Does a Home Warranty Cover HVAC Repairs?

Before buying a new house, you probably take every precaution to make sure that everything is in good working order. But even the most rigorous inspection can’t predict when certain systems or appliances might wear out. That’s why  it’s helpful to have a home warranty plan, which covers some repair or replacement costs. But does a home warranty cover HVAC? Yes, but there are some caveats. Let’s dig into the specifics of home warranty coverage, and learn when to consult your local HVAC company.

What’s Included in Home Warranty Coverage

What’s included in your home warranty will vary depending on the company you buy it from and the level of coverage that you choose. However, most basic plans will protect: 

• Plumbing systems

• Electrical systems

• HVAC systems

• Kitchen appliances, including ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers

• Home security systems

You can also sign up for advanced home warranty coverage, which can include things like: 

• Swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs

• Sprinkler systems

• Plumbing fixtures and exterior plumbing

• Appliances outside of your kitchen, including additional refrigerators, stoves, and ovens

• Electronics, such as TVs and speakers

Which Parts of an HVAC System Are Covered in Your Home Warranty?

So, does a home warranty cover HVAC repairs or replacements? The short answer: yes. Whether you pick a basic or advanced home warranty, it should include some level of HVAC protection. 

However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it will cover every component of your HVAC system. Typically, your warranty will provide discounts on repairs or replacements on things like central air conditioning, heating systems, and water heaters. 

There are many types of HVAC systems, including split and hybrid systems. Before buying a home warranty, read the fine print to make sure that it includes coverage for the kind of HVAC system that you have. Certain HVAC components, like portable and window AC units, may not be protected.

How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost?

When you buy a home warranty, you’ll pay a monthly or annual fee, which will protect your appliances and systems for a year after you sign up. On average, a home warranty premium costs between $220 and $1,800 per year, with most people paying about $1,050 for a year’s worth of coverage. On top of that, you’ll usually have to pay a service fee of $80 to $130 every time your warranty company sends a pro for repairs.

What Else You Should Know About HVAC Systems and Home Warranties

On the surface, home warranty plans might seem like a great way to protect yourself from pricey HVAC expenses. However, these policies aren’t always what they seem, and it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for.

Home Warranties Only Apply in Certain Cases

Your warranty will only be valid in cases of normal wear and tear or age-related failures. In other words, if your HVAC system sustains damage from a storm and you have to call in the help of a local HVAC company, you can’t use your home warranty to help pay for the repairs or replacement. 

Similarly, your warranty won’t cover issues that arise from poor maintenance on your part. In fact, not scheduling routine HVAC maintenance or trying to troubleshoot problems yourself can void your warranty.

When submitting a claim, your provider might ask for inspection reports or other proof that you’ve been maintaining your system. If you can’t provide it, they might not approve your request.

Common Issues Covered by Home Warranty Coverage

• Normal wear and tear of HVAC system

• Age-related failures of HVAC system

• Routine inspections and maintenance

Common Issues Not Found Under Warranty 

• Damage to portable AC devices

• Existing issues with HVAC system prior to purchasing home warranty

• Damage caused by lack of maintenance and upkeep

• Damage from a natural disaster, such as a fire or flood

There May Be Limits

Many warranty plans have limits on how much the insurer will pay to repair or replace the various parts of your HVAC system. For example, your policy may only include $1,500 worth of ductwork repairs, or there might be an annual cap on all of your claims.

You Might Not Get a Complete HVAC Replacement

Finally, your plan might protect certain parts of your heating and cooling system, but does home warranty cover HVAC replacement entirely? Not necessarily.

Your provider will generally be the one to choose whether repairing or replacing your system is best. If they believe that the damage is repairable, they’ll probably try that first. If that doesn’t work, they may approve you for a full replacement—but they might only offer a few models, which aren’t always top-of-the-line products.