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| In finalizing the details of your HDTV purchase, be sure to understand what’s included in the price. |
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 | Delivery
There may be differences in delivery based on the size of your HDTV. Ask how the process works and whether there are delivery fees. For example, how fast will it be delivered? Will you need to be home all day, or is there more manageable time-window?
Make sure you know what will happen once your HDTV is at your house. Will it be taken into your home and into the room of your choice — regardless of stairs or other issues? Ask whether delivery includes unboxing and removal of packing materials and whether basic set up is included. |
 | Installation
Installing and mounting a flat-panel HDTV is time intensive and requires a certain level of expertise. Most people decide to have them professionally installed. Make sure your installer is a certified home theater technician.
Not all prices include installation. Ask before you buy. Most manufacturers provide different levels of service. Though you could have your TV installed on the table, wall or ceiling of virtually any room of your home, some installation services have restrictions. Often, you can upgrade the installation service by paying more.
Make sure you understand installation processes and timelines. You will need to prepare your installer beforehand by providing information about your desired installation. The installer should confirm that the way you want your HDTV installed will actually work in your environment, then come out to perform the work.
Keep in mind that some desired installations are not possible due to physical barriers within your home or safety restrictions. For example, you would need to work with an electrician to determine whether cords may be hidden within your walls. Most installations utilize track molding to hide cords due to fire code restrictions.
You should expect your installer to provide:
- Set up and installation of TV on a stand or table
- Wall mounting with various mounting hardware options
- Connection to power and local AV components
- Attachment to a security device (chain/lock)
- Functional overview of TV and remote
- Upgrade your TV installation with cables
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Premium installation services may include:
- Installation of up to 5 speakers
- Wire concealment with track molding
- Universal Remote programming
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Ready to Shop?
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 | Warranty
Upgrading to an HDTV with surround sound in your home theater is an investment. A warranty, or extended service plan, can really help give you peace of mind. When considering any service plan, make sure to understand the length, costs and what is included.
First, consider the length and start date. Most TVs include a one-year standard limited warranty from the manufacturer. Some extended service plans begin on the date of purchase and overlap with the manufacturer’s limited warranty, while others kick in after the manufacturer’s coverage expires. Ideally, you want your extended plan to be additive to the manufacturer warranty, for up to four years of coverage.
Next, make sure it covers on-site repair, and understand the level of product replacement you get if something goes wrong. Look for coverage on all parts and labor, as well as coverage in case of natural disaster.
Finally, make sure you will be supported by a service department that you can access easily, and that can handle your needs quickly. Are agents available over the phone 24/7? And if you report a problem, will you be helped by a trained technician? Many times issues can be resolved with expert help over the phone.
If the issue cannot be resolved by phone, make sure you know how quickly on-site service will be available, and at what cost. | |
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