When you invest in climate control for your home, HVAC warranties are supposed to provide some peace of mind. And in many cases, it does—if you know what’s included and what gets left out.
We’ve seen plenty of folks surprised to find out something isn’t covered or missed a deadline they didn’t even know existed.
What’s Usually Covered
Most new HVAC systems come with a manufacturer’s parts warranty, and it typically covers the major components—the compressor, the coil, the heat exchanger. These are the parts that carry the biggest price tag to replace, so it’s good coverage to have.
A lot of manufacturers offer an equipment registration incentive, where they’ll offer ten years of coverage instead of the default of 5 years.
That registration step usually needs to happen within 60 to 90 days after installation. It’s a simple process, and typically, either the contractor does it on your behalf, or you fill out a form online.
If your system was installed recently and you’re not sure whether it was registered, it’s worth checking. Most manufacturers can confirm with a quick phone call and the unit’s serial number. Sometimes, if you’re still within the grace period, you can submit the paperwork late and still lock in the longer term.
What Doesn’t Get Picked Up by the Warranty
Manufacturer’s HVAC warranties typically don’t include labor. Even if a replacement part is covered, you’ll still pay for the time and work needed to install it.
Contractors sometimes offer a labor warranty of their own for the first year or two, but that varies. You’ll be responsible for the service call if you didn’t get one—or if it’s expired.
There are a few other things most warranties won’t cover:
- Parts that wear out over time (like contactors or capacitors)
- Problems caused by installation mistakes or poor maintenance
- Anything related to filters, drain lines, or routine upkeep
If a coil fails because it was never cleaned, or a motor shorts due to a blocked vent, the manufacturer’s not going to take the hit. They stand behind the equipment, not how it’s used.
Extended Coverage: Good Deal or Not?
Extended HVAC warranties come in a few forms. Some are backed by the manufacturer, others by the installer or a third-party company.
When they’re reliable and include both parts and labor, they can help smooth out the surprise of a breakdown—especially if it happens past year five or six. Just be aware: many of these plans have strings attached. Some only kick in once the basic warranty runs out. Others require yearly maintenance visits to stay valid.
If you’re offered extended coverage, ask to see the full terms in writing. That’ll give you a clearer picture of whether it’s something that fits your situation—or something you’ll pay for and forget.
Maintenance Requirements: Do They Matter?
Yes, and it’s often the deciding factor when it comes time to file a claim.
Most warranty language includes a clause about “routine maintenance.” But what that means isn’t always defined clearly. In practice, hanging onto receipts or service records is helpful because they serve as proof that you had your system cleaned and inspected regularly. anything that shows the system was cleaned and inspected regularly. Even notes from seasonal filter changes or reminders on your calendar can support your case.
What Happens After It Expires?
Once HVAC warranties end, you’re responsible for everything, including the parts, labor, and any related service. If a repair comes up after ten years, especially something like a compressor or heat exchanger, the price tag may not be far off from what a new system would cost.
That’s usually when we start talking to homeowners about whether it’s worth putting more money into the old unit, or whether it’s time to plan ahead for replacement.
How Schwantes Handles It
Our installs always come with a money-back guarantee. If something’s off and we can’t make it right, we’ll remove the system and refund the job.
For added protection, we also offer extended warranties backed by the manufacturer.
As for long-term maintenance, Schwante’s Comfort Club Premier Efficiency Program makes regular maintenance more affordable and accessible to everyone, so you don’t have to stress about your tune-ups.
Still not sure if it’s right for you?
- Having a regular Planned Maintenance program will extend the life of your equipment.
- Planned Maintenance can and will reduce your energy expenses.
- A Planned Maintenance program will improve the indoor comfort in your business or home.
- Preferred scheduling for service calls.
- Receive a 15% discount on repairs.
