and are wondering how their installation services work, we can help you. We did some research on Costco so that you'll know for sure what to expect.
Costco will deliver and set in place new appliances. They offer limited installation for the following appliances:
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Washers
- Electric dryers
- Gas dryers
- Built-in ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers
Now that we know that Costco offers limited installation on household appliances, we'll take a look at what their delivery professionals will do for you. You might also be wondering what Costco's White Glove delivery consists of or how much Costco charges for delivery. For the answers to these questions and more, read ahead in this post to see what our research has uncovered.
How Costco Installs Major Household Appliances
Costco will deliver your new appliances to your home and even haul away your old appliance for free. To comply with their delivery and installation policy, know that the delivery drivers need to have your old appliance disconnected. They will also not be allowed to lift any new or old appliance over railings, stairwells, etc.
These workers must also be allowed to wear their shoes or work boots in your home. This is for safety reasons, as a heavy appliance dropping onto someone's foot can be a real hazard. But don't worry, these workers are professional and courteous and will actively work to not dirty your floors or carpeting.
Once you've disconnected your old appliance, you'll be ready for delivery. They'll remove your old appliance and take it to another floor of your home or take it with them to be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.
Refrigerators And Freezers
If you are getting either of these appliances delivered, make sure you unplug them before the delivery of your new ones. Uninstall the unit if it is a built-in unit. Check that there is a three-pronged outlet for the new unit nearby and that the water source has a shutoff valve.
The delivery team will set the new unit in place. They will install the handles on the desired side and hook it up to the water line if needed. Before they leave, they will also set the unit settings to "medium."
The team will also ensure that the new unit is level.
Washers
Before delivery, make sure there is a three-pronged electrical outlet nearby. You will also need to check the water valves to ensure that they are free of corrosion. Then, you'll need to make sure that the washer is drained of all water.
The delivery team will set the new washer in place and make sure that legs are installed (if needed). The unit will then be leveled.
The hot and cold lines will be attached and secured, as well as the drain hose into the drain pipe. The unit will then get grounded to a metal pipe or receptacle. Finally, the team will run a short cycle in the washer to make sure that it was installed correctly.
Electric Dryers
If you are getting an electric dryer installed, first make sure that you have a 240V outlet within three feet of where the new unit will be installed. You will also be responsible for making sure that the dryer vent in the home is clean.
The delivery team will set the new dryer in place, install legs (if necessary), and level the machine. They will install the pigtail cord on the new dryer and plug it into the outlet. Before they run a test cycle, they will attach the transition hose (dryer vent line) to the vent in the wall.
Gas Dryers
If you are getting a new gas dryer, Costco will need you to check that a three-pronged outlet is available within three feet of where it will be installed. You must have a gas line nearby with a shutoff valve. Costco will NOT install a gas line for you or modify an existing one.
The delivery team will set the new gas dryer in place and connect it to the gas line. They will level the unit, attaching legs if needed. They will also turn the gas on to the unit and run a test cycle with it before they depart.
Keep in mind that they will only be able to connect the unit to natural gas only—no propane. Local ordinances might prohibit Costco from connecting the gas line, meaning you could need to pay a plumber or natural gas technician to complete the setup.
Built-In Ovens, Microwaves, And Dishwasher
Costco delivery teams are not able to make installations for these types of appliances. These require much more effort for installation and require you to make an appointment with your own professional or with a Costco-approved installation team member.
The delivery team will set your new unit in place and unbox it. They cannot connect any of these units.
As with the other appliances that Costco delivers and installs, make sure that the necessary power and water supplies are nearby and accessible.
Ensure that proper shutoff valves, if needed, are already installed. If you've not had any of these appliances installed before, you might need to consult with a contractor before having these units installed.
What Does Costco's White Glove Delivery Policy Mean?
Costco has a delivery policy that strives to put itself ahead of the competition. They realize that not everyone has the means to carry out their purchases and need help getting them home. To make this process as seamless and as professional as possible, Costco instituted its "White Glove" delivery system.
This delivery option is the top-tier one that the company offers and involves the delivery team carrying your item into your home. They will unbox it, set the new one in place, and connect it to the needed utilities.
The team will test out the new appliance to make sure that it is in working order, then inspect and double-check their work.
While the "White Glove" delivery is included with appliance purchases, it is only one of several different delivery options for furniture, electronics, and other large items. These other delivery options include:
Standard Delivery
This is the standard delivery method. FedEx, UPS, or the USPS will deliver your item to your home or business. You have the option of paying extra for express delivery. Getting it into your home is on you, as is the removal and disposal of your old units.
Curbside Delivery
This delivery method is similar to standard, but it is shipped via a freight carrier. They will make an appointment with you and require a signature for delivery. They will not carry the item inside or dispose of your old unit.
Threshold Delivery
Threshold delivery also requires an appointment and a signature. The drivers will carry your item to the first dry and sheltered area, whether it's a garage or just inside your front door. Like the previous forms of delivery, unboxing and disposal of your old units are all on you.
Room Of Choice Delivery
This form of delivery from Costco will have the delivery drivers carry your new item into any room that you wish. They require an appointment and signature for this delivery. You will also need to ensure that the delivery drivers have a clear path into whatever room they are delivering the item.
They will not remove an older item or unbox the new item for you.
How Much Does Costco Charge For Delivery?
When buying many items from Costco, you've probably noticed a delivery charge. Whether buying groceries or other small household needs, there is a minimum delivery charge the company assesses unless your order is a minimum of $75.
When it comes to appliances, the delivery is free. They will take the new appliance to your home, set it in place, and connect it to the utilities at no cost to you. They will even remove the packaging and take your old unit with them, if asked, for no additional charge.
Some appliances cannot be installed by Costco, as we mentioned earlier in this post. But the delivery of those appliances is still free!
Final Thoughts
Costco offers many great services for its customers, including the free delivery of appliances. Costco will set in place and install most appliances, though some, like dishwashers, will need an installation expert from Costco to complete. The company offers many delivery options for their other items, each with its schedule of delivery fees.
We hope this post on Costo helped answer all of your questions. For more helpful information, we suggest reading the following posts:
Should Kitchen Appliances Be the Same Brand? (Including ILLUSTRATED examples)
What Color Cabinets Go With White Appliances? [10 Great Choices!]
How Much Space Should Be Between Kitchen Cabinets For A Dishwasher?