What Are Scratch and Dent Appliances?

Tue Nov 11 2025

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If you’re shopping for new appliances and want to save money without compromising on quality, scratch and dent appliances might be the perfect solution. Many homeowners aren’t aware that these appliances, often brand-new and fully functional, come at significantly reduced prices simply because of minor cosmetic imperfections.

Whether you’re updating your kitchen or replacing an older washer or refrigerator, learning more about what scratch and dent appliances are, how they differ from used models, and where to find the best deals can help you make a smart and budget-friendly purchase.

Let’s explore what makes scratch and dent appliances such a great value, and why shopping locally at Oliver Dyer’s Appliance can help you find the right fit for your home and budget.

What Exactly Are Scratch and Dent Appliances?

Scratch and dent appliances are new or like-new appliances that have sustained minor cosmetic damage, such as a small scratch on the side panel, a dent in the door, or scuffing from shipping or handling. These flaws do not affect how the appliance performs, and in many cases, the damage is barely noticeable once the unit is installed.

These appliances are typically sold at a discounted price because they can’t be sold as “brand new in box” items, even though their functionality and internal components remain intact. For many homeowners, that means you can purchase a high-end, fully functional appliance for hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars less.

Explore our appliance outlet to find these deals.

Common Types of Scratch and Dent Damage

Not all scratch and dent appliances have the same level of cosmetic imperfection. In fact, many have only minimal blemishes. Here are the most common types of cosmetic issues you might find:

Small Scratches: Light surface marks, often on side panels or back areas that are hidden after installation.
Minor Dents: Slight dents that don’t impact doors or handles.
Scuffed Finishes: Surface abrasions that can often be buffed or polished out.
Packaging Damage: Sometimes the box or protective covering is damaged while the appliance itself is untouched.
Display Models: Appliances that have been on the showroom floor but have never been used.

The good news? In most cases, the damage is purely aesthetic and often located in areas that are not visible once the appliance is in your home.

Are Scratch and Dent Appliances Reliable?

One of the biggest misconceptions about scratch and dent appliances is that they’re somehow less reliable than new ones. In reality, they function exactly like standard retail models.

These appliances typically come from manufacturer overstock, shipping mishaps, or store display units, meaning their mechanical and electrical systems are still in perfect working condition. Many are even covered by the manufacturer’s original warranty or a store-backed warranty for added peace of mind.

Benefits of Buying Scratch and Dent Appliances

Choosing scratch and dent appliances can offer numerous advantages beyond just cost savings. Here are some of the biggest benefits:

Significant Savings

The most obvious perk is price. You can often save 20% to 50% off retail prices, making it easier to upgrade to higher-end models or outfit multiple rooms within a budget.

Same Performance as Brand-New Models

Despite cosmetic imperfections, these appliances deliver the same reliable performance and features as their undamaged counterparts.

Environmentally Friendly Choice

Buying scratch and dent helps reduce waste by preventing perfectly good appliances from being discarded due to minor blemishes.

Immediate Availability

Unlike custom or special-order appliances, many scratch and dent options are available for immediate pickup or delivery, which is perfect if you need a replacement fast.

Access to Premium Brands

Because of the lower price point, you may be able to afford a higher-tier brand or model than you initially planned, complete with advanced features and energy-efficient designs.

What to Consider Before Buying a Scratch and Dent Appliance

Before purchasing, it’s smart to evaluate your options carefully to ensure you’re getting the best deal and the right fit for your home.

Here are a few key tips:

Inspect the Appliance: Always look over the appliance in person if possible. At Oliver Dyer’s, our team will gladly show you where any imperfections are located.
Ask About Warranty Coverage: Confirm whether the unit includes the manufacturer’s warranty or a store-backed warranty for protection.
Confirm Functionality: Ensure the appliance has been tested and verified to be in full working order.
Check Dimensions and Installation Needs: Some appliances may have minor dents that affect how they fit into a tight space. Measure carefully before purchasing.
Consider Placement: If a small scratch or dent is on a side that will be hidden by cabinetry, you can save even more without compromising aesthetics.

Scratch and Dent vs. Used or Refurbished Appliances

It’s important to understand the difference between scratch and dent, used, and refurbished appliances.

Scratch and Dent: Brand new or display models with cosmetic flaws only. Fully functional and often still under warranty.
Used: Pre-owned appliances that may have wear, age, or hidden performance issues. Typically sold without warranty.
Refurbished: Previously owned appliances that have been repaired or reconditioned, often with some form of warranty but variable reliability.

When you choose scratch and dent, you’re getting a new appliance at a lower price, not a secondhand one, making it the best balance between savings and peace of mind.

Where to Find Scratch and Dent Appliances

Scratch and dent appliances are not always available at large retail chains, but local appliance stores like Oliver Dyer’s Appliance often carry a rotating selection of these discounted models.

Because availability changes frequently, visiting the showroom or calling ahead is the best way to see what’s currently in stock. From refrigerators and dishwashers to washers, dryers, and ranges, you can often find exceptional deals on major brands with only minor blemishes.

Why Shop Scratch and Dent at Oliver Dyer’s Appliance?

When you shop at Oliver Dyer’s Appliance, you can trust that every scratch and dent item has been inspected and tested for performance, so you get both value and reliability from a reliable local source with experience backed by decades of expertise.

Here’s what sets our scratch and dent selection apart:

Every appliance is thoroughly inspected and tested before sale.
You can shop top brands with warranties for peace of mind.
Our team provides honest guidance on whether a scratch or dent will be visible once installed.
We offer competitive pricing and professional delivery across the region.

Shop Scratch and Dent Appliances at Oliver Dyer’s

If you’re ready to save on top-quality appliances, visit Oliver Dyer’s Appliance to explore our current selection of scratch and dent models. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect appliance for your space, budget, and lifestyle, all without sacrificing performance or warranty coverage.

Visit Oliver Dyer’s, your trusted Texas appliance showroom, to learn more about scratch and dent appliances. Contact us online or give us a call.

FAQs: What are Scratch and Dent Appliances?

Are scratch and dent appliances new or used?

They are typically brand new or floor display models that have minor cosmetic imperfections but are fully functional.

Do scratch and dent appliances come with a warranty?

Yes, many include the manufacturer’s original warranty or a store-backed warranty. Always confirm before purchasing.

Can the scratches or dents be repaired?

Minor surface blemishes can often be repaired or concealed, especially if they’re on non-visible sides.