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Appliances Return Policy Guide 2026
Updated January 2026 · 10 stores compared
Major appliances have some of the harshest return windows in retail. Home Depot and Lowe's give just 48 hours for major appliances — the moment they're delivered. Costco, Sam's Club, and BJ's are the clear winners at 90 days.
Best Window
90 days
Average Window
65 days
Stores Compared
10
Appliances Return Policy Comparison
Sorted by return window length. Windows shown are specific to appliances where stores have category exceptions.
| Store | Return Window |
|---|---|
| CostcoBest | 90 days |
| BJ's Wholesale Club | 90 days |
| Sam's Club | 90 days |
| Walmart | 90 days |
| Target | 90 days |
| JCPenney | 60 days |
| Home Depot | 48 hrs |
| Lowe's | 48 hrs |
| Amazon | 30 days |
| Best Buy | 15 days |
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Best Store to Buy Appliances: Costco
Costco's 90-day electronics/appliances return window is miles ahead of Home Depot and Lowe's 48-hour policy for major appliances. For large appliances like refrigerators, washers, and ranges, Costco gives you time to properly test everything before committing.
See Costco's full return policy →Tips for Returning Appliances
- ✓Home Depot and Lowe's give only 48 HOURS to report damage or issues with major appliances — inspect on delivery day.
- ✓When an appliance is delivered, inspect it immediately and note any damage on the delivery paperwork BEFORE the driver leaves.
- ✓Costco's 90 days starts from delivery date — schedule early if you won't be home on delivery day.
- ✓Best Buy gives 15 days for appliances — much better than Lowe's/Home Depot but still short for large items.
- ✓JCPenney gives 48 days for furniture/appliances — check their specific policy when purchasing.
- ✓Manufacturer warranties cover defects after the store return window — register your appliance immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions About Appliances Returns
- What is Home Depot's return policy for appliances?
- Home Depot gives only 48 hours to return major appliances (refrigerators, washers, dryers, ranges, dishwashers). This window starts from the delivery date. Standard small appliances get the normal 90-day return period. This 48-hour window is one of the strictest in retail.
- What is Lowe's appliance return policy?
- Lowe's also has a 48-hour return window for major appliances. You must report any delivery damage or issues within 48 hours of receipt. Small appliances follow the standard 90-day policy. Lowe's Advantage Card holders get 365 days on non-appliance purchases.
- Where should I buy appliances for the best return policy?
- Costco, Sam's Club, and BJ's Wholesale all offer 90-day return windows for major appliances — 45× longer than Home Depot's 48-hour window. For non-members, Best Buy (15 days) is significantly better than Lowe's and Home Depot for appliances.
- Can I return a dishwasher after it's been installed?
- It depends on the store and time elapsed. At Home Depot or Lowe's, you have only 48 hours, so an installed-then-returned dishwasher is nearly impossible within that window. At Costco (90 days), you have more time. The appliance should be in re-sellable condition when possible.