HVAC warranties provide important protection, but understanding what they actually cover helps set expectations.
Types of Warranties
Manufacturer parts warranty covers defective parts, typically 5-10 years. Premium equipment may include longer warranties.
Extended parts warranty can be purchased to extend coverage, sometimes to lifetime.
Compressor warranty is often longer than general parts (10 years or more) since the compressor is expensive.
Heat exchanger warranty on furnaces may be 20 years or even lifetime due to safety implications.
Labor warranty from the installing contractor covers installation workmanship, typically 1-2 years.
Extended labor warranty can be purchased for ongoing coverage.
What Warranties Typically Cover
- Defective parts that fail prematurely
- Manufacturing defects
- Component failures under normal use
Parts are usually covered regardless of cause during the warranty period.
What Warranties Typically Exclude
Labor after initial period. Even if parts are covered, you pay for the technician to install them.
Maintenance items. Filters, cleaning, adjustments, and tune-ups are not warranty work.
Damage from neglect. Failures caused by lack of maintenance may void coverage.
Installation issues. Problems caused by improper installation are not manufacturer defects.
Normal wear. Components that wear out under normal use may not be covered.
Acts of nature. Lightning, floods, and power surges are typically excluded.
Protecting Your Warranty
Register your equipment. Many warranties require registration within 60-90 days of installation. Unregistered equipment may have reduced coverage.
Keep documentation. Save purchase receipts, installation invoices, and registration confirmations.
Maintain regularly. Annual professional maintenance is often required to maintain warranty coverage. Keep records of service.
Use authorized service. Some warranties require repairs by authorized contractors. Check requirements before having others work on the system.
Labor Considerations
Parts warranties do not include labor. A failed part may be free, but you still pay $150-300+ for the service call and installation time.
Extended labor coverage bridges this gap. Consider the cost versus likely repair needs for your equipment type.
Reading the Fine Print
Warranty documents contain important details: - Coverage duration for different components - Registration requirements and deadlines - Maintenance requirements - Exclusions and limitations - Claim procedures
Read these before buying. Ask the contractor to explain anything unclear.
When Problems Arise
If you need warranty service: 1. Contact the installing contractor first 2. Have model/serial numbers and proof of purchase ready 3. Describe the problem clearly 4. Ask whether the repair is warranty-covered before work begins 5. Get documentation of warranty work performed
Beyond Warranties
Warranties cover defects, not all problems. For comprehensive protection, consider: - Maintenance plans for ongoing service - Extended warranty programs for longer coverage - Home warranty policies for broader protection
Understanding warranty limitations helps you make informed decisions about additional protection.