Honeywell Refuse to honor Warranty Astatula Florida

I purchased a honeywell whole house dehumidifier a year and a half ago. I installed it myself as it just plugs into a regular outlet and requires 10 min worth of duct work. It stopped working and the warranty info says to call and 800 number to get a return authorization. So after waiting 45 mins I get to speak to someone in India who tells me that I have to return it to the contractor who installed it. I say I did it myself I just want to send it in for repair or replacement. He says no I can't do that and have to find a contractor to return it on my behalf. I kept telling him there is no contractor, and the warranty does not say anything about being void if not returned via a contractor or if the homeowner installs the unit themselves. I speak to a supervisor. Same answer, I have to spend money getting a contractor to return it. Basically after 20 mins of arguing and I'm not getting anywhere. My only choice would be small claims court to get back the $1800 I paid for this unit. I will never buy another one of their products again. Getting hold of someone is next to impossible and they don't honor the warranty. Trying to make up things and complicate it in order to screw the customers.