A Good Investment
Mar 03 '00
Being a productive worker in retail, I know a great deal about service contracts/warranties. I currently work in the Housewares department of a major retail store. I sell small kitchen appliances as well as cookware, and other kitchen accessories. Our small kitchen appliances are backed with a standard 30-day return policy which is typical for most retailers. As you all know, almost all kitchen electrics come with a year's limited warranty.
A limited warranty only covers workmanship defects in the product. So basically when you open the box and the product is broken, the manufacturer will fix it. First you must pay for shipping the item back, which is usually more than a service contract.
A service contract enables you the consumer to have your product fixed or at your option replaced. Think of the money you would have saved by not taking it somewhere else to have it repaired and be charged labor, parts, storage, etc. Service warranties vary with retailers so be sure to ask what it covers. Have the salesman put everything in writing for you and be sure to read the fine print of any receipts or brochures they may give you.
As a rule of thumb, I always give the customer my name or business card so they know who to reach if they have any questions. Questions, you can never ask enough questions about a service warranty.
In the long run I protect my $700 and $800 AC and fridge investments. Most people think that the appliance is new so nothing will go wrong. A service contract allows tech's to come to your home and do maintenance on the product protecting it from future problems. Tech's inspect wiring, Freon, temperature control, etc. At least I have the piece of mind knowing that if something does happen I am protected. I have it in writing and I have read the fine print.
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Epinions.com ID: missyr72
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Member: Missy
Location: West Virginia
Reviews written: 84
Trusted by: 29 members
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