Find out the Best Time to Buy a TV With These Bargain Hunting Tips

You can find a television on sale at any time of the year but if you want to get the very best price on a new television, you should make your purchase during January or February.

Why January and February Are the Best Months

Large and small stores alike offer deep discounts on TVs in the weeks leading up to the Super Bowl in order to entice consumers to upgrade before the big game. Also, all the new TV models start arriving in stores in March. This puts a lot of pressure on stores to clear out last year's inventory in order to make room for the next year's newer models. December also isn't a bad month to buy a TV because they're frequently included in Black Friday sales, although that time frame for sales is limited.

4 More Ways You Can Save on a TV Purchase

If you need to replace your TV before the January and February sales arrive, there are still plenty of ways to save. Consider these options:

1. Buy an Open-Box TV: When customers return TVs and other electronics to the store, they are often sold at a discount. Look for an open-box section in the store, and if you don't see one, ask. They may have something sitting in the back that you'd be interested in. Don't hesitate to ask if they have any display models for sale. That can be another reason for a fat discount.
2. Order a Refurbished TV: Determine which TV you want to buy, then do a web search for that specific model and the word "refurbished." When TVs are found to have a defect, they're returned to the manufacturer for repair. While buying a previously broken TV might sound risky, it really isn't. Just check to make sure the TV comes with a full warranty, and you're covered.
3. Purchase a Discounted Gift Card: If you know which store you plan to buy from, purchase a discounted gift card before you head to the store. Use a site like Gift Card Granny to find websites that are selling the gift card that you want at below face value. It's an easy way to save an additional 10% or more on top of whatever promotions the store is running.
4. Buy a Used TV: If you don't need a brand new TV, check your local newspaper or Craigslist for TVs that people are selling. There's no guarantee that a used TV will last as long as a new one but if you save enough money, it could be worth the gamble. It's easy enough to find the manual online and print it out if it doesn't come with the TV. Since you'll be dealing with strangers, play it safe by agreeing to meet in your lobby or a public space.