If you’re in the market for a new furnace or boiler, one important element to consider (which many homeowners don’t know) is how to get the most of your equipment warranty. In the event your HVAC system has a problem, your warranty will come into play.

Most heating and cooling equipment comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. The lifespan of the warranty will depend on when you purchased the equipment and which brand furnace, boiler or central air conditioning unit you bought. Regardless of the type of warranty that you have, it’s important that you understand the limitations of your warranty and that you work to make the most of it.

The Types of HVAC Warranties

Generally speaking, there are three types of HVAC warranties:

  • Manufacturer’s Warranty — Most of the HVAC appliances that you purchase will come with a manufacturer’s warranty. This is a warranty that is provided by the brand itself, so the coverage that you receive will vary based on the brand that you decide on for your furnace, boiler or central air conditioner.
  • Extended Warranty — An extended warranty is an optional warranty that you can purchase to extend the original manufacturer’s warranty. Extended warranties are available for most types of HVAC equipment.
  • Installation Warranty — An installation warranty is a warranty that provides you coverage for the work that was done to install the HVAC equipment. Installation warranties are available from the contractor that you use to install the equipment.

What to Look for in an HVAC Warranty

When you are selecting HVAC equipment for your home, you will want to compare warranty information between brands in order to decide on the best possible option for you. Whether you are trying to decide which brand offers the best manufacturer’s warranty or you are choosing to purchase an extended warranty, you will want to consider the following factors:

The Warranty Term — This is the amount of time that the warranty will be valid. HVAC equipment is designed to last for decades, so you will want a warranty that provides you coverage for more than just a few months or even a few years.

Specific Parts Warranties — Within the general warranty, there may be warranty terms for specific parts. The duration of these warranties is typically between 10 and 20 years.

Warranty Voids — Most warranties will outline specific actions that will void the agreement. It is important to be aware of these limitations.

Heating and Cooling Warranty Coverage

Warranty coverage for heating and cooling equipment covers two basic components of your equipment: Workmanship and parts. Workmanship refers to the work that was done in the factory on the assembly line in order to produce the equipment. If a mistake was made during the production process that results in faulty equipment during the duration of your warranty, the warranty will cover the cost of the repair or replacement. The parts portion of the warranty refers to the individual parts of the heating and cooling equipment. If the parts fail to work when the HVAC system has been maintained and is being used properly, then the warranty will cover the repair or replacement of those parts.

How to Void Your HVAC Warranty

Every warranty, regardless of its type, has limits on it. Many people inadvertently void their warranties by making simple mistakes, so it’s important to be aware of how you might void your HVAC warranty. Here are some common errors that may void your warranty:

Working with an irresponsible contractor. If your HVAC equipment is not installed properly, it may void the manufacturer’s warranty. You want to make sure that you hire a reputable company that has a reputation for high-quality work.

Forgetting to have regular maintenance performed. If your HVAC equipment is not maintained properly, the warranty may become void. Always schedule annual maintenance for your equipment.

Depending on the type of warranty that you have for your heating and cooling equipment, you may find that repairs or replacements — as well as parts and labor — are covered under the warranty. In order to make the most out of this protection, you will want to invest in preventative maintenance for your HVAC system.

At HomeWorks Energy, we offer a Premier Maintenance Package that will keep your HVAC equipment in its best working condition. This type of continual, long-term maintenance will prevent you from voiding your manufacturer’s warranty and will allow you to enjoy a comfortable home for the months and years ahead.

For more information on how we can help you maintain your equipment and make the most out of your HVAC warranty, contact us today.