Do you know much time is left on your HVAC warranty? What does it cover? Probably not. Chances are the paperwork got filed away when your new unit was installed and won’t be given a second thought until knock on wood, you need it.
While the HVAC systems Jack Hall Plumbing & Heating installs for our customers are extremely reliable, sometimes things do go sideways. That’s why understanding how different types of warranties work and your responsibilities related to keeping them valid can mean the difference between a simple fix and a shocking repair bill.
Types of HVAC Warranties
In a nutshell, an HVAC warranty means the manufacturer will cover necessary repairs and replacements within a specific timeframe. It’s important to realize that different companies offer various types of warranty coverage. No matter what brand you decide to buy, take some time to learn what’s included in your warranty and weigh the value of additional types of coverage.
Here are the most commonly used HVAC warranties:
Manufacturer’s Warranty: This is the standard warranty that comes with most HVAC purchases. Manufacturer’s warranties can cover parts for up to 10 years. However, because manufacturers aren’t in the HVAC installation or repair business, these warranties only pay for defective parts, not labor costs.
Extended Warranty: Because HVAC manufacturer warranties don’t cover labor and specific parts, an extended warranty can offer additional protection that includes labor, parts, or both.
Parts and Labor Warranty: Manufacturers don’t make decisions about who is going to repair your HVAC system so most offer a specific “only parts” warranty. The name tells you that these don’t include labor or installation, but you can buy a “parts and labor” warranty to cover HVAC repair work from a variety of different vendors.
Don’t Void Your Warranty!
Even if you have full warranty coverage on an HVAC system, there are conditions in the fine print that could potentially invalidate it.
Failing to register your HVAC: Units must be registered with the manufacturer within a specific time limit. Generally, this time frame is within 60 days of installation, and if the time limit elapses without registration, you could be ineligible for the manufacturer’s warranty benefits.
Improper installation: If a customer uses a company for installation that makes a critical mistake and damages the unit, warranty coverage is voided. This means you’re stuck paying for the total cost of repairs as well as any other future problems. That’s why it’s important to make sure you choose a reputable, experienced HVAC company.
Lack of maintenance, regular service: If you cannot prove you’ve had regular maintenance and service done on your unit, the manufacturer might consider it void. It doesn’t happen often and proof of service is defined very loosely, but save your paperwork after HVAC service just to make sure you have everything you need to keep your warranty valid.
Service Protection Plans are a Smart Option
Because modern HVAC units are so well designed and constructed, most of the time when there’s a problem it stems from a lack of proper maintenance. That’s where the value of service protection plans (HVAC Service Protection Plans: 9 Things You Should Know!) comes into play.
Most HVAC manufacturers require customers to stick to a maintenance schedule to remain eligible for warranty coverage. But in addition to warranty concerns, regular maintenance and inspections are the key to getting the most out of your HVAC unit.
Jack Hall’s HVAC Service Protection Plan protects you from unexpected breakdowns and system problems. Our scheduled inspections look at filters, refrigerant levels, and check for air leaks. This way our experienced techs can identify potential problems before they become catastrophic. Jack Hall’s preventive maintenance plans also boost your HVAC unit’s efficiency, extend the life of components, reduce the utility bill, and ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.
To learn more about Jack Hall Plumbing & Heating HVAC product warranties and our Silver and Gold Service Protection plans, contact us today. We are the local experts and our team is ready to tackle your HVAC needs in Queensbury, Glens Falls, Lake George, Saratoga Springs and across the North Country.