Planning to replace your HVAC system? If so, you will need to look into warranties for your new equipment. In fact, you should look into two warranties: one for the equipment from the manufacturer and one from the contractor who installs your system. Let’s consider the HVAC warranty terms you may be faced with.
Manufacturer’s Warranty
The manufacturer’s warranty typically involves replacing defective parts during a limited period of time from installation. This term is usually five years, but that warranty often extends to 10 years when the product is registered with the manufacturer. Your contractor may offer to register it for you as part of your contract. This is ideal, but if you have to register the product yourself, it isn’t difficult to do.
Labor Warranty
Labor warranties may vary widely from one contractor to another. For instance, you may be offered a 10-year labor warranty if you sign up for a service agreement after installation. That’s a pretty good deal, although do study the terms of the service agreement and compare it with others. Typically, declining the service agreement will result in an offer of a warranty for significantly fewer years.
Whatever the terms, consider the prices of the warranties and what’s included in inspections before you sign.
Prior to the warranty discussion, you will need to assess the contractor not only by means of references but also based on whether the contractor offers a pre-installation analysis, including system sizing and load calculations. A thorough analysis of your home’s HVAC needs can boost your chances of getting a good installation. When your installation is performed correctly, you’re not likely to use the warranty — and that’s a good thing.
A contractor who offers a 10-year warranty is usually confident of performing a superior installation. He likely has a team of well-trained technicians who do such good work that he knows it’s unlikely his customers will need to resort to the warranty to fix problems.
Want to know more about HVAC warranty terms? Contact CCAC, serving the Coastal Bend area of Texas. We perform HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance.