Should I Buy Scratch and Dent Appliances?

Tired of sticker shock when browsing brand-new appliances? There's a secret weapon in the world of home goods, and it's not on sale flyers.

It's called scratch and dent appliances, and for most buyers, they're absolutely worth it. These are perfectly functional, brand-name machines with minor cosmetic flaws, often found at outlets and discount stores, priced significantly lower than a flawless model. You get the same performance and the same warranty, just with a small scratch or dent, at a discount that typically runs 10% to 50%.

Let's take a deeper look at these budget-friendly options, including when they're a smart buy and what to check before you purchase.

Key Takeaways:

• Scratch and dent appliances are brand-new units with minor cosmetic flaws that don't affect performance.

• Discounts typically run 10% to 50% off the original price.

• The blemish is often on a side or back that's hidden once the appliance is installed.

• At the DeWaard & Bode outlet, every unit is fully functional and backed by a one-year manufacturer's warranty, with protection plans up to five years.

• Always inspect the flaw, test the unit if you can, and confirm warranty and return terms before buying.

• Buying from a local retailer with in-house, factory-authorized service means help is there if you ever need it.

What Does "Scratch and Dent" Mean?

So, what are scratch and dent appliances? Scratch and dent refer to appliances with minor cosmetic imperfections, such as a small scratch, a gentle bump, or a slight discoloration. These imperfections are typically the result of bumps and bruises during shipping or handling in the store. These items are typically open-box items advertised as potentially having scratches and/or dents. 

The good news is that these blemishes don't affect the appliance's functionality at all. You're getting the same power and performance, just with a slightly different look. 

Think of it like finding a book with a slightly bent cover at a discount bin. The story inside is just as good, but you get it for a fraction of the price!  The same goes for scratch and dent appliances. You're getting a perfectly functional appliance, just with a bit of a discount for its "beauty marks."

Scratch-and-dent appliances are a great option for people looking to save money on refrigerators, dishwashers, cooking appliances, laundry machines, and other costly appliances.

Benefits of Buying Scratch and Dent Appliances

Scratch and dent appliances might sound a little rough around the edges, but for budget-conscious shoppers, they're a hidden treasure trove. You can find anything from gas and electric ovens to refrigerators and small appliances. Here's why you should consider venturing into the world of nicks and dings:

• Serious Savings: The biggest perk? Steep discounts!  Scratch and dent appliances can be marked down anywhere from 10% to a whopping 50% off their original price. That's hundreds of dollars you can put towards other home essentials (or that dream vacation!).

• Brand Name Bounty:  Looking for a top-of-the-line appliance without the top-dollar price tag? Scratch and dent sections often hold name-brand appliances with minor cosmetic flaws. This is your chance to snag a premium product at a fraction of the cost.

• Function Over Fashion: Let's face it, most appliances end up tucked away in a corner or behind closed doors.  If the "dent" is on the back of the fridge or the "scratch" is on the side of the dishwasher, who will even see it? You're getting the same performance for a fraction of the price – a win-win for functionality over aesthetics.

• Eco-Friendly Bonus:  By giving a perfectly good appliance a second chance, you're helping to reduce waste and keeping perfectly functional items out of landfills. Eco-conscious shoppers, rejoice!

• Perfect for Budget Stretchers:  Whether you're a first-time homeowner on a tight budget or simply looking to replace a broken appliance without breaking the bank, scratch and dent appliances offer a fantastic way to stretch your dollar further.

Tip: While the benefits are undeniable, it's important to be an informed buyer (we'll cover that in the next section!). But for those seeking serious savings and who don't mind a few minor imperfections, scratch and dent appliances are a fantastic option.

Considerations When Buying Scratch and Dent Appliances

Scratch and dent appliances can be a fantastic way to save money, but it's important to be a savvy shopper. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind before you dive headfirst into the dent section:

• Examine the Damage: Don't just skim! Carefully inspect the appliance for any scratches, dents, or dings. Are they purely cosmetic, or do they seem structural? A small scratch is one thing, a gaping dent near a crucial component might be a red flag.

• Test it Out (if possible): See if the store allows you to plug in the appliance and test its basic functions. Check if the lights turn on, and the buttons respond, and listen for any strange noises. While a full functionality test might not be possible, a basic check can give you peace of mind.

• Warranty Woes: Not all scratch and dent appliances come with a full manufacturer's warranty. Verify the warranty coverage with the retailer before you buy. Consider purchasing an extended warranty if the scratch and dent discount allows room in your budget.

• Know Your Returns: Ask about the store's return policy for scratch and dent items.  Some stores might have stricter return windows or restocking fees compared to new appliances.

• Check What’s Missing: Double-check if all the original parts and accessories are included. A missing manual or a shelf for the fridge might be minor inconveniences, but be aware of them before you buy.

• Think Long Term: While a scratch and dent appliance can save you money upfront, consider the potential lifespan. If the damage seems significant or affects a crucial component, it might not be the most durable option.

Which Scratch and Dent Appliances Are Worth Buying?

Almost any appliance can be a smart scratch and dent buy, because the discount comes from a cosmetic blemish, not a mechanical fault. A few notes by category:

• Refrigerators: Often the biggest dollar savings, since they carry the highest price tags. A dent on a side panel disappears once the fridge sits between cabinets.

• Ranges, Ovens, and Cooktops: A great value when the mark is on a side or back hidden by counters and cabinetry. Check that controls and burners operate normally.

• Washers and Dryers: Laundry rooms are low-visibility spaces, so a cosmetic scratch rarely matters. Confirm the door seals and the drum spins freely.

• Dishwashers: A strong pick, since most of the unit is hidden inside a cabinet once installed.

Whatever the category, the rule is the same: if the blemish is cosmetic and the appliance works, it is worth it.

Scratch and Dent Appliances at Dewaard & Bode

Scratch and dent appliances are a smart way to save on top-quality appliances without sacrificing performance, and here in Whatcom and Skagit counties, DeWaard & Bode is the place to find them. We've been family-owned since 1946; we work directly with manufacturers to bring in fresh outlet inventory, and every unit is fully functional and backed by our own factory-authorized service team, so if you ever need help down the road, we're the ones who handle it.

Ready to find your scratch and dent treasure? Browse the DeWaard & Bode outlet online, or visit us in person at our Appliance Outlet Center in Bellingham or our Burlington Showroom & Outlet. We've helped our neighbors furnish their homes for nearly 80 years, and our team is here to help you find the right appliance at the right price. Contact us with any questions.

Related Readings:

• Are Miele Appliances Worth the Price Tag?

• The Most Reliable Refrigerators For Your Kitchen

• Should You Buy Appliances On a Payment Plan?

Frequently Asked Questions