Protect your sewing machine investment through the manufacturer’s warranty in six convenient steps:
1. Read your warranty.
The sewing machine warranty outlines your responsibilities as owner of the machine and the manufacturer’s responsibilities to the owner after the purchase of a sewing machine such as:
a. Time Limitations
Time constraints under most warranties vary anywhere from 30 days to the lifetime of the machine.
b. Coverage
There are limits to coverage under most warranties. Read your machine’s warranty to understand what’s covered and what isn’t.
c. Validation
The warranty will outline what information and proof of purchase the owner must present to the manufacturer in the event the owner must ever use the warranty, such as an original sell receipt, serial number or copy of the UPC bar code from the original box. Each warranty requires varying proof. Read your warranty to make sure you have what you need when you need to have it.
d. Information pertaining to invalidating or voiding the warranty.
Knowing the terms of your warranty is the first step in protecting your investment.
Most warranties aren’t generally transferable and cover only the original purchaser if the machine is purchased from an authorized dealer or service center.
e. Transfer
In many cases only the original purchaser of the machine is covered under the warranty. Read your warranty for specifics.
Most importantly, as it relates to proof of purchase, examine the receipt making sure it contains all relevant information required under the terms of the warranty. If a requirement isn’t included on the sales receipt go back to the store and request a special receipt from management or some type of written validation that’ll satisfy terms. Store management shouldn’t take issue if you explain you’re protecting yourself under terms of the warranty, especially if the entity is an authorized dealer of your machine.
If all else fails, contact the manufacturer directly to explain your concern.
2. Record pertinent information.
Record the name, make, model, serial number of the sewing machine, and place of purchase (along with the address, web address, phone number and date of purchase) onto an index card. Attach a photo of the machine to the index card.
If your warranty indicates the machine must have been purchased by an authorized dealer or authorized service center contact the manufacturer to confirm the store’s authentication. Note confirmation from the manufacturer.
In the end it’s better protecting yourself and the sewing machine against unforeseen issues like store closings and misunderstandings. After all, it might be many years before, if ever, you’re required to make good on a warranty.
3. Store all papers related the warranty in a safe place.
Scan the original receipt, warranty, UPC code and index card of related information onto a computer; turning this information into a single .PDF file.
Print the file and store it with originals in a safe place.
4. Register your warranty online, if possible.
Your sewing machine’s warranty may not require registration. Whatever the particulars of your machine follow registration instructions precisely. Even if you’re not required to register the warranty and the manufacturer provides a method of submitting written or online registration do it. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
5. Protect the serial number of the machine.
Protect your machine’s serial number from damage. Some warranties won’t cover if the serial number isn’t legible or removed. Store your machine in a safe location. Keep the machine covered with a sewing machine cover. A pillow case is sufficient. Take care to ensure the serial number plate doesn’t get damaged.
6. Maintain your machine regularly.
Regular maintenance is important for the life and well-being of the machine and warranty validation. Keep a service record of the machine’s maintenance, especially of incidents specifically not covered under warranty. This record could come in handy in the event there’s ever a question of your lack of proper care.