William Lipovsky
Short Answer — You can return most tools purchased from Lowe’s within 90 days — even if you’ve opened the box and used the item. The major exceptions to this policy are outdoor and gas-powered tools, which you must return within 30 days. All tools must be in like-new condition, and you’ll need to bring the original packaging, receipt, and photo ID to make a return.
Lowe’s Tool Return Policy
The Lowe’s tool return policy allows customers to return most tools within 90 days, as long as you provide proof of purchase, according to the return policy on Lowe’s website.
We contacted Lowe’s customer service department at (800) 445-6937 to confirm this information.
A customer service representative told us that you can return tools even if you’ve opened the box and tested them — however, the tools must still be in like-new condition.
To make a return, you should bring the original packaging and your receipt (if possible), as well as a valid photo ID and a credit card.[1]
Lowe’s will process returns with valid proof of purchase — store associates will exchange the item or provide a refund in the form of cash, checking account credit, or store credit, depending on the original payment method.
If you don’t have the receipt, a store associate may be able to look up your purchase using your credit card or phone number. Without proof of purchase, you may be issued store credit in the amount of the current sale price of the item. Non-receipted returns may be accepted at the store’s discretion.[1]
You can typically return online orders in-store or by mail. All shipping charges are nonrefundable, but Lowe’s does provide a prepaid return shipping label for online orders.[1]
Exceptions
Outdoor power equipment and gas-powered tools are exceptions to this policy, and you must return these types of tools within 30 days.
While customer service representatives and the Lowe’s website do not provide an exhaustive list of all tools that fall into this category, the website does specifically note that mowers, chainsaws, generators, pressure washers, trimmers, and leaf and snow blowers all fall under the 30-day return policy.
If you’re not sure how long you have to return a tool you purchased, you can check the back of your receipt or contact customer service.[2]
If you tested one of these products at home, you’ll need to drain the fuel before returning it. If you purchased a gas-powered tool online and used it, you’ll need to return it in-store instead of by mail. The same holds true for tools with lithium batteries.[1][2]
Damaged or Defective Items
For damaged or defective items, contact Lowe’s customer service by calling (800) 445-6937 within three days of purchase. You should direct all warranty concerns directly to the manufacturer.[1]
