Most of us are looking for ways to cut costs while purchasing something that is of good quality. Bargain hunters frequent seasonal and clearance sales to score something that fits their budget. But since such sales happen once or twice a year, some of them opt to buy refurbished items.
Usually, such refurbished products sell at 50% to 70% off its original price. Prices differ according to refurbish classification as some items are factory refurbished while others are third-party refurbished. And although the term "refurbished" does not really give a negative connotation, people differs in understanding of what constitutes a refurbished product.
Reconditioned Bosch Tools
Here is a guideline to help you identify which refurbished products are worth risking.
1. Not all refurbished products are the same. As mentioned earlier, "refurb" items may be classified into manufacturer or factory refurbs or third-party refurbs. The latter offers bigger discount and a warranty (from the third-party shop) but the former is the only one with factory or manufacturer warranty.
2. Refurbished differs from reconditioned items. A refurbished item may or may not have repaired or installed, and may or may not be slightly used. A reconditioned item, on the other hand, refers to a product previously used for a certain period and was repaired and then resold by a retailer.
3. Refurbished Electronics were items returned for several reasons. Most refurbished items are returned to manufacturers because of a certain reason. Manufacturers retest the item in the factory to make sure that they are still in good working condition. If there are damages of defective parts observed, that's the time that they will replace it and repack it to look "like new."
4. Reasons for returns include shipping damage, opened box, demonstration units, overstock items, defects during production, or simply customer's return. Since retailer stores offer 30-day money back guarantees, some customers return items that they do not really fancy. If there is nothing wrong with the product, stores will reduce the price and sell it as an open box. But if there were defects found, they will send it to the factory or manufacturer to have it repaired.
Most experts recommend being cautious of such products. But if you really want to get a good bargain, opt to settle to manufacturer/factory-refurbished items. That way, you can be sure that there is manufacturer's warranty, and the product still holds the manufacturer's reliability and reputation. You can be assured that what is being sold to you is still under good condition since manufacturers won't sell damaged items for it will ruin their name in the market.
But of course, the safest would be to buy a new one. Go online and you will see that retailer stores have price cuts offered at different times of the year. Check electronic stores once in a while and you are sure to get a good bargain for a spanking new LCD television.