Many retailers, manufacturers, and specialized companies offer the option to extend your TV warranty through a protection plan lasting 2 to 5 years. Manufacturers frequently provide these extended warranties on their electronics and appliances. This service protects your purchase from breakdowns and malfunctions even after the manufacturer’s standard warranty expires.
Protection Plan Validity Period
The actual duration of any protection plan is usually shorter than the stated term. In the first year, repairs are covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, while the company that sold the protection plan handles coordination, sending a technician from the service center. The plan only assumes responsibility for repairing the TV after the factory warranty expires. However, it can still be beneficial, especially when purchasing an expensive TV.
What the Protection Plan Covers
The protection plan outlines which TV breakdowns will be repaired at the company’s expense. Typically, the following are covered:
- Mechanical Wear and Tear: This includes issues like worn-out remote control buttons or a non-functioning remote. Damage caused by careless handling (e.g., a crushed remote) is not covered. Note that remotes often come with a separate warranty, typically lasting only three months, but the protection plan may have specific terms for their coverage.
- Device Malfunctions: This encompasses any breakdowns, including failures of the motherboard or power supply.
- Screen Problems: Coverage typically applies only to electrical issues with the display matrix, not to physical damage. The contract usually specifies the number of broken pixels allowed before the protection takes effect.
- Ports and Connectors: Damage to HDMI, USB, and other ports from normal use may be covered, but such incidents are relatively rare.
The protection plan does not cover damage caused by insects getting into the TV, improper use of the TV (such as using it in a hotel instead of at home), or physical damage to the screen.
How Protection Plans Work
A protection plan functions similarly to insurance. When many users purchase a policy, it covers only a few individuals for any claims. For instance, if a company sells plans for 100 TVs at $55 each, they collect $5,500. This amount is usually sufficient to repair or replace 5-7 TVs, but statistically, not many TVs break down after the warranty period ends. Research shows that 70% of new electronics fail in their first year of use, yet the overall malfunction rate for TVs is relatively low. Manufacturers often do not disclose these statistics as it can be damaging to their reputation.
Key Features and Important Points
- The protection plan typically only applies to TVs purchased from a specific retailer.
- Plans for new and refurbished TVs differ. Incorrect enrollment or enrollment after the deadline can lead to difficulties in claiming repairs, and may even invalidate the warranty altogether.
- Some plans do not activate immediately; you may need to wait up to 30 days after purchasing.
- After buying a plan, you must register your TV to activate the protection.
- It’s crucial to read the terms and conditions of the plan carefully to avoid unexpected repair denials.
