High definition televisions are big this season, especially with prices so low. But there is a big downside that might make you think twice about spending your cash.
Tim Kessling turned on his high definition TV recently and found a very low definition picture on its screen.
But after six weeks of calls, his HDTV was still broken.
So how can you avoid Tim's frustration?
The "
HD guru" website has analyzed return policies of dozens of TV retailers, from stores like Best Buy and Target to obscure websites.
"HD guru" says if you buy a TV from a brick and mortar store and it doesn't work, you can usually return it within 30 days.
But it says many online retailers will not take back a defective TV, instead forcing you to deal with the manufacturer.
Among them:
buy.com -- no returns of TVs bigger than 27 inches.
Buydig.com -- no returns if the box is opened.
Clubmac.com -- warranty repairs handled "exclusively by the manufacturer."
Bottom line: ask about return policies before you buy, not after, because by then it's already too late.
If you can't simply bring it back to the store if it doesn't work make sure you know what your options will be.
