When shopping for affordable yet reliable home appliances, Criterion often appears as a top choice. But if you’re wondering, who makes Criterion appliances?, you’re not alone. Criterion has grown in popularity, but many people want to know more about its origin, quality, and reputation. In this article, we’ll answer all these questions, break down the benefits of owning Criterion appliances, and help you decide if they’re right for your home.
What Are Criterion Appliances?
Criterion is a brand offering a range of home appliances, primarily in the areas of refrigeration, laundry, and cooking. You’ll find Criterion products in popular categories such as refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, and dryers. Criterion has developed a reputation for quality and affordability, which makes it a strong choice for homeowners looking to furnish their homes with reliable appliances without breaking the bank.
Who Makes Criterion Appliances?
The Criterion brand is exclusive to Menards, a popular home improvement retailer based in the Midwest of the United States. Menards owns the Criterion brand, which means you won’t find Criterion products in other big-box stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s. While Menards is responsible for selling Criterion appliances, the actual manufacturing is typically outsourced to companies in Asia, where most appliance components are produced.
Although Menards does not publicly disclose its manufacturing partners, Criterion appliances are often believed to be made by established manufacturers that produce appliances for other well-known brands. This outsourcing model helps Menards keep the prices low while ensuring quality, as many of these manufacturers have years of experience in appliance production.
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What Types of Appliances Does Criterion Make?
Who Makes Criterion Appliances so here are Criterion focuses on several essential home appliance categories:
- Refrigerators and Freezers
Criterion refrigerators and freezers come in various sizes and styles, from compact mini-fridges to full-sized refrigerators. They’re designed to offer reliable cooling performance while being energy efficient. - Washers and Dryers
Criterion washers and dryers are popular for their durability and ease of use. They come in both top-load and front-load models with features that cater to a wide range of laundry needs. - Ranges and Cooktops
For those who need kitchen appliances, Criterion offers stoves, ranges, and cooktops. These cooking appliances are valued for their straightforward design and consistent performance.
Why Are Criterion Appliances So Affordable?
Criterion appliances are budget-friendly, making them an attractive choice for many homeowners. Here are some reasons behind their affordability:
- Store Brand Exclusivity
Since Criterion is only available at Menards, there are no extra distribution fees or costs for other retailers, keeping prices low. - Basic Features and Design
Criterion appliances are designed to be functional and straightforward. They focus on delivering the essentials without too many high-end or luxury features, which also helps keep costs down. - Economies of Scale
Criterion appliances are manufactured in large volumes, allowing the brand to benefit from economies of scale. This means that the more they produce, the lower the per-unit cost, which is passed on to customers as savings.
Are Criterion Appliances Good Quality?
While Criterion appliances may not have the same name recognition as brands like LG, Whirlpool, or Samsung, they are generally well-regarded for their quality, especially given their affordable price point. Here are some reasons customers rate Criterion appliances highly:
- Durability
Many Criterion users report that their appliances last for several years without issues, indicating a solid build and reliability. - Energy Efficiency
Criterion appliances are designed with energy efficiency in mind, which helps keep utility bills lower and is a benefit for environmentally conscious consumers. - Customer Reviews
Criterion appliances generally receive positive reviews on the Menards website and in online forums, with customers praising their functionality and value for money. - Simple Repairs and Maintenance
Criterion appliances are built with a relatively simple design, making repairs and maintenance more straightforward than with more complex models from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Criterion Appliances
Like any brand, Criterion appliances have their strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick look at some pros and cons.
Pros
- Affordable Prices
Criterion appliances are more budget-friendly than many major brands, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers. - Good Variety of Products
With options in refrigeration, laundry, and kitchen appliances, Criterion offers enough selection for most household needs. - Positive Customer Feedback
Criterion appliances often receive good reviews for delivering solid performance without unnecessary extras.
Cons
- Limited Availability
Since Criterion is exclusive to Menards, those without access to a Menards store may find it difficult to purchase Criterion appliances. - Basic Features
If you’re looking for high-tech features or smart home compatibility, Criterion may fall short in these areas. - Unknown Manufacturing Sources
Menards does not disclose the companies that manufacture Criterion appliances, which may leave some consumers questioning quality assurance.
Comparing Criterion to Other Appliance Brands
For those considering Criterion, it’s helpful to compare the brand to others within the same price range:
- Criterion vs. Whirlpool
Whirlpool appliances often come with more advanced features but at a higher price. Criterion may be better suited for those on a budget, whereas Whirlpool might appeal to consumers looking for more functionality. - Criterion vs. LG
LG is known for high-tech, energy-efficient appliances, especially in refrigeration and laundry. Criterion is more affordable but doesn’t offer the smart features that LG includes in its lineup. - Criterion vs. Frigidaire
Frigidaire offers a wide variety of appliances and is often a go-to for mid-range consumers. Criterion provides similar reliability for a lower cost but might lack some of the features that Frigidaire includes.
Conclusion
In summary, Who Makes Criterion Appliances are a practical and budget-friendly option for those looking to equip their homes with essential appliances. Though Criterion may not be as well-known as other brands, it offers reliable performance, affordability, and a range of products suitable for most household needs. Manufactured exclusively for Menards, Criterion appliances are a solid choice for customers who prioritize function and value.
For more information on Who Makes Criterion Appliances, you can visit Menards to explore their selection and read product reviews from real users.
FAQs About Who Makes Criterion Appliances
Who makes Criterion appliances?
Criterion appliances are made exclusively for Menards, a major U.S. retailer. The manufacturing is likely outsourced to experienced appliance manufacturers in Asia.
Where can I buy Criterion appliances?
Criterion appliances are available only at Menards stores and on the Menards website, making them a unique option for shoppers who have access to this retailer.
Are Criterion appliances reliable?
Yes, Criterion appliances are known for their reliability, especially considering their affordability. Customers report positive experiences with their longevity and performance.
Do Criterion appliances come with a warranty?
Yes, Criterion appliances come with a warranty. However, the specific terms and coverage can vary by product, so it’s best to check the warranty details at Menards when purchasing.
How do Criterion appliances compare to other brands?
Criterion offers basic but reliable appliances at a lower price than many name brands. While it may lack some advanced features, it’s a great option for budget-conscious consumers.
