If you have been camera shopping you know that the only way to go when buying a camera for your child is digital. There are so many different choices, features, and settings you get with a digital camera, why would you go any other way? Most if not all electronics today are sold with in store warranties, and then with the option of purchasing an extended warranty. What is the importance of warranties for digital cameras for kids? I think we all would agree that warranties may cost more money up front, but can save us form disastrous accidents. As a parent though, we know and have seen the hassle of being able to redeem a warranty, so is it really worth it?
Extended Warranties
When people buy electronics they are usually satisfied with the warranty it comes with, (which is usually about 6-12 months) but what usually happens is that right after that warranty has expired something happens with the electronic equipment. So when you’re purchasing a digital camera for your child make sure you purchase the extended warranty. That way if something does happen you know you’re covered for getting it fixed or sometimes totally replacing it with a new one.
What is an extended warranty?
An extended warranty is a continuation of the warranty you already get when you purchase the camera. Just like it says, it “extends” the warranty. The extended warranty is usually sold by an outside repair agency so if something happens and the camera warranty is expired you have to know who to call and where to take it. Sometimes however, camera makers will offer their own extended warranty plans which can be very convenient and easy.
How much will I have to pay and how long will it last?
Extended warranties can last anywhere between twelve months to ten years. It really depends on what kind of camera you buy and who the maker of the camera is. As far as price goes it really depends on how much you initially pay for the camera. For a five hundred dollar camera you might pay about fifty or sixty dollars for a five year extended warranty plan. The nice thing about extended warranties is that they are usually renewable (at a cost of course) and some even cover the costs if the camera breaks or is damaged internally.
What exactly will an extended warranty cover?
If your camera breaks due to being dropped accidentally or some malfunction within the camera that you had no control over then you simply take it back to the store or send it to the extended warranty agency and they should replace it free of charge. If the camera has been misused or abused in some sort of way and that is the reason for the claim the extended warranty works a little differently. You will still be able to send it in to be repaired but you will have to pay for those repairs on your own. If you buy a digital camera at a Ritz Camera store or a member of their chain they will cover both the manufacturer’s warranty due to normal use and any mechanical or electrical failure caused by misuse or abuse.
Understanding the importance of warranties for digital cameras for kids can save you a lot of money when something happens to the camera. I say “when something happens” and not “if something happens” because let’s face it, kids are kids and accidents happen.
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