5 Things to Look for in an HVAC Warranty

A new heating and cooling system is a large investment in your home or office space. As you compare different units it’s important to pay as much attention to the warranties as you would the costs and different features. If something goes wrong within a few weeks or a few years after, a good HVAC warranty will help lower the out-of-pocket repair expenses and minimize your frustration during a heating or cooling crisis.

HVAC Warranty Guide

When purchasing and understanding HVAC systems, knowing what is included in the warranties is important. Here are five things to look for and how they can affect your HVAC unit down the line.

Warranty Term

A warranty’s term refers to its duration. Good HVAC manufacturers stand behind their products for more than a couple of years, which is important with systems that are supposed to last up to 20 years or longer. Because an HVAC repair can be costly, it is wise to look for warranties that have the longest terms. Keep in mind: units with lifetime warranties may not cover the cost of labor, or may only cover labor-related expenses during the first year.

HVAC Parts Warranties 

Warranties sometimes have varying timeframes for different aspects of an HVAC unit, such as an air conditioning compressor, furnace heat exchanger, parts, and labor. A heat exchanger, for example, might have a 20-year warranty, while other parts might have a 10-year warranty. Warranties may also vary depending on the lifespan of the HVAC unit. As you work with a contractor, learn if the contracting company or manufacturer has a warranty-processing fee. This is a fee that some charge to handle the warranty-related paperwork even when the replacement parts are covered.

Extended HVAC Warranty

Manufacturers and dealers often offer extended warranties that add 5 to 10 years to parts or labor coverage. Be cautious if a sales representative seems pushy about purchasing this type of warranty, as it may be indicative of the system’s quality. In addition, learn all the details related to the extended warranty, such as:

• When the warranty service is available
• How long you’ll have to wait for a technician to fix the HVAC system, especially during the busiest times of the year
• The amount of time the contractor has been in business

How to Void the Warranty

A simple mistake could void an entire warranty. Examples include:

• Not hiring a certified licensed contractor to install the unit or make repairs
• Not registering the HVAC system and warranty with the manufacturer in the required amount of time
• Not using approved replacement parts
• Failing to schedule annual professional maintenance

Installation Warranty

In addition to a manufacturer standing behind its products, an HVAC contractor should stand behind the services it offers. In addition to providing you with the manufacturer’s warranty, the contractor offers protection in the event that an HVAC unit receives accidental damage during the installation process or if problems develop later because of an installation-related issue. While a good contractor provides a written 100 percent money-back guarantee on their installation work, it’s also important for you to ask questions you may have along the way.

HVAC Services in Beaverton

An HVAC warranty should give you peace of mind and assurance that a manufacturer has your back if something goes wrong with the appliance. Never hesitate to take your time to comb through the fine details of a warranty and ask questions if something doesn’t make sense. A reputable HVAC contractor will insist that you do. 

Whether you’re looking for residential or commercial services, we can help you find the best deal and warranty for your project. Contact us to learn more about our HVAC services available in the Beaverton area, we’re just a phone call away.

 

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5 Things Your HVAC Warranty Should Cover