Vitamix Certified Refurbished Blenders: Their lofty price often stops consumers who are interested in buying high-powered blenders for home use. However, it seems there is a solution to this problem. For example, Vitamix, which is a leader in the high-end blender market, offers a certified reconditioned model that is discounted by an average of 38% and even more than the original price. Therefore, many customers wonder if the Vitamix-certified reconditioned machines demonstrate the same durability and quality of performance as the original models and thus are worthy of buying.
In our article, we will analyze all of the pros and cons of Vitamix refurbished blenders to answer this question.
Table of Contents
What is wrong with the units that went through reconditioning?
The reconditioned machines are selected from those returned by customers. But Vitamix machines are well-known for their exceptional quality and very low number of faulty features. So, where do those machines that go through the reconditioning process come from? Why were they returned, and why are there so many of them?
1. Wrong model or color orders
Sometimes people purchase the wrong color or model. Then, when the machine arrives, the customer may change his or her mind and decide, for example, to replace the brushed stainless model with the cheaper black model and thus save some money or vice versa. Or, the customer may decide to upgrade the model to one with pre-set programs or, in the opposite scenario, downgrade to the machine without pre-program settings, thus saving some money. Considering the 30-day free shipping return option, Vitamix consumers can quite easily change their minds because it does not affect their budget. Hence, the returned units will go into the reconditioning process.
2. Orders on impulse
Vitamix sells a large volume of their product on demonstrations — Costco, Whole Foods, and others. The salespeople are so persuasive that many people buy the blender on impulse. But when they bring the unit home, they realize that they cannot afford it or they simply will not utilize all of the functionality of the blender, and then they decide to go for a cheaper and simpler machine. These “impulse orders” will be sent back to Vitamix, and these units often were never even turned on.
3. Live demonstration units
The demonstrators use a significant number of the machines during roadshows, some for demonstrating the blender operation process and some for displays. The ones that are used for display usually are never even turned on, while those that are used for demonstrations only run a small number of cycles. However, these machines also need to be sold, and they are in perfect order to be utilized. So, this category also fills the stock for reconditioning candidates.
How are these Vitamix units reconditioned?
Reconditioning Process
There is a strict process every reconditioning candidate blender must go through. First, the machines are tested and re-inspected by trained technicians using a 17-step inspection process. Then, this reconditioning process is applied to the base unit and blade assembly only. All of the other blender parts and accessories will be replaced by BRAND NEW items.
The inspectors will keep only the machines that have “like new” base units and blades. Any technical faults with the motor, drive system, control panel, or obvious exterior issues will exclude the machine from any further refurbishing.
1. Base unit
Only base unit with a “like new” appearance, which was manufactured less than 5 years ago (according to the base unit date stamp), are allowed in the reconditioning process. To qualify, these base units must also be free of noticeable scratches, chips, or other appearance issues. All base unit rubber feet must be in place and without visible wear signs. The centering pad on the top of the unit base must be free of visual wear or scratches; otherwise, it will be replaced with a brand-new one. The inspection of the base unit is finalized with a check for motor functionality with technical devices. It will be run 3 times.
2. Control Panel
The control panel must look new, without scrapes or any other marks. Likewise, the Pulse, On/Off switches, and dial knob must be clean, fully functional, and without any scratches or visible marks.
3. Blade
To be qualified for the refurbishing process, the blade date stamp must indicate that it was manufactured less than 1 year ago. Any blade with wear signs, any indication of rust or damage, or assembly rotation problem will be ruled out and replaced by a brand new blade. All blades that get through the re-inspection procedure at this stage will be high-temperature sanitized and fitted in a new container.
4. Brand New Accessories
All Vitamix refurbished/reconditioned machines include the following brand-new accessories:
- Premium quality Tritan copolyester 64 oz. high profile or 48 oz. low profile (depending on model) container;
- Custom tamper suitable for the container type;
- Rubber lid and plug;
- Cookbooks (depending on model).
Warranty and Customer Service
All of the reconditioned Vitamix models usually come with a 5‑year FULL WARRANTY, compared to the typical 7 years for the majority of original models. The Full warranty covers all parts, performance, repair labor (when needed), and shipping both ways. The reconditioned model’s 5‑year warranty does not mean that the life expectancy is shorter on average than for the original models. Vitamix blenders are famous for their durability, and a 5‑year warranty for refurbished models just reflects the lower selling price. An extra 3‑year Extended Warranty is also available for Certified Refurbished machines if the extended warranty is paid for at the same time as the machine is purchased.
Vitamix customer service is the best in the industry and is always ready to resolve any issues. The refurbished machine also offers a risk-free, 30-day money-back guarantee if customers are not completely satisfied with the product. This all confirms the true high quality of the certified conditioned machines and the negligible difference between the refurbished and the original models.
Would you like more information about Vitamix models? Check our article Which Vitamix to Buy? — Vitamix Models Explained.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn an affiliate commission for purchases you make when using the links on this page.
Reconditioned Classic Product Line
Vitamix manufactures 2 Product Lines – Classic, including Exprorian E310 and E320 Blenders, C–Series and G‑Series, and the Smart System Series. The Space Saving Product Line was discontinued at the end of 2019.
Reconditioned Explorian Series Blenders
The Reconditioned Vitamix Explorian Blenders are represented only by the E320 model, which combines the design and technical characteristics of C- series and G‑series machines.
The blenders have the following features:
- 2.2HP motor and C‑series and Ascent series fusion base unit;
- Minimalistic control panel with 10-speed dial knob, Pulse, and Stat/Stop switches;
- 64 oz. low profile wide bottom temperature and stress-resistant Tritan copolyester container with permanently inbuilt 4” blunt blades system;
- Custom-built tamper;
- Cookbook and user manual;
- With size 11” x 8” x 18” just fits under standard kitchen cabinets;
- 3 years Full warranty.
The E320 is the budget and cheapest model of the Vitamix, which is also reflected in the unusually short Vitamix blender warranty. Nevertheless, it does affect the life expectancy of the blender. Vitamix Explorian E320 is as durable and well-built as any other Vitamix blender.
The Vitamix Explorian E320 Blender is available at 20%-30% less expensive than the E310 model.
Reconditioned C‑Series
The C‑Series comprise 5 models, while some currently available in various packages. However, within the C‑Series, there are 4 major Certified Reconditioned models Standard 5200, Standard programs, 3‑Speed Turbo, 5300, and 6500.
The Certified Reconditioned Vitamix 5200 Standard Blenders
These blenders include machines with the label Vitamix 5200 Standard and are available in black, red, white, platinum, or brushed stainless colors.
The Certified Reconditioned Standard Vitamix product line features a 2HP (1380 watt) motor and a control panel, which is equipped with an On/Off switch, a Variable/High switch, and a 10 variable speed dial knob. The package will always come with 64 oz containers regardless of the original model’s size container (some original models come with 48 oz containers). The Certified Reconditioned Standard Vitamix set will contain:
2HP motor base unit with 10-speed variable knob control panel;
- 64 oz. container with inbuilt 3‑inches blades;
- Rubber lid and plug;
- Custom size tamper for high profile 64oz. container;
- Instructional DVD;
- Recipe book;
- With dimensions 8.75” x 7.25” x 20.5”, it does not fit under the standard kitchen cabinet;
- 5 years Full Warranty.
The Vitamix 5200 Certified Reconditioned Standard package will not include the getting started guide or the extra containers and accessories that the original models included.
The price for a reconditioned standard model is usually available at 15%- 25% cheaper than the original model. Moreover, during the promotional time, the consumer can save even more money.
2. Certified Refurbished Standard Programs Blenders
The Certified Reconditioned Standard Programs blenders are comprised of models with labels — Professional Series 500, 6500, and Total Nutrition Center 3 (TNC 3) – and come in a selection of black, brushed stainless, platinum, red, and white colors.
These blenders come with a 2HP (1380 watt) motor, a 64 oz. high-profile container and a control panel that features not only the standard on/off, pulse levers, and 10 variable speed dial knobs but also 3 pre-set programs (Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, and Hot Soups).
The Certified Reconditioned Standard Programs Vitamix set includes:
- 2HP base unit with pulse function and dial knob featuring the 10 speeds and 3 pre-set programs;
- 64 oz. container with inbuilt 3‑inches blades;
- Rubber lid and plug;
- Custom Tamper;
- Instructional DVD;
- Cookbook (may include spiral-bound copies of Savor or 3‑ring easel-style Create);
- With sizes 8.75” x 7.25” x 20.5”, it will not fit under the standard kitchen cabinet;
- 5 years Full Warranty.
The set will not include the getting started guide.
The price for Vitamix Standard Program blenders normally costs up to 35%-40% cheaper compared to the original models. This is quite a bargain considering the quality of reconditioned models.
Certified Reconditioned Classic 3‑Speed Turbo models
This machine features C‑series models that have a 2 HP (1380 watt) motor and 64 oz. containers. The distinguishing characteristic of these models is the control panel that has only two (2) or Three (3) speeds (Low, High or Low, Med, High) instead of 10 variable speeds. However, unlike in 5200, it has a Pulse switch.
The Certified Reconditioned 2‑Speed or3-Speed Turbo models set includes:
- 2HP base unit with the 3‑speed dial knob, Pulse, and On/Off levers control panel;
- 64 oz. high profile and narrow bottom premium quality BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester container with 3” permanently inbuilt blades;
- Custom tamper designed for high profile 64 oz. pitcher;
- Cookbook;
- 5 years Warranty;
- It does not fit under the kitchen cabinets with the following sizes 75” x 7.25” x 20.5”.
These models come without the getting started guide and the instructional DVD.
Certified Refurbished 2‑Speed or 3‑Speed Turbo Vitamix costs about $300 via the manufacturer’s website and Amazon, and both offer free shipping. In addition, the machine is often available on special offers and could be a good bargain for consumers who are looking for a cheaper Vitamix machine.
Certified Refurbished Vitamix 5300
Vitamix 5300 Certified Reconditioned model features a 2.2 HP (1440 watt) motor, 64 oz. low profile container with a 4‑inch inbuilt blade and control panel with pulse function and 10 variable speed dial knob.
Certified Reconditioned 5300 models set includes:
- 2HP motor base unit and control panel with 10 variable speed dial knobs and pulse function;
- 64 oz. low profile wide bottom premium quality BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester container with a bigger 4‑inch inbuilt blade;
- Custom tamper designed for low profile container;
- Getting Started Guide with recipes;
- 5 years Full Warranty;
- With dimensions 8.75” x 7.25” x 17.25”, it fits under a standard kitchen cabinet.
These models come without a separate cookbook and instructional DVD, but the Getting Started Guide includes over 100 Vitamix recipes.
Vitamix 5300 Certified Refurbished is usually sold at a very attractive price of up to 20% less than the new model. Thus, it is a good bargain for a customer on a tight budget but one who is looking for a commercial-type blender.
Reconditioned Classic G‑series
The Vitamix G‑series product line includes only 3 models: Vitamix 7500, and Professional Series 750.
These models feature the machines with a 2.2HP (1440 watt) motor, low-profile 64 oz. wide bottom premium quality Tritan copolyester container and inbuilt 4‑inch blade. The 7500 and Professional 750 models come with Start/Stop, Pulse toggle, 10 variable speed dial knob, and/or pre-programmed settings (Professional Series 750 only), while the 780 model has a digital touch control panel.
Certified Reconditioned Next Generation Vitamix Blenders
The Vitamix 7500 model features the control panel, which has Start/Stop, a Pulse switch, and 10 variable speed dial knobs. However, it is not equipped with any pre-programmed setting.
Certified Reconditioned Next Generation set includes:
- 2HP (1641 watt) motor base unit with 10-speed dial knob;
- 64 oz. wide bottom container with lid and plug;
- Custom tamper for low profile container;
- Getting started guide;
- Instructional DVD;
- Cookbook;
- 5 years Full Warranty;
- With 17.5” x 9.4” x 7.7” dimensions, it fits under the kitchen cabinet.
Vitamix 7500 Certified Refurbished Next Generation machines are usually available at 25%-35% cheaper than the new models from the manufacturer’s website and most popular retailers.
Certified Refurbished Classic Professional Series 750 Blender
The Vitamix Professional 750 machine is equipped with a control panel that has Start/Stop, Pulse switch, and knob dial that regulates 10 variable speeds and 5 pre-programmed settings (Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, Hot Soups, Purees, and Clean).
The Certified Reconditioned, Next Generations Programs set, includes the following parts and accessories:
- Base unit with 2.2 HP motor and 10 speed and 5 pre-sets control panel;
- 64 oz. container;
- Rubber lid and plug;
- Custom tamper for low profile 64 oz. containers;
- Getting Started Guide;
- Create a recipe book;
- 5 years Full Warranty;
- Fits under the kitchen cabinet with 17.25” x 9.4” x 7.7” dimensions.
Vitamix Professional 750 Certified Refurbished Next Generation Programs blenders are also available to buy via the manufacturer’s website and other retailers’ websites with a discount of 15%-20% to the original price. This model is very popular and rarely available, heavily discounted.
Certified Refurbished Vitamix 780 Blender
This is the digital display blender represented by Vitamix 780 machine that comes with an upgraded 2.2HP motor, base unit and airflow system, low profile container, 10 variable speeds, and 5 pre-set (Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, Hot Soups, Purees, and Clean) programs.
The blender is equipped with the latest sensitive modern touch control panel and has a sleek modern look; its tap buttons are activated with the touch. It also includes The Introduction to High-Performance Blending Cookbook.
The Certified Refurbished Vitamix 780 set includes the following parts and accessories:
- the motor has 2.2HP at the peak output power
- low-profile Tritan copolyester 64-oz. capacity container
- Custom tamper designed for low profile container;
- Cookbook;
- User Manual;
- 5 years Full Warranty;
- Fits under standard kitchen cabinet ‑17.25” x 9.4” x 7.7”.
Vitamix 780 Certified Refurbished blenders are available from the manufacturer’s website and on Amazon at a heavily discounted price to the original model.
Reconditioned S‑series
The Certified Reconditioned Vitamix S‑series Personal Blender product line includes only two blenders – S30 and S55. The original models have 3 different S‑series models. These machines’ signature features are (1) the removable blade assembly that is interchangeable between two containers and (2) the two containers, one of which has a bullet-type design and could be taken outside with a to-go lid while another one is an upright pitcher with vented lid and suitable for hot liquids and processing thick mixtures. In addition, the S30 model is equipped with 10 variable speeds and a pulse feature control panel, while S55 has additional 4 pre-set programs.
The Certified Reconditioned Vitamix S‑series Personal Blender package includes the following parts and accessories:
- 790 watts Motor Base;
- 40-ounce Container with 2 parts vented lid;
- 20-ounce Container with travel lid;
- Removable Blade assembly;
- Custom-designed tamper for use with 40 oz. container;
- Cookbook.
Both S30 and S55 Certified Reconditioned come with 5 years full warranty.
Currently, Vitamix S‑series Personal Certified Reconditioned Blenders are available only from the Amazon website. The S30 model has a reasonable discount and costs $249 compared to the $400 original one. Likewise, the S55 model has a rather moderate discount for a refurbished model and is sold 15%-25% cheaper than the original models.
Refurbished Smart System Product Line Blenders
The Reconditioned Smart System Blenders are represented by the A2300, 2500, A3300, A3500, and budget Venturist V1200 models. This product line was released on 26 December 2016; it is the most recent, innovative, and advanced Vitamix blender edition.
The Smart System Series Blenders have the following similar features:
- 2.2HP motor while new base unit design and cooling systems that make these machines quietest among all other Vitamix models;
- 64 oz. the low wide bottom and low profile copolyester containers with 4‑inch blades and clear lids;
- Self-detect container system that recognizes which type of container (64 oz., 48 oz., 20 oz., or 8 oz.) you placed on the top of the base unit and adjusted the blending time and programs for the appropriate container;
- Wireless Bluetooth Smart System Vitamix Blender connection to the smartphone app and smart scale for using the 500+ recipes;
- Ten (10) years warranty.
Certified Refurbished Vitamix Ascent A2300/2500
Vitamix A2300 and A2500 are the economy Ascent models. They are equipped with a simple control that features:
- Ten (10) variable speeds dial knob, the Pulse, and Start/Stop switches;
- Digital timer which displays up/downtime when blender runs variable-speed or pre-set programs;
The A2500 model comes with an additional 3 pre-set programs (Smoothies, Frozen Dessert, and Hot Soup), while the A2300 model has only variable speeds and pulse mode.
Vitamix’s website offers reconditioned models starting from $399, while Amazon usually has lower prices.
Certified Reconditioned Vitamix Ascent A3300 and A3500
The Vitamix Ascent A3300 and A3500 blenders are the premium Smart System Vitamix models that feature:
- State-of-the-art digital touchscreen control panel;
- Ten (10) variable speeds digital dial knob, capacitive touchscreen pulse, and On/Off controls;
- Capacitive programmable timer controls;
The A3500 blender comes with five (5) pre-programmed settings (Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, Hot Soups, Dips/Spreads, and Self-Cleaning), while A3300 blenders do not have any.
The A3300 and A3500 are premium Vitamix models and have one of the highest Vitamix machine price tags, the certified reconditioned models are not often available, but they are usually discounted by 15%-25% to the original blender’s price.
[i2pc show_title=“true” title=“Pros & Cons” show_button=“false” pros_title=“Pros” cons_title=“Cons” ][i2pros]Well-built and easy to clean.
Amazing performance, beautiful design.
The cost is less than A3500.
[i2pc show_title=“true” title=“Pros & Cons” show_button=“false” pros_title=“Pros” cons_title=“Cons” ][i2pros]Well-built and easy to clean.
Amazing performance, beautiful design.
The cost is less than A3500.
Comes with advanced series-only features like a touch screen.[/i2pros][i2cons]There are no presets available directly on the controls.
It is a premium blender and commands an equally premium price.
There is no program presets.
A 64oz container is too much for a small amount of food.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Certified Reconditioned Venturist V1200 Blender
Vitamix Venturist V1200 is the budget Vitamix Ascent Product Line Blender with a smart system. It features self-detect containers, wireless connectivity, and smart technology parameters. However, it has a unique base unit design (not similar to A2500 and A3500 machines) and a control panel that is a combination of A2300 and A3300 blenders control panels with the following unique features:
- Physical dial knob (similar to Classic models like Vitamix Pro 750), Pulse, and On/Off switches;
- Digital programmable timer (similar to Ascent A3500 model);
The reconditioned models are available from the Vitamix website and
Amazon.
Summary
The Vitamix reconditioning procedure includes a rigorous selection and qualifying process, and the models that reach customers are undoubtedly qualified to have “like new” conditions. There is no performance or visual differences between the original and refurbished models. All the functionality, technical parameters, and included accessories are the same as the original models. Some units come in the original full-color box, while others come in a brown box with printed Vitamix logos. All blenders are properly packaged, fitted in custom-cut Styrofoam, and have no sign on the unit or package that it is a reconditioned model.
Since the manufacturer offers reconditioned models for all its product lines, those Vitamix reconditioned models that have a more attractive price tag, no doubt, are an excellent option for customers who are on a tight budget but are looking for a quality, high-performance blender.
To better understand Vitamix models, check out the article Which Vitamix to Buy? — Vitamix Models Explained.
I have a Vitamix blender that I bought at a home show in my area 22 years ago. The motor is still powerful. However the variable speed control quit working about 2 years ago. I would like to have this machine reconditioned. What number would I call for that. It’s still a good operable machine.
When will I be reimbursed with new blades for my 5200 vitamix machine I purchased in 2009?..I filled out the form but have not received the blades yet…I really need this machine because it is the best machine ever..Hope to hear from you soon..Love,
Hi Doris,
The warranty for Vitamix 5200 machine is 7 years, so it has expired in 2015 if you purchased yours in 2009. Currently, your machine is not covered with warranty/ However, you still able to order the new blades with manufacture but you will need to pay for them. The best way to order a new part is to contact Vitamix customer service on 0800 5870 019.