
Nicholas of Milwaukee, WI on Sept. 26, 2009
I purchased this cook top in February 2005, it was not installed for six mos. In June of this year the device started clicking uncontrollably. We called a local service Company (Aaron Appliance) who we have dealt with in the past on repair of washer/dryer; they diagnosed the problem suggesting we needed to replace RF LQ Burner spark, LF & LR switches or modules, however they we unable to get large RF Burner apart and were reluctant to undertake repair for fear of causing damage. (Our cost $79.15)
On June 10. 2009, we called Jenn-Air Customer Assistance, 800-536-6247, who sent a rep from A & E Appliance Repair Company. They diagnosed problem and provided an estimate of $460.94 to repair, designating 3 parts (1 igniter, 1 Spark Module, and 2 switches). Our cost was $79.20, which we were told would be credited if we contracted with them to do repair. No time limit was designated. I was upset that a cook top I spent close to $800 for would require $460 of repair after 3 years of use.
I called Jenn-Air and was offered no relief on parts, but rather a 20% discount on a new Cook top. I found this absurd. Why would anyone buy another Jenn-Air product we this kind of experience.
We went to the Internet and researched everything we could. We found numerous frustrated customers who suggested that clicking sound was related to excess humidity that was shorting out ignition system. We got out our blow dryer and dried out system and problem went away. Unfortunately after three mos., it returned.
I called A & E, they informed me that I was no longer entitle to Credit for initial visit because it was more than 90 days from initial call. (It was 92 days actually, but no exceptions) The clicking went on for three days until we unplugged cook top. I called Jenn-Air Customer Service and explained my case. I was offered a discount on parts this time. Jenn-air ordered the parts and I called A & E to install.
The visit from A & E resulted in installation of two switches on left side. But technician could not replace Igniter on Right Front Burner, deciding that Right Front Burner needed to be replaced. Unbelievable! The part was covered by warranty! However one screw need to be replaced. Only $7! Yes! My costs $125 for parts, 143.58 for A & E, Cumulative now $427)
Now repair is complete. Clicking is gone. The technicians from A& E decided that Module spark unit wasn't necessary, the new burner included an Igniter and the $7 magic screw didn't fit in new burner. So I'm left with 3 parts I do not need. I think, no problem, I'll return the parts, they were very expensive so I should get some $$$ back. NO! I just learned that Jenn-air does not refund for electrical parts. And I have to pursue the refund for $7 screw from A & E.
Through this experience everyone has apologized, but has stuck to the book; outside of the discount on parts and the one warranty item, I've feel this is unfair. Rules are announced after the fact, at no time was I told parts were non-returnable, or that A & E's estimate was only good for a limited time frame. A & E is your service provider, why am I being squeezed by both? [Their] policies have continued to frustrate me. The pricing for replacement parts is outrageous! $7 screw, you must be kidding!
Most of the appliances I own are directly produced by [their] family of Companies (i.e., Jenn-air Cook top and Oven, Kitchenaid refrigerator and dishwasher, Amana washer, Whirlpool gas dryer). Based on this experience and seeing the generally poor quality of parts and unit construction, I doubt I will ever buy from [their] group again. I would like to return extra parts and get a refund. Please advise. I'm out $427