When you invest in a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for your home, you’re making a significant purchase that’s critical to your family’s comfort. While the initial cost is a factor, what truly protects your investment is a solid warranty. But HVAC warranties can be complex and confusing. What’s covered? What’s not? And what do you have to do to keep it valid?
At Extreme Heating and AC in Wolfforth, we believe that an informed customer is a satisfied customer. We’re here to help you demystify HVAC warranties, ensuring you protect your investment and avoid the stress of unexpected repair bills down the road.
The Two Main Types of HVAC Warranties
When you purchase a new HVAC system, you’ll encounter two primary types of warranties:
- Manufacturer’s Warranty (Parts Only): This is the standard warranty that comes with the equipment itself. It guarantees that the manufacturer will replace any component that fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship within a specified period, typically 5 to 10 years. This warranty covers the cost of the part but almost never the cost of the labor to install it.
- Labor Warranty: This is a separate warranty provided by the HVAC company that installs your system. It covers the cost of the labor required to repair or replace parts during a covered period. While some companies offer a short, one-year labor warranty, it is often a good idea to purchase an extended labor warranty, which can be an excellent insurance policy against labor costs that can run into the hundreds of dollars for a single repair.
What’s Covered and What Isn’t?
Understanding the fine print of your warranty is crucial. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can generally expect:
Typically Covered:
- Major Components: Your system’s compressor, coils, fan motors, and heat exchanger are almost always covered against manufacturer defects.
- Internal Parts: Other internal components that fail due to a defect are usually included.
What’s NOT Covered:
- Labor Costs: As mentioned above, a manufacturer’s warranty does not cover labor. This is the most common surprise for homeowners who think their entire repair is free.
- Normal Wear and Tear: Items like air filters, belts, and fuses are considered maintenance items and are not covered by any warranty.
- Damage from Neglect: This is the most important exclusion. Warranties are almost always voided if the system fails due to a lack of proper maintenance, such as not changing filters or not having the system professionally serviced.
- Damage from Improper Installation: If the system was not installed by a qualified professional, the manufacturer’s warranty may be void. This is why it’s crucial to choose a reputable installer.
- Refrigerant Leaks: Many warranties do not cover the cost of refrigerant if your system develops a leak.
The Crucial Role of Regular Maintenance
This is the most critical takeaway about HVAC warranties. Almost all manufacturer warranties require annual professional maintenance to remain valid. Skipping your yearly tune-up can void your warranty, leaving you completely exposed to the cost of a major repair.
A professional maintenance plan with a company like Extreme Heating and AC is not just about keeping your system running smoothly—it’s about protecting your investment. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive inspection, clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and identify potential issues before they become expensive problems. This service provides the documented proof you need to keep your warranty in good standing and ensures your system operates efficiently, especially during the extreme temperatures we experience here in Lubbock.
Protect Your System with Extreme Heating and AC
At Extreme Heating and AC, we don’t just install and repair HVAC systems; we help you understand how to care for them for the long haul. We’ll walk you through your warranty details, help you set up a customized maintenance plan, and ensure your system is properly installed from day one.
Don’t let a voided warranty turn a minor repair into a major expense. Contact Extreme Heating and AC today to schedule a professional maintenance service or to get a quote on a new, energy-efficient system. We’re here to give you peace of mind and keep your home comfortable year-round.
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