6 Problems That Will Void Your HVAC Warranty (Don’t Do These!)

The last thing you want to do as a homeowner is void your HVAC warranty. Believe it or not, how your HVAC warranty can be voided is easy if you make some common mistakes we will discuss today.

From forgetting to register your HVAC system or not meeting the conditions of an extended warranty, you don’t want to risk any of the common issues that can void your HVAC warranty below!

6 Common Mistakes that Void HVAC Warranties:

Below are the most common issues we see that will void your HVAC system’s warranty. Here at Top Shelf Heating & Cooling of Idaho, we recognize that certain circumstances may arise about your HVAC system.

While dealing with heating and cooling problems is never fun, having a valid warranty is always comforting. That is why we recommend a regular tune-up schedule and only working with a licensed professional. As you are about to see, failing to do so can lead to warranty issues!

1. Making Repairs By Yourself

The DIY stuff is never a good idea. Most manufacturers want to see documentation of maintenance and repairs and will almost always void your warranty if you try to work on it yourself. The DIY stuff is never a good idea with your HVAC systems. While dealing with a contractor is not always fun, it is your best bet to keep your warranty valid.

2. Improper installation

The reason you want to work with an HVAC contractor that is licensed and insured is to guarantee the proper installation of new systems. Take, for example, your AC unit. A new AC unit requires specific equipment, installation guidelines, and standards in order for the warranty to remain valid. Even if you purchase your own system, you will want to make sure the contractor you hire is reputable and licensed.

3. Failing To Perform Proper Maintenance

Your HVAC manufacturer warranty is always contingent on your routine maintenance. HVAC technicians should perform annual maintenance and inspections to make sure your HVAC system is in good standing. Without annual maintenance, your warranty will not be seen as valid.

4. Not Hiring a Professional HVAC Company

In order for your HVAC warranty to remain valid, anytime you have HVAC work completed, you need to hire a professional and certified technician/company. For example, you must have a minor part replaced or repaired. In this case, you would want to contact an HVAC company that will do the work for you (and most likely walk you through the warranty claim).

(We) Top Shelf Heating & Cooling of the Treasure Valley region in Idaho has experienced invalid warranties because someone tried to complete a DIY HVAC repair. So don’t let your neighbor tinker around on your HVAC systems; instead, call a professional if you live in Boise, Nampa, or Meridian (or anywhere).

5. Wrong Replacement Parts

Manufacturer warranties explicitly state you must use their replacement parts. This means you can’t go to your local hardware store and pick up off-brands or unapproved replacement parts. HVAC systems rely on specific parts for proper functioning. A surefire way to void your HVAC warranty is to use the wrong replacement parts!

6. No documentation

If you have ever wondered why HVAC companies push annual maintenance and routine inspections, it is because of this last point. The manufacturer’s warranties are not guaranteed without the proper documentation of annual maintenance/check-ups. Like your car requires standard oil changes, your HVAC system requires annual maintenance to work properly.

HVAC warranties are contingent on these annual maintenance checks, and your HVAC equipment requires TLC to last. Without the proper documentation showing maintenance records, your repair and replacement costs could be on you!

In addition to documentation, always submit the proper warranty paperwork, including your system’s serial number, to keep your warranty valid!

What to know about home warranties and HVAC systems:

We know how warranties can be seen as a pain. The paperwork, red tape, and going back and forth can be burdensome. Typically, a manufacturer warranty covers any parts on the machine on behalf of the HVAC brand, according to Fire & Ice. Labor warranties cover the work done by your contractor.

Just like how a roofing company has a shingle warranty and a labor warranty, the typical HVAC contractor should offer a labor warranty for their work. While most manufacturer warranties have contingencies related to regular service and pro-ration over time, labor warranties are usually valid for a year, sometimes more.

It is best to ALWAYS get the full scope of both the manufacturer warranty and the labor warranty when you have a new AC unit, heating system, or hot water heater installed. Some companies that fix HVAC systems will also offer a labor warranty as well.

Quick Tips to Keep Your HVAC Warranty Valid:

1. Always work with a company that has great reputation and uses licensed professional technicians.
2. When installing any new HVAC system, be sure to register the products. Check with the contractor who installs your system to make sure the manufacturer’s warranty is valid.
3. Be sure to plan regular maintenance each year for your AC unit and heating system.
4. Call a professional and avoid trying to go the DIY route when it comes to your HVAC system!

The Verdict –

If you do everything listed above, you will guarantee that you can avoid repair costs and warranty issues. While most manufacturers will cover repairs and labor costs with a valid warranty, they might make it difficult, so proper documentation and installation are VITAL.

Air conditioning units, heating systems, and hot water heaters are not cheap to install so make sure you take the necessary steps above and reach out if you have any questions!

FAQ HVAC Warranty:

What can void your HVAC warranty?

The following are considered to be the top causes of ways to void your HVAC warranty:

1. Unauthorized Repairs or Modifications (always hire a reputable hvac technician)
2. Failure to Perform Regular Maintenance or HVAC Service
3. Using Non-Approved Parts or Components (think air conditioners, air conditioning, and heating systems)
4. Improper Installation of HVAC Unit
5. Negligence or Misuse (obviously a gray area)
6. Environmental Factors
7. Failure to Register the Warranty
8. Transfer of Ownership (some warranties are only valid for the original purchaser)
9. Commercial Use of Residential Units
10. Using the HVAC System for Non-Intended Purposes

Is your HVAC system covered in your home warranty?

Whether your HVAC system is covered under your home warranty depends on the specific terms and coverage of the warranty you have. Home warranties typically protect major home systems and appliances, including HVAC systems, but the extent of coverage can vary widely. Basic plans may include a limited range for specific components, while more comprehensive plans might offer broader protection.