HVAC System Warranties for Major Brands: What You Need to Know

Your HVAC system is one of the most important appliances in your house and requires a sizable investment. When you are shopping for a new air conditioning system, you will need to take several factors into account, including capacity, energy efficiency, and reported reliability. Talk to your AC installer to learn about brands you can trust but remember to think about the warranty before you make your decision. Why? Your HVAC warranty gives you peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, it will be covered. How do you assess which system has the best HVAC warranty coverage?

What is Included in HVAC Warranty Coverage?

Warranties can differ, but generally, they cover various components and services. The typical warranty covers replacement for faulty parts, and often, labor costs for the repairs. Some warranties cover refrigerant leaks and refills, and warranties often cover electrical components like capacitors, sensors, and circuit boards, particularly if they fail because of a manufacturing defect. Some companies allow transference of the warranty if you sell the house, which can increase the home’s value, but you’ll need to ask the manufacturer. Certain things are excluded from coverage, like issues caused by improper installation, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Of course, your homeowner’s insurance will cover certain unforeseeable events, like natural disasters, and will apply to any appliances and systems in your home. If you feel like you need more coverage than the warranties offered by your HVAC manufacturer, you can always purchase a home warranty that covers many different systems and appliances, and you can customize your coverage to meet your needs.

What is the Typical Home Air Conditioner Warranty Period for Popular HVAC Brands

The length of the warranty can vary. A standard warranty usually covers basic parts and repairs for anywhere from one to 10 years. An air conditioner compressor warranty, a standalone warranty for this critical component, tends to last longer. Extended warranties last beyond the standard warranty, at an additional cost. Let’s look at the warranties of some brands with high-quality products and excellent warranties.

Trane: Generally, Trane provides a 10-year limited warranty that covers compressors, outdoor coils, and internal parts. For some systems, they also offer optional extended coverage.
Lennox: Their signature warranty covers parts for up to 10 years. The warranties vary depending on the model but some offer lifetime warranties for their compressors.
Carrier: Certain parts are covered by warranties that last for 10 years, and there are also options for extended support. Additionally, for some models they offer 20 year or lifetime limited warranties on heat exchangers and compressors.
Champion: They provide up to 10 years of total system protection, with no deductibles and no repair limitations. In some cases, they also offer lifetime limited warranties on compressors.
Rheem/Ruud: They provide 10 year limited parts warranties, with registration required, and some models have a lifetime limited warranty on heat exchangers.
Goodman: With registration, each system is entitled to a 10 year parts warranty. On some models, there is a limited unit replacement warranty, and they offer a lifetime heat exchanger and air conditioner compressor warranty on select models.

How to Maintain Your AC Warranty Coverage

In most cases, your first step will be to register your warranty. Then you will need to be especially vigilant about keeping up with inspections and maintenance, keeping meticulous paperwork to document your purchase and every service visit. Manufacturers can void your warranty if you haven’t kept up with AC maintenance. Further, if you don’t have the service performed by a professional, anything done incorrectly can also void the warranty. Consider this, though: neglecting maintenance can lead you to miss minor issues, which can then become expensive problems, which will not be covered if your warranty is voided. So, keeping up with maintenance is about more than maintaining warranty coverage. It’s the best way to keep your HVAC running efficiently and avoid the need to file a claim in the first place.

Understanding the Difference Between an Extended and Labor AC Warranty

Many times, a manufacturer’s warranty will not cover labor. However, you are likely to be offered a warranty by the company that installed your system, to cover problems caused by incorrect installation or service. An extended warranty from the manufacturer will sometimes cover labor, but that depends on the manufacturer. Often, an extended warranty has the same coverage as the original warranty, but for a longer period of time. Make sure that you are familiar with the manufacturer’s policies, including what is excluded from the warranty, before you buy an HVAC system.

How to File an Air Conditioner Warranty Claim

You will need to follow your manufacturer’s instructions for filing a warranty claim for your AC system. Generally, the most important thing to do is to have your records ready to present with your claim. This includes your model and serial numbers, proof of purchase, as well as all of your service and maintenance records for the time in which you’ve had your AC. Contact the manufacturer and determine the steps you need to take to submit your claim. This will probably involve filling out an online form or calling their support team. After providing all the necessary documentation, as well as details about your issue, you will probably be directed to schedule service with an authorized service provider. While you are working with the AC manufacturer, make sure to keep a record of all interactions and claim numbers, and don’t hesitate to contact them if there are delays or you have questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About a Home Air Conditioner Warranty

What components are usually covered under an air conditioner warranty? Usually, the warranty covers the compressor, evaporator and condenser coils, and factory installed parts like relays, fan motors, capacitors, and thermostats.
How long is the average air conditioner compressor warranty? Typically, compressors are covered for 10 years, though some companies offer 20 year or lifetime warranties on compressors.
Do I need to register my HVAC system for the warranty to be valid? Check with your manufacturer, but yes, this is often the case.
Can warranty coverage be voided? Yes, and in many cases, it is due to negligence on the part of the homeowner.
Is labor usually included in HVAC warranties? Unless specified, labor is not usually covered.

Questions About Your AC Residential Warranty? Need AC Service? Contact Best Value A/C and Heating

Whether you have questions about your existing AC and its warranty, your HVAC needs service, or you need a new HVAC, in Volusia and Flagler Counties, the best climate control installation and maintenance is done by Best Value A/C and Heating LLC. We install top-rated, energy-efficient heating and air systems, at competitive pricing. Not only will you pay less for your system, but you’ll also save up to 30 percent off of your electric bills on top of that. We provide installation service, repairs, or maintenance, and we offer emergency service 24/7, because we know things don’t only go wrong between 9 AM and 5 PM. Our locally-owned-and-operated, veteran-owned business is committed to integrity and excellent service, and we have an A+ BBB rating, as well as being a member of Angie’s List. We offer many specials and discounts, easy financing, and other offers, and our knowledgeable, friendly technicians have the tools and the experience to handle any repair or installation service the right way. Trust us to provide you with the top-name brands, and the kind of service that gives you peace of mind, knowing your home will stay cool and comfortable, even in the heat of summer. For more information, to schedule an appointment, or be pre-approved for financing, contact us through our website.

HVAC System Warranties for Major Brands