Like other household appliances, your HVAC system can break down. Something could go wrong even when you keep up with a maintenance schedule. That something could occur when costs have become more than you can pay. A home warranty can help ease the financial strain.
Why Your Home Warranty Should Cover the HVAC System
A home warranty protects you from unnecessary financial strain due to an unexpected breakdown. Generally, repairing your HVAC system could cost hundreds of dollars for one appointment.
Replacement costs can accelerate into thousands of dollars. A home warranty gives you peace of mind even for unexpected breakdowns. Further, qualified, approved HVAC specialists will come to your home, ensuring the issue gets fixed correctly.
Importance of Having the Right Warranty Plan
A malfunctioning HVAC system can lead to you paying a lot for a repair or replacement. Choosing a home warranty plan that covers your unit prevents you from paying thousands of dollars out-of-pocket.
Some warranties cover the cost of repairing or replacing major components. Also, your home warranty may offer protection against accidental damage or defective materials. Coverage may begin with fixing the problem.
Otherwise, you may receive help in offsetting costs to replace the complete system. Your home warranty policy should outline the dollar limits.
What Types of HVAC Systems Are Covered?
There are many types of HVAC systems on the market that home warranties cover:
- Built-in wall units
- Geothermal systems
- Evaporative coolers
- Centrally ducted systems
- Water-source systems
Could the Warranty Company Deny Your Claim?
You can expect routine wear and tear with regular use of any appliance. However, coverage under a home warranty may hinge upon whether the unit has gotten correctly serviced. Maintenance of your HVAC system is key to getting a claim approved.
Scheduling service appointments helps ensure your unit operates properly. Most HVAC specialists recommend changing air filters every three months. The time of year determines what happens during a maintenance check:
- Clean condensers and evaporator coils
- Inspect ducts for debris, mold or dust
- Ensure the fan motor works properly
- Check unit for leaks
- Inspect heating elements
- Clear drain lines
- Lubricate bearings and other moving parts
- Check thermostat controls
The actual maintenance performed by your HVAC expert depends on your unit’s model and what gets included in the preventative maintenance contract.
Possible Limitations to Home Warranty Coverage
While a home warranty can cover many parts of your HVAC system, some limitations may exist. In particular, not all air conditioning units qualify for warranty coverage with your other household appliances.
For example, a home warranty will not cover the following air conditioning units:
- Stand-alone units
- Unmaintained units
- Units that stop working properly for reasons other than everyday use
Avoid sticker shock from repair costs by understanding what is and is not covered. An HVAC expert can help you gain this knowledge, if necessary.
Difference Between a Home Warranty and a Manufacturer’s Warranty
If your home warranty does not cover your HVAC system, you might be able to use the agreement from the manufacturer. As mentioned above, a home warranty may cover a broad range of HVAC systems and additional appliances in your house.
The home warranty is transferable to the new owner if you sell your house.
On the other hand, a warranty from the manufacturer usually gets offered when you buy a new HVAC system or other household devices. Most only last for one year and only cover the new purchase. If you sell your home with the appliance, you cannot transfer the warranty to the new owner.
Therefore, if your HVAC system is less than one year old and starts malfunctioning, you may have a claim with the manufacturer. In the event that the manufacturer does not extend coverage, your home warranty remains an option to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Count of Reliable Services for Your HVAC System
When you choose a reliable heating and cooling company like Weather Masters Corp., you can expect exceptional service. We offer residents of Frederick and the surrounding area professional, trusted services throughout the year. Count on us for ductwork, boiler repair and indoor air quality assessments in addition to our cooling and heating services. Our experts can help you get the service you need under a home warranty contract. Ensure the proper operation of your HVAC system by scheduling a service call today.
