Guide to Saving on Appliances With Scratch and Dent

Scratch and dent appliances can save you hundreds without sacrificing performance.

If you know where to look—and how to inspect what you’re buying—you can land premium refrigerators, ranges, washers, and dishwashers at deep discounts with only minor cosmetic flaws.

What Are “Scratch and Dent” Appliances?

“Scratch and dent” typically describes brand-new or nearly new appliances with cosmetic blemishes, open-box returns, or floor models that can’t be sold as pristine. You’ll also see related terms like open-box (returned but often unused), floor model (display unit), and refurbished (professionally repaired and tested). All can be excellent values when you understand the differences.

Where do they come from? Common sources include shipping dings, warehouse scuffs, showroom handling, canceled installs, and buyer’s remorse returns within the store’s return window. In most cases, performance is unaffected—the flaw is purely cosmetic, such as a side-panel dent on a fridge that will be hidden against a wall.

Because retailers can’t sell these units at full price, discounts often range from 15% to 60% off MSRP. Example: a stainless-steel dishwasher with a small side dent (not visible after installation) might drop from $899 to $579–$649, while a floor-model range with light wear on the knobs could be 30% off or more.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Pros: Big savings, faster availability, eco-friendly (keeps perfectly good products in use), and potential for premium features at a mid-range price.
Cons: Limited selection and quantities, cosmetic imperfections, sometimes shorter warranties, and more careful inspection required.

Where to Find Scratch and Dent Appliances

1) Big-Box Stores and Local Appliance Dealers

Major retailers often have a clearance area for open-box, floor-model, and freight-damaged items. Ask an associate where they keep “as‑is” appliances and when new markdowns happen—managers often discount further near month‑end to clear space.

Best Buy Outlet: Nationwide outlets and an online selection of open-box and clearance appliances. Browse their outlet page at Best Buy Outlet.
Home Depot & Lowe’s: Selection varies by store. Visit in person for the best deals and ask about upcoming truck days when returns and floor models hit the floor.
Independent dealers: Local shops frequently receive freight-scratch units from distributors—call ahead and ask if they have an “as-is” room.

2) Manufacturer Outlet Stores

Brands often sell scratch and dent, open-box, and refurbished inventory directly. Expect detailed condition notes and warranty specifics:

Tip: If you find a model online, call local branches or chat support to ask about additional in‑store blemish discounts or open‑box stock not listed on the site.

3) Warehouse Clubs

Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s often rotate open‑box and discontinued appliances. Inventory is hit‑or‑miss, but return policies can be generous. Bring measurements—when you see the right fit, act quickly as these are typically single‑unit deals.

4) Refurbishers and Liquidators

Regional refurbishers buy returns and freight‑damaged loads, professionally repair and test them, and resell at steep discounts. Reputable sellers disclose condition grades (A–C) and include photos of blemishes. Liquidation marketplaces can also offer deals but require more due diligence.

Look for businesses that provide serial numbers, detailed photos, and in‑store testing.
For auction-style sources, study the terms carefully and factor in buyer’s premiums and freight.
Example marketplace: Liquidation.com (for pallets/lots; best for experienced buyers).

5) Online Marketplaces (Local Pickup)

Open-box and scratch and dent deals also pop up from installers, flippers, and homeowners who rejected a delivery due to a small dent.

Always meet in safe, public places or at the seller’s business location, and test the unit when possible.

6) Nonprofits and Reuse Centers

Organizations like Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore sell donated and surplus appliances, including scratch and dent or gently used units. Inventory varies widely by location, but prices are often excellent and your purchase supports a good cause. Find a location at Habitat ReStore.

How to Evaluate a Scratch and Dent Deal (Checklist)

Research the model: Look up reviews, reliability, and typical sale pricing. Compare to current promos on new-in-box units to ensure you’re getting a real discount.
Map the installation: Measure doorways, hallways, and the final space. Verify width, depth, height, and hinge clearance for refrigerators; check venting and gas/electrical requirements for ranges and dryers.
Inspect cosmetics: Note all dents, scratches, and finish issues. Decide what will be visible after installation (e.g., refrigerator side panels are often hidden).
Check function on-site: Ask to power on. For refrigerators, listen for compressor noise and verify display and lights; for ranges, test burners/igniters; for washers, run a quick cycle if possible.
Confirm accessories: Shelves, trays, racks, hoses, power cords, manuals, and trim kits can add up. Missing parts should further reduce price.
Verify serial and warranty: Snap a photo of the data plate (model/serial). Ask whether the manufacturer warranty starts at purchase or delivery, and if cosmetic damage is excluded (usually it is).
Ask about returns: Even “as‑is” outlets sometimes offer 7–30 day functionality guarantees. Get it in writing on the invoice.
Plan delivery and haul‑away: Get a quote for delivery, installation, and haul‑away of your old unit. These fees affect total value.

What’s a Fair Price? Quick Benchmarks

Pricing varies by brand, features, and visibility of damage, but these ranges can guide negotiations:

Open‑box, like‑new: 10%–25% off
Floor model: 20%–40% off (heavier wear = deeper discount)
Scratch/dent, visible after install: 25%–60% off (bigger/central blemishes demand larger cuts)
Refurbished: 15%–40% off depending on warranty length and seller reputation

Stack savings where possible: utility rebates on efficient models via the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder, store credit promos, card-linked offers, and negotiated delivery/installation bundles. If a new‑in‑box promo puts your target model within 10% of the scratch‑and‑dent price—and includes a full warranty—the new unit may be the better buy.

Warranty, Returns, and Fine Print

Read the policy carefully. Some outlets provide a full manufacturer warranty; others offer a shortened or store-backed warranty. Cosmetic issues are almost always excluded from service coverage, so ensure you’re comfortable with how it looks on day one.

Before paying, confirm in writing: warranty term and provider, return window, restocking fees, and whether delivery damage is covered. For added protection, some credit cards extend manufacturer warranties on eligible purchases—check your card’s benefits.

For general guidance on understanding warranties, see the FTC’s resource: Understanding Warranties.

Smart Shopping Tips (From Real-World Buyers)

Shop mid‑week mornings: New markdowns often appear after weekend returns and restocking.
Ask for photos: When buying online or over the phone, request detailed images of every blemish and the data plate.
Bundle multiple appliances: Sellers are more flexible on price when you take two or more units or include delivery/install.
Target hidden sides: A refrigerator with a dent on the left side may look brand‑new once installed against cabinetry—leverage that in negotiations.
Check model age: A two‑year‑old floor model should be discounted more than a current‑year open‑box.

FAQs

Do manufacturers honor the warranty on scratch and dent items?

Often yes, especially for open‑box or unused units, but terms vary. Confirm whether the warranty is manufacturer‑backed or store‑backed, and when coverage starts (purchase vs. delivery).

Can dents or scratches be fixed?

Minor stainless scratches can sometimes be blended with finishing pads. Panel‑ready or replaceable door panels can “erase” damage entirely. Large dents are generally cosmetic only; replacing a door or panel is possible but may not be cost‑effective unless priced into the discount.

Are these appliances safe?

Yes, provided the damage is cosmetic and the unit passes functional checks. Avoid items with bent frames, compromised doors/seals, or gas line damage.

What about delivery and installation?

Budget for delivery, installation kits (hoses, cords), and haul‑away. If your entry path is tight, ask for a door‑removal service on refrigerators to avoid additional scratches on move‑in day.

The Bottom Line

Scratch and dent appliances are one of the best ways to get premium performance for less. Shop reputable outlets, verify warranties, inspect carefully, and be ready to act fast on the right unit. With a bit of planning and the resources above, you can outfit your kitchen or laundry room for hundreds less—without compromising on what matters.