When it comes to warranties for HVAC installation, there are two types to consider: the equipment warranty provided by the manufacturer and the labor warranty provided by the contractor. The length of the air conditioning system warranty depends on the brand and type of product you have. According to current code rules, HVAC installers must provide a labor warranty of at least one year if they have obtained a permit. Manufacturer warranties can vary, but many have extended them to 10 years or more.
It's important to note that if the equipment is replaced after the eighth year under a 10-year limited warranty, the new equipment installed under warranty will have an additional two years of coverage. The manufacturer will cover the rest of the warranty period or one year, whichever is longer. This meets their warranty obligation, even though the new equipment is likely to last much longer than a year. Generally, HVAC parts are guaranteed for several years by the manufacturer that manufactured them, and labor warranties, when available, are offered by HVAC service companies or third-party insurers associated with them.
When contractors install a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, they usually come with a 10-year parts warranty from the manufacturer that covers the replacement of parts if they fail within that time frame. It's important to keep all documentation after performing any service, adjustment, or installation on your air conditioning system. Unless you purchase a separate extended warranty through your HVAC installation company, you should be prepared to pay for associated labor costs. If your HVAC equipment is less than two years old and isn't working, it may be covered both by the manufacturer's limited warranty and by your homebuilder's HVAC contractors, who are required by law to offer a two-year warranty on labor.
The most important thing to remember about HVAC warranties is that they cover the cost of replacing equipment, not the labor cost you would pay to an HVAC company. This way, if something happens to your installation company - such as a sale, retirement, or closure - you won't risk losing your extended labor warranty. This means that the original contractors who installed the air conditioning equipment in your home should be able to handle both parts and labor associated with it. Working with an HVAC company that can explain things in simple terms will help make the decision-making process easier.
It's also important to understand what kind of warranties are available for HVAC installation services so you can make an informed decision when selecting an installer for your home.
