Columbus Homeowners’ Guide to HVAC System Warranties and Coverage
Buying a new HVAC system is a significant investment for Columbus, OH homeowners. Beyond choosing the right equipment, understanding your HVAC system warranty is critical. A warranty protects your system and your wallet, ensuring that repair or replacement costs are managed if something goes wrong. Unfortunately, warranties can be confusing — they often differ by manufacturer, system type, and coverage period.
Knowing what your HVAC warranty includes and how to maintain it helps prevent surprises and extends the life of your system. This guide breaks down the essentials so you can make informed decisions about your heating and cooling equipment.
What Is an HVAC System Warranty?
An HVAC system warranty is a guarantee provided by the manufacturer that covers specific parts, labor, or system performance for a set period. Understanding the scope of your warranty helps you know what repairs or replacements are covered and what actions could void the warranty.
Types of HVAC Warranties
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Manufacturer’s Warranty: Covers defects in materials or workmanship for a set period, usually 5–10 years.
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Parts Warranty: Protects specific components such as compressors, motors, and circuit boards.
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Labor Warranty: Covers the cost of professional installation or repair work, sometimes offered by the installer.
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Extended or Optional Warranties: Additional coverage you can purchase to extend protection beyond the standard term.
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Transferable Warranties: Allow coverage to transfer to a new homeowner if you sell your home within the warranty period.
Understanding the type of warranty your HVAC system comes with is essential before scheduling any service or maintenance.
What HVAC Warranties Typically Cover
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Compressor failures: Often covered for 5–10 years depending on the system.
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Motors and fans: Protection against defects that affect operation.
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Refrigerant leaks: Some systems cover refrigerant replacement for a limited time.
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Electrical components: Includes circuit boards, capacitors, and relays.
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Manufacturer defects: Any material or design flaws that prevent the system from working as intended.
How to Maintain Your HVAC Warranty
Warranties come with conditions that homeowners must meet to ensure coverage remains valid. Failing to follow these guidelines can result in denied claims.
Essential Warranty Maintenance Tips
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Schedule regular maintenance: Most warranties require annual professional inspections and tune-ups.
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Use licensed technicians: Repairs or installations must be performed by certified HVAC professionals.
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Keep records: Document all maintenance, repairs, and service visits to support claims.
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Follow manufacturer instructions: Avoid modifications or using unapproved parts that could void coverage.
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Register your system: Some manufacturers require registration within a certain timeframe after installation.
Following these steps helps Ohio homeowners maximize their HVAC investment and ensures that coverage remains in place if a problem arises.
Common Warranty Limitations
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Wear and tear: Normal aging of parts is usually not covered.
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Improper installation: If the system wasn’t installed by a licensed professional, coverage may be void.
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Environmental damage: Damage caused by floods, lightning, or pests may not be included.
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Unauthorized repairs: DIY repairs or using unapproved parts can invalidate the warranty.
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Neglected maintenance: Failure to perform required inspections or cleaning may result in denied claims.
Why Understanding Your HVAC Warranty Matters
Knowing your warranty helps you:
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Avoid unexpected expenses: Understand what is and isn’t covered before problems occur.
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Plan system maintenance: Schedule professional tune-ups that comply with warranty requirements.
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Make informed upgrades: Choose replacement or supplemental systems knowing what’s covered.
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Protect your home’s comfort: Ensure your heating and cooling system operates efficiently without costly surprises.
By reviewing your warranty, you gain peace of mind and protect your investment in one of your home’s most important systems.
General Pricing Information for Columbus HVAC Systems
While exact pricing depends on your system type and home size, here’s a general guide:
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Standard maintenance & tune-ups: $100–$200 per visit
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Minor repairs (motors, electrical components): $150–$500 per repair
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Compressor replacement: $800–$1,500 depending on system size
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Full HVAC system replacement: $4,000–$10,000 depending on equipment and installation
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Extended warranty plans: $200–$600 depending on coverage length and system type
Investing in proper installation, regular maintenance, and warranty compliance helps Columbus homeowners avoid unexpected expenses and maximize system lifespan.
Ready to Learn More About Your HVAC System Warranty?
If you have questions about your HVAC warranty or need a licensed technician for inspection or maintenance, Sears Heating & Cooling is here to help. Our team ensures your system operates efficiently and that all warranty requirements are met.
Call us today [phone-link] or schedule online to protect your HVAC system and your home’s comfort.
