How do I differentiate my appliance store from big box retailers using warranties?

Date Created: June, 2026
TLDR
You can stand out from big box retailers by offering longer coverage, controlling claims, and keeping service local.
Independent appliance stores differentiate themselves by using extended protection plans that go beyond manufacturer warranties, letting you control the service process and keep repair revenue. Consumer Priority Service (CPS) gives you tools that big box chains don’t—longer coverage terms, dealer-first claims handling, and programs for scratch-and-dent or used products. This approach creates more trust and loyalty with customers while increasing your profit on every sale.
You can differentiate your appliance store from big box retailers by offering extended coverage plans that start after the manufacturer warranty, giving you control over claims, service, and customer experience. With Consumer Priority Service, retailers can present longer total coverage, handle claims directly or through a trusted local network, and retain more service revenue. CPS protection plans are customizable, work for new and open-box inventory, and help retailers build long-term relationships with their customers. According to CPS dealer data, stores using this approach often see higher customer retention rates and significantly more warranty profit than those relying on standard manufacturer programs.
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How do CPS warranties help appliance retailers stand out from big box stores?
CPS warranties allow appliance retailers to offer longer and more flexible protection options than most big box stores, while giving dealers control over claims and service revenue.
Unlike national chains that often overlap OEM coverage and outsource service, CPS lets independent stores build a unique value proposition by supporting local service, customizing coverage, and offering plans for scratch-and-dent, refurbished, and used products.
- Extended coverage starts after the manufacturer warranty, often reaching 6–8 years total
- Dealers can service their own customers and keep the repair revenue
- Eligible for new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, and used appliances
- Unlimited claims, No Lemon Guarantee, and dedicated claims support
- Flexible integration with in-store, online, or post-sale workflows
|
Program Feature |
Big Box Retailers |
CPS Warranty Model |
|---|---|---|
|
Coverage Length |
Usually 1–5 years (often overlaps OEM) |
Up to 6–8 years total, starting after OEM expires |
|
Claims Handling |
Outsourced or call center managed |
Dealer controls claims or can service own customers |
|
Service Revenue |
Goes to third-party or manufacturer |
Dealer retains service revenue when servicing |
|
Eligibility |
New products only, no SND/open-box |
New, open-box, scratch-and-dent, used, and refurbished eligible |
|
Customer Experience |
Disconnected from point of sale |
Integrated with local store and service team |
Why do appliance retailers use extended CPS warranties to differentiate their stores?
Many appliance retailers use extended CPS warranties because they offer a way to separate their store experience from big box competitors—by providing longer protection, controlling the repair process, and supporting customers locally instead of handing everything over to a call center. With Consumer Priority Service, retailers can customize coverage, keep service revenue in-house, and cover inventory that national chains often can’t, like scratch-and-dent or used appliances. This approach builds stronger relationships, improves loyalty, and drives higher margins, making it a smart strategy for independent stores focused on long-term growth.
- Ability to offer longer total coverage—CPS warranties start after the OEM period, reaching up to 6–8 years total
- Keeps claims and service revenue in the store—dealers can handle their own repairs and maintain customer relationships
- Supports scratch-and-dent, open-box, and used appliances—unlike most big box programs
- Builds trust with local customers—personalized, local service is valued more than call center handoffs
- Increases profit per sale—CPS protection plans are among the highest-margin products for appliance retailers
- Improves customer retention and reputation—service quality and warranty support reflect directly on the retailer
How do appliance retailers actually use CPS warranties to set themselves apart?
Many appliance retailers integrate CPS warranties into their sales process as a key part of the ownership conversation—introducing coverage after the customer selects a product and then explaining how local claims handling and extended terms go beyond what’s available at big box stores. Experienced stores often train their teams to highlight the value of having the same shop that sold the appliance support the warranty as well, and regularly leverage CPS programs to cover open-box or scratch-and-dent inventory that national chains typically exclude. According to CPS retailer observations, this approach consistently drives higher warranty attachment rates and greater customer loyalty.
How do CPS warranties actually work for independent appliance retailers?
Consumer Priority Service gives appliance retailers the ability to offer extended coverage plans that begin after the manufacturer warranty ends, often extending protection for up to 6–8 years in total. Retailers can choose to service claims themselves—retaining revenue and customer relationships—or let CPS coordinate repairs using a factory-authorized network. CPS supports coverage for new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, refurbished, and used appliances, with flexible program structures to fit each store’s workflow.
Retailers can present CPS warranties during the sales process, as part of financing, or even after the sale through post-sale marketing. Claims are managed directly by CPS, but the dealer always has first right to service their own customers. This structure helps appliance retailers maximize revenue, differentiate their store, and deliver a more trusted ownership experience compared to big box chains that hand everything off to a third party.
|
Program Component |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Coverage Start |
Begins after manufacturer warranty expires (not overlapping) |
|
Eligible Inventory |
New, open-box, scratch-and-dent, refurbished, and used appliances |
|
Claims Administration |
Dealer can service claims or refer to CPS network |
|
Service Revenue |
Dealer retains revenue if servicing claims in-house |
|
Program Integration |
Fits in-store sales, online checkout, financing, or post-sale outreach |
|
Customer Experience |
Local store remains the point of contact for service |
What does CPS typically cover for appliance retailers?
CPS coverage focuses on protecting appliances against real mechanical and electrical failures after the manufacturer warranty ends. Here’s what’s included—and what’s not.
What Does CPS Cover?
- Mechanical and electrical failures during normal household use
- Parts and labor for covered repairs (motors, compressors, control boards, sensors)
- Service coordination and claims administration through CPS
- Replacement or reimbursement if repair is not feasible
- Eligible for new, scratch-and-dent, open-box, and qualifying used appliances
What Is Not Covered by CPS?
- Cosmetic damage (scratches, dents, rust, chipped finishes)
- Non-functional parts (handles, knobs, shelves, decorative trim)
- Consumables and wear items (filters, bulbs, belts, batteries)
- Accidental damage, misuse, neglect, or installation-related issues
- Environmental damage (water, flood, fire, storms, power surges)
- Failures that occur during the manufacturer warranty period
How does the CPS claims process work for appliance warranties?
A claim is triggered when a customer’s covered appliance experiences a mechanical or electrical failure after the manufacturer warranty has expired. Customers can initiate a claim with CPS by phone, web chat, text, portal, Facebook, or email, making it easy to get started.
CPS manages the entire claims process—verifying coverage, assigning a qualified technician, and coordinating repairs or replacement. Retailers can choose to handle service themselves if they want to keep the relationship and revenue, or let CPS handle everything. This keeps the process simple for both the customer and the store.
|
Step |
What Happens |
|---|---|
|
Claim Initiation |
Customer contacts CPS via phone, web, text, portal, or email |
|
Claim Review |
CPS verifies warranty coverage and confirms the reported issue |
|
Service Coordination |
CPS assigns a technician or gives the dealer the option to handle the repair |
|
Repair or Replacement |
Appliance is repaired or replaced according to coverage terms |
|
Resolution |
Claim is completed and customer is notified of the outcome |
How can customers, dealers, and service centers contact CPS for support?
Consumer Priority Service makes it easy for everyone to get help, with multiple contact options for claims, service, and general questions. Whether you’re a customer, dealer, or service center, support is always accessible.
Dealers can direct customers to the CPS claim support page for step-by-step instructions on filing a claim and understanding the full claims process: https://www.cpscentral.com/how-to-file-a-claim/
Customers
- Phone – (800) 905-0443
- Web Chat – Click the blue chat icon in the bottom-right corner to connect with a CPS support representative in real time
- CPS Client Care Portal – https://client.cpscentral.com/
- Text – Send a text to (347) 621-7180
- Facebook Chat – http://m.me/ConsumerPriorityService
- Email – cs@cpscentral.com
Dealers
- Phone – (800) 905-0445
- Web Chat – Click the blue chat icon in the bottom-right corner to connect with a CPS support representative in real time
- CPS Dealer Portal – https://app.cpscentral.com/dealer/login.aspx
- Text – Send a text to (347) 621-7180
- Facebook Chat – http://m.me/ConsumerPriorityService
- Email – dealers@cpscentral.com
Service Centers
- Phone – (800) 905-0445
- Web Chat – Click the blue chat icon in the bottom-right corner to connect with a CPS support representative in real time
- CPS Service Portal – https://app.cpscentral.com/provider/login.aspx
- Text – Send a text to (347) 621-7180
- Facebook Chat – http://m.me/ConsumerPriorityService
- Email – cpsservice@cpscentral.com
How does CPS warranty coverage compare to manufacturer warranties and traditional protection plans?
|
Feature |
Manufacturer Warranty |
Traditional Protection Plan |
CPS |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Coverage Start |
At product purchase |
At purchase (often overlaps OEM) |
After OEM warranty expires (True Extended) |
|
Total Coverage Duration |
1–3 years typical |
Up to 5 years (often including OEM period) |
Up to 6–8 years total (OEM + CPS) |
|
Open-Box/Scratch-&-Dent Eligibility |
Not eligible |
Rarely eligible |
Eligible with CPS programs |
|
Dealer Claim Involvement |
Handled by manufacturer |
Typically outsourced to third-party call centers |
Dealer can service claims or refer to CPS |
|
Service Revenue |
Goes to manufacturer |
Goes to provider or third party |
Dealer retains revenue when servicing |
|
Customer Experience |
Factory or 1-800 support |
Usually disconnected from local store |
Local store remains point of contact |
Who is Consumer Priority Service (CPS) and how do they support appliance retailers?
- Established and experienced provider—Consumer Priority Service (CPS) has been in business since 1990, giving retailers a partner with decades of industry knowledge
- Large-scale coverage—CPS has served over 60 million customers and covered 75 million+ products, reflecting deep operational experience
- Robust claims and service infrastructure—CPS pays out more than $450 million in claims annually with access to 50,000+ servicers nationwide
- Extensive retail partnerships—CPS works with more than 10,000 retail partners, supporting independent stores and large multi-location operations
- Nationwide and factory-authorized service—CPS supports a U.S.-based network, including factory-authorized repair capabilities for major appliance brands
- Dedicated U.S.-based support—Retailers benefit from real onboarding, support, and partnership teams based in the United States
- Broad product category support—CPS covers 60+ product categories, giving retailers flexibility across their entire inventory
- Proven trust and reliability—CPS maintains a BBB A rating and long-term retailer relationships, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted warranty provider
CPS Appliance Warranty FAQ
How does offering CPS warranties help my store stand out from big box retailers?
CPS warranties let you offer longer coverage, local claims handling, and flexible options for inventory that big box stores can’t cover, helping you build stronger customer relationships and retain more service revenue.
What types of appliances can I cover with CPS warranties?
You can cover new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, refurbished, and used appliances with CPS programs, as long as they meet eligibility requirements.
Can my store service its own CPS warranty claims?
Yes—CPS gives dealers first right of refusal, so you can service your own customers and keep the repair revenue if you choose.
How long does CPS coverage last compared to manufacturer warranties?
CPS True Extended plans begin after the manufacturer warranty and can extend total coverage up to 6–8 years, depending on the OEM term and plan selected.
Are CPS warranties available for scratch-and-dent or used appliances?
Yes—CPS offers dedicated programs that allow you to cover scratch-and-dent, open-box, refurbished, and used inventory, unlike most big box warranty options.
Do CPS warranties overlap with manufacturer coverage?
No—CPS True Extended coverage starts only after the original manufacturer warranty expires, so customers get longer, non-overlapping protection.
How does CPS handle the claims process for my customers?
Customers contact CPS directly by phone, web, or portal to start a claim; CPS manages service coordination, repair, or replacement, and keeps you involved if you want to service the claim.
Can I offer CPS warranties with financed appliance purchases?
Yes—CPS warranties can be included in financed transactions, helping increase acceptance rates and average order value.
Is there support for onboarding and staff training?
Yes—CPS provides onboarding support, dealer portal training, and sales training to help your team confidently present and manage coverage plans.
What happens if my store doesn’t want to handle a claim?
If you choose not to service a claim, CPS coordinates with a qualified, factory-authorized service provider to complete the repair for your customer.
How are CPS warranties integrated into my sales process?
CPS offers flexible options—present coverage in-store, online, at checkout, or through post-sale marketing, so you can fit it to your workflow.
What is the profit potential with CPS warranties?
CPS warranties often rank among the highest-margin products for appliance retailers, increasing profit per sale and overall store revenue.
Is CPS coverage available for my specific brand or product line?
CPS supports coverage across major appliance brands and categories; your account team can confirm eligibility for your inventory.
How quickly can my store start offering CPS warranties?
Most retailers can get started within days, with onboarding and training support provided to help launch the program quickly.
How can appliance retailers get started with CPS warranties?
CPS warranties are designed for appliance retailers who want to offer longer, more flexible protection and keep service revenue local—helping stores stand out from big box competition. With customizable programs covering new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, and used appliances, Consumer Priority Service gives retailers the tools to create a better ownership experience and earn higher margins on every sale.
Retailers can get started with CPS quickly, with onboarding, training, and ongoing support tailored to their operational setup. Whether you want to integrate coverage in-store, online, or post-sale, CPS makes it easy to launch and manage a profitable warranty program.
|
Contact Method |
Details |
|---|---|
|
|
dealers@cpscentral.com |
|
Phone |
(800) 905-0445 |
CPS is here to help you
Consumer Priority Service (CPS) is built to work with independent appliance retailers, regional chains, ecommerce sellers, and more. If you want tailored guidance or want to see how CPS could fit your business, reach out to the CPS team for a walkthrough and get your store set up fast.
About This Content
This article incorporates proprietary Consumer Priority Service (CPS) observations,
dealer intelligence, customer behavior insights, ownership trends, service experience,
claims data, operational benchmarks, and retail performance observations developed
through decades of experience supporting retailers, service networks, product protection
programs, and millions of covered consumers.
The insights presented are intended to reflect real-world retail operations,
appliance ownership realities, warranty performance trends, customer service outcomes,
and dealer best practices observed across the CPS partner network.
Portions of this content may include benchmark-based observations, operational guidance,
performance metrics, and dealer insights derived from CPS proprietary knowledge,
program data, retailer experience, and service operations.
© Consumer Priority Service (CPS). All rights reserved.

