The provisions of your HVAC warranty can be as significant as the manufacturer and model of the unit you select. Installing a new furnace or central air conditioner (or both) is a major investment you’ll be relying on for many years to come. Making sure it comes with comprehensive HVAC warranty terms that protect that investment and keep your home consistently comfortable and efficient is an important part of an informed buying decision. Here are common provisions of an HVAC warranty to be aware of:
Manufacturer’s Warranty
Provided by the manufacturer of the furnace or AC, this coverage typically provides for replacement of parts that may fail or issues relating to poor workmanship at the factory. It usually doesn’t cover labor costs, however.
- The coverage period may also vary according to the specific part involved. While less-critical parts may be covered for 10 years, high-value components — for example, the furnace heat exchanger and the AC compressor — are often covered for a more extended period (up to 20 years in some cases).
- A typical manufacturer’s warranty excludes coverage for issues such as improper installation, unauthorized replacement components, systems marketed by uncertified online sellers, DIY repairs, as well as damage from floods, fire, or vandalism.
- To ensure that you receive the manufacturer’s HVAC warranty, be sure you register the new unit with the HVAC contractor who sold it to you.
Installation Warranty
This policy is provided by your local HVAC contractor and covers any issues that might result from the installation of the new unit in your home. In most cases, this warranty provides coverage for 12 months following installation.
Extended Warranties
These long-term policies supplement coverage provided by the manufacturer’s HVAC warranty and the installation warranty. Extended policies typically add five to 10 years of some level of coverage for parts and labor. Often provided by third-party companies, most extended warranties impose a monthly premium to keep coverage in force and require that all work must be performed by contractors chosen by the insurer.
For more facts relating to coverage provided by an HVAC warranty, talk to the professionals at Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company.
