An appliance purchase is something you don't want to rush. Price is only one consideration -- performance and reliability are also important. So is the place you shop.

For its August issue, Consumer Reports surveyed more than 20,000 thousands readers about their shopping experiences.

"Independent stores were really the standouts," says deputy home editor Celia Kuperszmid Lehrman.

Readers liked the independents for both the in-store experience and the service and support after the sale.

"They did the best job of solving the problems and people didn't have to wait very long on the phone. They felt that the staff when they actually spoke to someone was very knowledgeable and could get their work done. And then they liked the service."

Consumer Reports says for small appliances, Sears matched independents and was rated better for price.

Keep in mind, when it comes to buying a major appliance, timing is everything. The editors at Consumer Reports say look for price breaks in September and October on cooking appliances. Refrigerators tend to go on sale in May.

For More Information:

Best appliance stores

Best ways to buy appliances

Just say no to extended warranties