How to save big during the big screen TV buyer's bonanza

NEW YORK (WABC) -- What's the best time to buy a big screen TV? If you guessed Black Friday, guess again. Right now we're smack in the middle of a big screen buyer's bonanza where you can wind up saving an average of 22% per set. That could mean a savings of hundreds of dollars.

One of the big reasons for the sales sweet spot is the looming Super Bowl LII. Right now, a little more than a week out from the big game, retailers have the biggest discounts on the biggest screens - sets ranging in size from 49 to 65 inches.

The best place to start is online. You should shop there for the best price, then go to the store and watch that TV in person.

Buyers tip two is to look for open box discounts and TVs that were bought and returned. Some TVs haven't even been taken out of the box, but it could save you additional hundreds off the price.

Before you buy you should check out retailers' social media pages for tip-offs for when they post sales.

Also, forget the extras, like installation, expensive cables or extended warranties. All TVs come with a standard manufacturer's warranty that should cover you if there is an immediate problem. Extensive warranties are costly and with TVs more reliable than ever it is simply not needed.

If you bought a TV months ago, check what the price is now. Some retailers will refund you the difference, which could be hundreds if the television you bought during the holidays is now on sale for less.