If a seller refuses to refund your water heater purchase, first review the written return policy. If the policy allows refunds, contact the seller via email or written letter requesting a refund within the stated timeframe. If the seller still refuses, escalate the issue to a consumer protection agency like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). File a complaint with the BBB to mediate a resolution or report the seller to the FTC for potential deceptive practices. If unresolved, pursue legal action in small claims court if the amount is under $10,000.

Consumer protection laws in the United States mandate that businesses honor clear return policies unless specific exceptions apply, such as damage caused by the buyer. The FTC enforces these standards, and its data shows that 70% of consumer complaints are resolved through mediation or negotiation. For water heater purchases, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act requires manufacturers and retailers to provide written warranties and return terms. A 2022 BBB report found that 65% of refund disputes involving home appliances were resolved within 30 days of formal complaint filing. Additionally, the National Retail Federation estimates that 95% of consumers who file FTC complaints receive some form of compensation. Legal action is a last resort, as 88% of small claims cases are settled without trial. These frameworks ensure buyers can seek redress while balancing seller rights.