The 3 Main Types of Warranties: What They Cover (and What They Don’t)

HVAC systems are a major investment, and it’s crucial to protect yours with a strong warranty. But not all warranties are equal. Pay attention to the fine print when you purchase a new HVAC system; it could save you a lot of money down the road.

1. Basic Manufacturer HVAC Warranties

Most new HVAC systems come with a manufacturer's warranty, but the coverage and warranty length can vary widely. Here’s what’s typical:

• What’s Covered:

• Manufacturer Defects: Replacement of parts that fail due to manufacturer defects.
• For a Certain Time Period: Typically 5-10 years.
• Registered Equipment: Most warranties require registering the equipment to validate coverage.

• What’s Not:

• Labor: Warranty covers failed parts, but not repair or installation costs.
• Shipping Costs: Standard warranties usually don’t cover shipping of replacement parts.
• Routine Maintenance: You must cover filter replacements, tune-ups, and cleanings.
• Improper Installation: Non-professional installation voids the warranty.
• Neglect or Misuse: Failure to properly use or maintain the system voids coverage.
• Damage: Rodents, insects, vandalism, and natural disasters are excluded.

Pro Tip: The average HVAC system should last between 15 and 20 years with proper care. If an HVAC manufacturer only offers 5-year warranties, that’s a sign they don’t stand behind their product’s longevity. Choose an HVAC system with a warranty of 10 years or more.

2. Extended HVAC Warranties

• What’s Covered:
  Terms vary by manufacturer, but extended warranties typically cover everything a basic warranty does, plus:

• Labor: Covers the cost of labor and installation for repairs or replacements.
• Longer Protection: Often extends the warranty past the standard warranty time.

• What’s Not:
  Similar to standard warranties, extended warranties don’t cover:

• Labor: Warranty covers failed parts, but not repair or installation costs.
• Shipping Costs: Standard warranties usually don’t cover shipping of replacement parts.
• Routine Maintenance: You must cover filter replacements, tune-ups, and cleanings.
• Improper Installation: Non-professional installation voids the warranty.
• Neglect or Misuse: Failure to properly use or maintain the system voids coverage.
• Damage: Rodents, insects, vandalism, and natural disasters are excluded.

Pro Tip: Keep records of routine maintenance (filter purchase receipts, planned maintenance follow-up emails, etc.) and repairs. They could be the difference between warranty coverage and denial.

3. Installer HVAC Warranties

Choosing a qualified, trusted professional to install your new HVAC system is just as important as the system itself. Installer warranties, sometimes called labor or workmanship warranties, protect you from issues caused by improper installation. Your HVAC provider promises to stand behind their work.

Make sure your HVAC installer:

• Offers an installer warranty
  Choose an HVAC provider who backs up their service with a clear labor warranty.
• Is authorized
  Keep your warranty valid by confirming they’re an authorized installer through your system’s manufacturer.

Pro Tip: Installer warranties can vary widely. Read your contract carefully and consider using a locally owned HVAC company with a strong reputation within your community; they have an incentive to do the job right.

How Does the 2025 Refrigerant Mandate Affects HVAC Warranties and Repairs?

On January 1, 2025, the EPA’s new refrigerant mandate went into effect. The purpose is to reduce global warming emissions by setting a 750 global warming potential (GWP) limit for air conditioners. This means R-410A refrigerants (once the industry standard) are being phased out, and newly installed systems must meet the new GWP limit.

What the R-410A Phaseout Means for Colorado Homeowners

As HVAC manufacturers and installers adapt to the mandate, here’s how it could affect new and existing warranties:

1. Your Current Warranty Still Applies: If you have an R-410A system, your warranty remains valid, though it could get harder to source replacement parts.
2. Future-Proof Investment: Purchasing a new, compliant system ensures parts availability and long-term warranty support.
3. First-Generation Risks: New refrigeration technology brings some unknowns, making strong manufacturer warranties more important than ever.
4. Compatibility Concerns: Older systems may be difficult to service or require uncommon retrofits to work with new refrigerants. This makes installer warranties especially valuable.

Pro Tip: Before hiring an HVAC company, ask about their training and experience installing and repairing new systems to ensure your warranty stays valid and your system lasts.

Why L&M HVAC is Highlands Ranch Homeowners’ Trusted HVAC Provider

L&M HVAC & Mechanical has been the go-to HVAC choice for Highlands Ranch homeowners because of our commitment to exceptional service and warranty-backed comfort solutions.

• We Only Use the Best: We’re proud to be a Rheem Pro Partner and exclusively install Rheem products, known for their quality and industry-leading warranties.
• We Stand Behind Our Work: We treat your HVAC system like the investment it is, protecting it with expert installation and clear workmanship warranties.
• We’re Locally Owned: We treat our customers like neighbors and take pride in our reputation as the HVAC company Highlands Ranch homeowners can count on.