Are you looking for a new refrigerator, washing machine, or other home appliance? If so, you’ve likely come across the phrase “open box” while researching different models. An open box appliance is an item that has been previously purchased and then returned to the store. As a result, they are sold at a discounted price to their original MSRP. But should you buy an open box appliance? Let’s explore the pros and cons of purchasing one.
The Pros
Price – One of the major benefits of buying an open box appliance is that it is usually much cheaper than its unopened counterpart. This can be especially useful if you’re on a tight budget but still need to purchase a quality item. Many stores offer additional discounts on items that have been opened as well, making them even more affordable than buying something brand new.
Testing – Another perk of buying an open box product is that you are able to test out the item before committing to it. This way, there will be no surprises when you get it home and find out it does not work exactly as advertised or doesn’t fit in your space as expected. You can also use this time to make sure all parts are present and functioning and that there is no significant damage (i.e., dents or scratches).
The Cons
Lack of Warranty – Since open box appliances have already been purchased once before, they do not come with any type of warranty or guarantee from the manufacturer. This means if something goes wrong shortly after purchase, you may be stuck paying for repairs or even having to replace the item entirely out-of-pocket. That being said, some stores do offer limited warranties on these types of products so make sure to inquire about this beforehand if possible.
Return Policy – Most stores have strict return policies when it comes to open box items since they cannot be resold as new products after being used once before by someone else. Make sure to ask about their return policy prior to purchase so that you know exactly what your options are should something go wrong with your item shortly after purchase.
All in all, buying an open box appliance can be a great way to get quality items at discounted prices if done correctly. Just make sure to research the store’s return policy beforehand and take some time inspecting the item itself before committing fully in order to ensure everything is functioning properly and there are no hidden issues that could potentially cause problems down the line! With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way towards finding great deals on appliances without sacrificing quality!