If you’ve just bought a new refrigerator or stove, understanding Lowe’s return policy on appliances is key for your peace of mind. It gives you a clear window to make sure your purchase is the right fit for your home. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to required paperwork, in simple terms.
We’ll cover the standard return periods, what items have special rules, and how to handle both in-store and online returns. You’ll also learn about restocking fees, how to return damaged appliances, and what to do with old units. Let’s get started.
Lowe’s Return Policy On Appliances
Lowe’s has a general return policy, but major appliances come with their own specific set of rules. The core of the policy is a 30-day return window for most items. This period starts from the day your appliance is delivered to your home, not the day you bought it.
This is an important distinction. If you purchased an appliance online and it took a week to deliver, your 30-day clock starts after that week. Always keep your delivery paperwork, as it serves as your proof of purchase date for returns.
What You Need for a Smooth Appliance Return
To avoid any hickups at the customer service desk, gather these items before you head to the store or initiate a return:
- Your original sales receipt or the packing slip from delivery.
- The credit card used for the purchase, if applicable.
- Your government-issued photo ID (required for all returns).
- All parts, accessories, manuals, and packaging that came with the appliance.
Without your ID and receipt, Lowe’s may only offer store credit at the current selling price, which could be lower than what you paid. Having everything ready makes the process quick and ensures you get your full refund.
Exceptions and Special Rules to Know
Not all appliances follow the standard 30-day rule. Some products have longer return windows, while others have stricter conditions. It’s crucial to check your receipt or the product details at the time of purchase.
Major Appliances with Extended Return Windows
Lowe’s sometimes offers extended return promotions, especially during major holiday sales. For example, purchases made between November and December may have a return deadline in January. Always ask about current promotions and note any special dates on your receipt.
Items with Unique Return Conditions
- Refrigerators, Ranges, and Laundry Units: These must be in like-new condition, with no scratches, dents, or signs of installation. All shelves, drawers, and doors must be intact.
- Gas Appliances: For safety reasons, once a gas appliance (like a stove or dryer) is installed and used, it generally cannot be returned unless it’s defective.
- Special Order Appliances: Custom-ordered items (like a specific color or size not in stock) are typically final sale and cannot be returned.
Understanding Restocking Fees
A common concern is the restocking fee. Lowe’s may charge a restocking fee for appliance returns in certain situations. This fee is usually a percentage of the purchase price.
- No Fee: Returns due to a defect, damage during delivery, or an error on Lowe’s part typically do not incur a fee.
- Fee Likely: If you are returning an appliance simply because you changed your mind, and it is not in its original, unopened shipping carton, a restocking fee (often 20%) may apply. The fee helps cover the cost of inspecting and repackaging the item.
Always confirm with customer service whether a fee will apply to your specific return before proceeding.
Step-by-Step: How to Return an Appliance to Lowe’s
Follow these steps to ensure your return goes as planned.
For In-Store Purchases or Deliveries
- Call your local Lowe’s store. Explain you need to return an appliance and schedule a return pickup. Do not just show up with a large appliance—they need to prepare for it.
- Gather all items, parts, and manuals. Place them securely with the appliance.
- Be present for the pickup. The haul-away team will collect the appliance. Make sure you get a receipt or confirmation number for the pickup.
- Visit the store with your pickup confirmation, original receipt, and ID to complete the refund process at the customer service desk.
For Online Purchases
- Log into your Lowe’s online account and go to “Order History.”
- Find the appliance order and select “Return Item.” Follow the prompts to schedule a pickup from your home.
- Alternatively, you can call Lowe’s customer service at 1-877-465-6937 to initiate the return. They will guide you through the pickup arrangment.
- Once the item is received by Lowe’s, your refund will be processed back to your original payment method. This can take several billing cycles to appear.
What If the Appliance is Damaged or Defective?
If your new appliance arrives with damage or doesn’t work properly, the process is different. You should not initiate a standard return. Instead, you need to start a warranty or damage claim.
- Contact Lowe’s immediately. Use the phone number on your delivery paperwork or call the store directly.
- Do not install or use the damaged appliance. Take clear photos of the damage or the issue.
- Lowe’s will likely send a technician to assess the problem or arrange for a direct replacement delivery. They often handle defective items seperately from standard returns.
Returning an Appliance Without the Original Box
While having the original packaging is ideal, Lowe’s will usually accept an appliance return without the box. However, the appliance itself must be in pristine, like-new condition. All parts and accessories must be accounted for and returned. Remember, missing the original packaging might increase the chance of a restocking fee being applied, so it’s best to keep it if you can.
Haul-Away Services and Old Appliance Disposal
When you bought your new appliance, you may have paid for haul-away of your old one. What happens if you return the new one?
- If Lowe’s already took your old appliance, they generally cannot return it. The return of your new purchase will still be processed, but the haul-away fee is typically non-refundable.
- If you haven’t yet received delivery, you can cancel the haul-away service when you cancel the order.
- If you need to return a new appliance but keep your old one, simply inform the delivery team or customer service that you do not want the haul-away service performed.
Refund Timelines and Methods
How you get your money back depends on how you paid.
- Credit/Debit Card: Refunds are processed back to the original card. It can take 3-10 business days after the return is finalized to appear on your statement.
- Lowe’s Gift Card or Store Credit: The refund is usually issued immediately as a new gift card or credit.
- Cash, Check, or Lowe’s Consumer Credit Card: These are often refunded in the form of a Lowe’s gift card. For cash purchases under a certain amount, you might receive cash back.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Appliance Return Experience
- Read the policy on your receipt carefully as soon as you buy.
- Inspect the appliance immediately upon delivery. Note any damage on the delivery paperwork before signing.
- Keep all documentation together in one folder: receipt, delivery slip, warranty info.
- Act quickly within the return window. Don’t wait until the last day.
- Be polite and clear with customer service representatives—they can be very helpful when you have all your information ready.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I return an installed appliance to Lowe’s?
Generally, no. Once a major appliance is installed and used, it cannot be returned for a simple change of mind. It can only be returned if it is defective or damaged upon delivery. Gas appliances have even stricter rules after installation.
What is Lowe’s return policy for appliances after 30 days?
After the standard 30-day return period, you typically cannot return an appliance for a refund. Your option is to use the manufacturer’s warranty for defects. Always check if an extended return window was in effect at the time of your purchase.
Does Lowe’s have a return policy on open box appliances?
Yes, open-box appliances purchased from Lowe’s are usually final sale. They are sold “as-is” at a discounted price and are not eligible for return. Be sure to inspect any open-box item thoroughly before buying it.
How strict is Lowe’s appliance return policy?
The policy is fairly structured, especially for large items. They are strict about the time limit, the condition of the returned item, and the requirement for a receipt and ID. Following the steps outlined above is the best way to ensure your return is accepted.
Can I exchange an appliance instead of returning it?
Yes, exchanges are often simpler. You can visit the store or call to arrange an exchange for a different model. The process may involve paying a price difference or having a new unit delivered while the old one is picked up.
Knowing the details of Lowe’s return policy on appliances saves you time and stress. Always double-check your specific purchase details, keep your paperwork, and don’t hesitate to contact your local store with questions before you buy. With this knowledge, you can shop for your next refrigerator, washer, or oven with much more confidence.