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Appliance Purchase Provisions I Check First

Major appliances have complex delivery and warranty terms. A $2,000 refrigerator can become a nightmare without the right protections.

High Risk

You often have only 24-48 hours to report delivery damage. Miss that window and you're stuck with a dented $3,000 appliance.

Look for: Damage reporting deadline, inspection requirements at delivery, and photo documentation rules.

High Risk

Self-installation or using non-authorized installers can void manufacturer warranty. That "easy" install could cost thousands.

Look for: "Authorized installer" requirements and warranty void conditions.

High Risk

Return an appliance and face 15-25% restocking fees. On a $2,000 washer, that's $300-500 gone. Some retailers don't accept returns at all.

Look for: Restocking fee percentage, return window, and exclusions.

Medium Risk

Extended protection plans exclude "cosmetic damage," "normal wear," and often the parts most likely to fail. Read what's NOT covered.

Look for: List of exclusions, deductibles, and service fee requirements.

Medium Risk

Free haul-away often has conditions: appliance must be disconnected, accessible, and same type as new purchase. Fees add up fast.

Look for: Haul-away requirements, disconnection responsibility, and additional fees.

Medium Risk

Price match guarantees have short windows (14-30 days) and exclude "limited time sales" and competitors' flash deals.

Look for: Price match window, competitor exclusions, and required documentation.