Warranties provide an extra measure of security with your purchase, but if something does go wrong with a product, who fixes it?
Let’s talk about the three basic types of warranties: implied, manufacturer, and extended.
Implied Warranty
Simply put, an implied warranty means that a seller must provide a product fit for use. If you buy a sofa, a store can’t replace it with an accent table or a washer.
If a store drops and breaks an item during delivery, you should be able to return it. (But check items out at the time of delivery, don’t wait two months to report damage.) If you purchase a TV, it should turn on when you plug it in. The exception is when you purchase an item marked “as is.” In that case, you get what you get. So, make sure you inspect for damage, plug the item in, etc., when you purchase it.
Manufacturer’s Warranty
Many manufacturers include a warranty with the purchase of an item. What that type of coverage is depends on the manufacturer. Make sure to read the warranty carefully to see exactly what it covers. These warranties normally run between a few weeks to a year. Though, there are some products, like carpet or upholstery, that come with lifetime limited warranties for things like stains.
Make sure you fill out the registration form when you receive your product and complete the registration process for the warranty. Put the warranty information in a safe place where you can easily access it.
If you have a problem with the product during the warranty period, contact the manufacturer. The contact information is with your warranty information or you can look it up on the manufacturer’s website. (make sure you go to the manufacturer’s actual website and not just whatever comes up when you Google ‘warranty’ for that brand.)
Calling the store where you purchased the product or a repair place won’t do you much good. The manufacturer must authorize the repair and they’ll only do that if they’re in contact with you. Repairs are only covered if completed by authorized service providers. The manufacturer will let you know which companies you can use. You can let them know which service company you prefer to use.
However, if you have lost the warranty contact information, a store should be able to get it for you.
Extended Warranty
There’s also the option to purchase an extended warranty. Extended warranties are a type of repair insurance policy for your item. These warranties can be offered by the manufacturer, the retailer, or a separate warranty company and may extend for up to five years or even longer. As with the manufacturer’s warranty, it’s important to read carefully and understand exactly what types of repairs are covered.
If there’s a problem with your item, contact the warranty provider first. Much the same as if your car is damaged, you contact the insurance company and not your car dealer or auto repair shop.
The contact information and procedures for filing a claim are in the information for your warranty. Make sure you keep it in a safe place where you can easily access it.
Dependable Service
The Appliance Center’s academy-trained service technicians are here to help whether you have a warranty or not. Service calls are just $99. Once our tech takes a look at the issue, we’ll give you a quote on the repair job at a fair price. For those who prefer to DIY, we have parts for all major brands of appliances.
If the product can’t be fixed or the repair is cost-prohibitive, we can help you find a new appliance at a great price from Ohio’s largest selection of furniture, mattresses, and appliances.