A consumer has won compensation after a consumer commission ruled that a refrigerator manufacturer failed to honour its warranty commitment. The commission directed the company to repair the refrigerator free of cost and pay ₹10,000 as compensation after it refused to provide repairs even though the appliance became defective within the warranty period.
The ruling reinforces that manufacturers are obligated to provide after-sales support promised at the time of purchase.
Refrigerator Developed Fault Within Warranty Period
The consumer had purchased the refrigerator in 2015 with a 10-year warranty on the compressor. However, after about seven years of use, the appliance reportedly developed a major fault, making it non-functional.
When the customer approached the company for repairs, the request was allegedly declined despite the product still being covered under the warranty terms.
Consumer Commission Finds Deficiency in Service
After examining the case, the consumer commission observed that denying repair during the warranty period amounted to a deficiency in service.
The commission held that manufacturers cannot refuse legitimate warranty claims when consumers have fulfilled the conditions of the warranty. It emphasised that warranty commitments form an integral part of the purchase agreement and must be honoured.
Company Ordered to Repair Appliance
The commission directed the manufacturer to repair the refrigerator free of cost and restore it to working condition.
In addition, it awarded the consumer ₹10,000 as compensation for the inconvenience, mental harassment and litigation expenses incurred due to the company’s failure to provide timely after-sales service.
Reminder for Consumers to Preserve Purchase Records
The ruling highlights the importance of preserving invoices, warranty cards and service records when purchasing electronic appliances. These documents often become crucial evidence in consumer disputes involving defective products or denied warranty claims.
Consumer rights experts say buyers should promptly report defects during the warranty period and approach consumer forums if manufacturers fail to provide the promised support.
Summary
A consumer commission has ordered a refrigerator manufacturer to repair a defective refrigerator free of cost after it became non-functional within the 10-year warranty period. The company was also directed to pay ₹10,000 as compensation, reaffirming that manufacturers must honour valid warranty commitments and provide promised after-sales service.
