Guarantee for electrical appliances - how long is it?
You often get a guarantee for electrical appliances. We explain the difference to the warranty and explain special features of online shopping.
Guarantee or warranty?
When it comes to damage to or replacement periods of electrical devices, colloquially one speaks mostly of "guarantee". What most people probably mean by using this word is the legal guarantee. An example:
- You bought a television from an electrical retailer and it no longer works shortly after purchase. In the store, you then want the exchange or repair. This falls under the statutory warranty obligation. The guarantee, on the other hand, is a voluntary commitment by the dealer or manufacturer and usually relates to the functionality of a product.
Check your warranty claim at anwalt.de
Warranty period
The Civil Code (BGB) clearly states that the warranty obligation is usually time-barred after 24 months. If you buy used goods, this obligation can be reduced to twelve months. This must be stated in writing in the purchase contract.
It could be trickier if you claim your right from the dealer in the event of damage. Up to six months after the new purchase, it is usually assumed that the defect already existed when the purchase was made. After half a year, however, you are obliged to provide evidence - which, however, is often not possible for you as a customer without an expensive report.
- However, most dealers strive to keep you as a customer. The dealer will therefore usually take the device back, offer you an exchange or a discount. Unless it is clear that the fault was caused by your intervention.
Guarantee with internet purchases
If you buy electrical appliances from Amazon, eBay and Co., they are subject to the same regulations as in the local specialty shop. The important difference is that you usually have to clarify your concerns in writing or, if possible, on the phone.
- In the case of new goods, online retailers often refer you to the manufacturer of the defective goods. Fortunately, they usually have a hotline and you can contact the service responsible for your claim directly.
Amazon guarantee
Amazon, the largest online mail order company, usually solves warranty or guarantee problems in a very customer-friendly manner. You will return the defective item free of charge within 30 days. After this period you have two years to complain about your goods. It is recommended that you contact the manufacturer first. This should improve or replace within the scope of the manufacturer's guarantee.
- If you are unsuccessful, Amazon's repair service takes effect. This service is only possible for certain products. In other cases, Amazon customer service will send you a return slip and your money back.
A list of manufacturer service numbers can be found here. Play now for free: The best online games. If your guarantee has expired and you want to buy a new product, you can also save money using our voucher database.