Portable tv with freeview not working - from Ebay

killzusall

I recently purchased (buy it now) a portable tv with built in freeview from ebay and when I opened it (in an area I assumed would be high signal) it didn't work. It turns on but no channels can be received. The seller has offered to refund minus any postage both ways once they have checked it is working. As it has been opened - and imo not fit for the purpose am I entitled to postage refunds? And should I need to wait until they have "tested" it?

Thank you.

BargainGalore

Can you try it at someone else house and do a channel scan. Most regions now are fully digital and no analogue I assume you are either in a area that gets both digital/analogue or in a very poor area. In fully digital areas they tend to ramp up the signal strength

killzusall

We are in Cheltenham and I don't think this is a poor area. I get freeview at home ok on my main tv.

aliasojo

killzusall wrote: »

....(in an area I assumed would be high signal) it didn't work.

Just a thought but do you have a proper aerial?

When this area was switched over, half the inhabitants had to get new aerials.

I wonder if the item is fit for purpose and it's just that you can't get the signals?

aliasojo

*cross posted, sorry*

wealdroam

Yes OP, you do have to wait for the seller to check the goods.

Without checking, how does the seller know you haven't bounced the thing down the stairs?
Not saying you have done this of course, but I am sure some people will try it on.

Also, if no fault is present, you are responsible for no only paying postage both ways, but also for the seller's costs in testing it.

killzusall

It doesn't make a difference whether it is broken or not though - we are entitled to a refund as it was bought online.

killzusall

OK I read the description and it says can watch anywhere - then disclaimer at the bottom saying due to the switch over you may need to wait to be switched over - but our area is completely switched over.
Thanks all for your help.

Al_Ross

Un-plug main aerial from main tv,plug it into portable tv,do the full auto tune,now do you have channels.If not, it is faulty and you are entitled to postage refunds as well.If it works with main aerial plugged in the tv is 100% okay and any postage refunds depends on what their terms and conditions state.

Ex TV Engineer (30 years experience)

wealdroam

killzusall wrote: »

It doesn't make a difference whether it is broken or not though - we are entitled to a refund as it was bought online.

Well you have three choices...

1) use Distance Selling Regulations to cancel the order within seven working days of receiving it. The seven days start with the day after delivery. In this case you are entitled to a full refund of all monies paid, including outward delivery charge. You may well have to pay for the cost of returning the thing though.

2) use Sale of Goods Act to reject the thing as faulty. The seller is responsible for all costs and you should get your money back.

3) use the SoGA to get the seller to provide a remedy... either a repair, replacement or a refund. The refund can be a partial refund to take account of the use you have had (in this case probably none). Again, the seller should meet all costs involved.

Using options 2) or 3), the seller is perfectly entitled to test the goods and if there is no fault, to bill you for his time and all carriage costs.

Which of these options you choose depends to some extent on how long ago to received the thing?

killzusall

Thank you all. Shall do as suggested by Al Ross.