Service Contracts for Consumer Electronics
and Appliances
Thousands of consumer electronic products and appliances are sold daily in the U.S. and along with them, many consumers choose service contracts to protect the purchase after the manufacturer's warranty runs out. Many consumers purchase service contracts for the peace of mind they offer and the availability of immediate assistance if their product malfunctions. Some service contracts even cover damages suffered as a result of a malfunction, as in the case of a power surge that destroys data or an outage that spoils the contents of a refrigerator.
Service contracts give customers the option to extend their product protection beyond the warranty terms included in the purchase of their consumer product, and can help consumers maximize the enjoyment of their purchase by keeping their products in top operating condition. With help just a phone call or mouse click away, consumers also enjoy saving valuable time, money and energy when their product needs repair or replacement.
Service contracts add a small additional cost to the product purchase, but by covering unexpected repairs, can save a consumer significant expense over the long run. In addition to the financial benefit, service contracts protect an even greater personal asset - time.
Where to Purchase a Service Contract:
- Most service contracts for consumer electronics and appliances are sold by retailers at the point of sale.
- Service contacts for consumer goods also can be purchased shortly after the product purchase directly from companies that specialize in selling and servicing consumer service contracts.
- Service contracts are available for both new and previously-owned homes.
- The vast majority of service contracts are sold and/or administered by reputable, licensed companies that abide by current regulations, adhere to high principles of customer service, and are protected by financial reserves and/or insurance.
- A list of consumer goods service contract providers who are members of the Service Contract Industry Council, a non-profit trade association representing the service contract industry, is available here.
Service Contacts Benefits can include:
- Discounted product repair
- Product replacement
- Access to pre-qualified technicians
- In-home repair service
- 24-hour technical assistance
- Routine maintenance, such as cleanings and tune-ups
- Major component coverage
- Comprehensive coverage
- Accident damage from handling
- Free shipping
Consumers Tips for Purchasing and Utilizing Service Contracts:
- Read the provisions carefully and become thoroughly familiar with all coverage and exclusions
- Carefully fulfill all obligatory responsibilities, such as proper handling, voltage, etc.
- Keep the service contract paperwork, original receipt(s), and all maintenance records in a secure, easy-to-access location
- Utilize the service contract for all covered repairs to maximize the function, value and enjoyment of your products
