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Southern Living, Sep 2003 by Martin, Robert
When a kitchen appliance breaks, what you know about warranties, repair, and service contracts can make a big difference.
Read the Fine Print
We live in an era when products such as kitchen appliances can do more in less time. Still, the perfect refrigerator or oven has yet to be created. Until then, it's reassuring that most manufacturers provide agreements that cover replacement parts or repairs. These legally binding documents, called warranties, are almost always based on a timeframe and not how long a product has been used. Also, most warranties don't cover misuse or faulty installation.
The following list further explains these general types of agreements.
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* Limited or partial warranties: Typically, these stipulations guarantee new parts-but not the labor-to replace defective ones. Moreover, parts are usually supplied at no charge, provided they are installed by a service center that's been authorized by the manufacturer.
* Full warranties: These purchase agreements promise that a faulty appliance will either be repaired or replaced free of charge during a specific period of time, usually beginning with the date of purchase. If repairs are necessary, these contracts specify that the company or manufacturer must perform the work not only within a reasonable amount of time but also in a repair shop that is convenient to the customer.
* Extended warranties: Many manufacturers offer customers the chance to buy a service agreement extension shortly before the original term expires. Also, stores or distributors sometimes provide special deals that will automatically lengthen the life of a warranty, such as buying an appliance with a particular credit card. Generally, by extending a purchase agreement, the same conditions and limitations are updated but still apply.
* Service contracts: Unlike a full or limited warranty, which usually comes with a purchase, a service contract costs extra and acts as an insurance policy of sorts. It picks up where warranties leave off, providing a type of repair coverage. Still, these contracts usually contain clauses that exclude unconditional repairs. To keep from voiding the contract, you must precisely follow the agreement concerning the recommended repair centers. ROBERT MARTIN
Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Sep 2003
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved
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