If I were buying a used appliance I would definitely want a warranty. As for a brand new appliance, there are different warranties offered by either the manufacturer or the retail outlet where the item was purchased. In that case, I think it depends solely on what kind of assurance the buyer needs. Whirlpool has got a position with our consumer care and after market business where we sell accessory parts and service contracts and we feel that there are several ways that customer care can enhance a wealth of experience. They can do so by keeping their appliances looking better by buying the polishes and creams and clear that we offer. They can also enhance the life of the performance of that appliance by purchasing an extended warranty. Appliances are similar to automobiles; there are hundreds of working parts in any appliance. It is still a manmade appliance, so we do have failure rates and it gives the customer a peace of mind that they don't have to incur a higher service cost later on in the life of the product. With appliances getting smarter with control boards and electronics, the cost to repair those can sometimes be upwards to 25-50% of the original purchase price. But it is still peace of mind for the customer and we do offer the service contract as an enhancement to our ownership experience, not necessarily a money maker.
