Refurbished Appliances: a Risky Money Saver?
Refurbished appliances are those that have been returned to the manufacturer and repaired. In the case of large appliances, this may involve rebuilding or replacing the motor, replacing defective or damaged parts or otherwise making it work and look like a new appliance.
Refurbished appliances are normally returned to the manufacture while they are still under warranty. The buyer, who has purchased a new appliance, expects an appliance that works and looks perfect. If there is a problem, the dealer has several options. He may send a repairman to fix the appliance, or he may exchange the appliance for a new one.
The decision to replace or repair the appliance is based on several factors. If the repair work is relatively minor, the dealer would prefer to have their repairman complete the repair. If the problem is more extensive, the dealer will often give the customer a new appliance, and send the damaged one to the manufacture. The manufacturer’s repair center is more expansive, and they are able to do major repairs. Once they have repaired the appliance, it is resold as a refurbished appliance.
Are They Worth the Savings?
Purchasing a refurbished appliance can offer you a substantial savings. Theoretically, the appliance should work as well as a new one. Whether you should invest your money in a refurbished appliance is determined by a number of factors. Before committing to a refurbished appliance, ask the salesman what warranty the appliance comes with. If there is no warranty, or just a short, 30 day warranty, that may be a warning sign that you are not getting a good deal on this appliance.
