HVAC Warranty Essentials: 2025 Update
Virtually all HVAC systems include a warranty that covers parts and labor for a specified period to protect you against manufacturer defects. Understanding what’s covered by a heating and cooling system warranty can help you decide which system to buy and how to keep the warranty in force by properly maintaining your HVAC system.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- When you’re shopping for a heating or cooling system for your home, don’t forget to research warranties.
- An HVAC unit is a major home investment, and if something goes wrong, you want to be sure you’re protected.
- Whether you’re buying a furnace, a new air conditioning unit or a whole-house system, check the warranty, and talk to your contractor or vendor about what you can expect in the HVAC terms of service.
When you’re shopping for a new heating or cooling system for your home, don’t forget to research warranties. An HVAC unit is a major home investment, and if something goes wrong, you want to be sure you’re protected.
Whether you’re buying a furnace, a new air conditioning unit or a whole-house system, check the warranty, and talk to your contractor or vendor about what you can expect in the HVAC terms of service. Make sure you go with a provider whose coverage supports the level of investment you’re making.
When reviewing warranties keep the following in mind.
HVAC System Warranty Duration
Heating and cooling units can be costly to repair, so you’ll probably want to find the longest-term warranty available. Keep in mind that many HVAC service agreements have varying time frames for different parts. For example, 10 years for parts and 20 years for a heat exchanger is good.
Conditions for Use Covered by the Warranty
All warranties have conditions under which they are valid, which often relate back to who bought the unit. Some are void once the home changes ownership.
Many warranties also require the unit to be registered within 90 days of installation to be valid.
Things That Might Invalidate Your Warranty
Even a lifetime warranty can be voided if you don’t follow the rules. Many HVAC warranties require proof that the unit has been properly maintained with routine annual HVAC system maintenance — so make sure to schedule checkups and keep the paperwork somewhere safe.
Other warranties may be invalidated on day one if a certified contractor does not install the unit. Before you plan to install it yourself, make sure you read the fine print.
Labor Costs Not Covered by the Warranty
Even if you have a lifetime warranty, you may still get stuck with labor costs. Most warranties only cover labor for the first year, though some brands allow you to purchase extended HVAC labor warranties.
Protect yourself: The Sears Home Services Sears Protect Home Warranty Plan includes two free HVAC maintenance checks every year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule your HVAC repair now!
Rely on our skilled technicians to diagnose and repair your HVAC equipment, ensuring optimal comfort in your home.
Repair HVAC Resources
Discover how advanced technology boosts HVAC energy efficiency, helping you save on energy bills and improve home comfort with Sears Home Services.
Wondering about the price of a new oil furnace? Find out the cost at Sears Home Services.
Find out the cost of replacing a furnace and AC at Sears Home Services. Request a quote today!
Looking to replace your boiler? Discover the costs, factors, and savings tips with expert insights from Sears Home Services.
Glossary Terms
A capacitor in an AC unit is an electrical component that stores and releases electrical energy to help start the motor and stabilize the voltage during operation.
ENERGY STAR appliances are energy-efficient products that meet the strict energy efficiency specifications set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the U.S. Department of Energy. These appliances are designed to use less energy and water, leading to cost savings and a reduced environmental impact.
The 608 Certification, mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is required for HVAC technicians to legally handle refrigerants. It ensures technicians understand refrigerant types, environmental impact, and proper handling techniques.
A compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume, essential in various systems including refrigerators, air conditioners, and HVAC units for cooling and refrigeration processes.
Common Appliance Symptoms
The most common reasons your Amana dishwasher won't drain are a failed drain pump, faulty pump and motor assembly or a cracked drain hose.
The most common reasons your Kenmore Elite refrigerator stopped working are a locked compressor, damaged evaporator or a defective electronic control board.
The most common reasons your Maytag refrigerator stopped working are a locked compressor, damaged evaporator or a defective electronic control board.
The most common reasons your Bosch dishwasher has no heat are a defective electronic control board, clogged water valve or a broken detergent dispenser.
The most common reasons your Kenmore Elite microwave has no power are a bad thermostat, malfunctioning electronic control board or a broken switch.
The most common reasons your Kenmore refrigerator is noisy are a faulty ice maker assembly, defective electronic control board or a locked compressor.