Why Smart Buys Don't Always Need a Warranty
If there’s one misconception about HVAC equipment, it probably relates to warranties. Maybe you’re in the middle of working on a repair. You just need that one, specific part to save the entire system. The problem, though, is that it isn’t being manufactured anymore. It’s difficult to find, but luckily you’ve been able to locate it online. And even better, the price is right! But the part is out of warranty. Does that matter? Or can you still make the repair and save the day?
The Reality of HVAC Part Warranties
Having questions about HVAC warranties makes sense. Everyone wants to have an extra line of defense to help make sure their equipment lasts. With a warranty, you think you might be able to avoid costly repairs if something goes wrong down the road. But in reality, that isn’t always the case. Warranties are only designed to work under very specific circumstances. Taking a closer look at the parameters of a typical HVAC warranty can help you understand what’s actually necessary for your repair—and what might be money down the drain.
For example, when you consider the big picture, HVAC units don’t normally stop functioning within that warranty timeframe anyway. And the majority of the issues that do arise will come from the installation, not the unit itself. So, if 9 times out of 10 the problem is the fault of an inexperienced technician, then going with equipment that’s out of warranty shouldn’t really make a difference. An older part that’s brand new can still get the job done right.
At the end of the day, there are all types of factors that can void a warranty. It might be that the unit itself or other parts weren’t sized correctly during the installation process. Or perhaps the owner hasn’t kept up with their HVAC equipment maintenance over the years. Even forgetting to change the air filters regularly can interfere with the warranty. Not to mention, the warranty can be voided if the system wasn’t installed by a licensed tech. That’s why paying attention to all of the details matters.
Other Options for HVAC Equipment
There are so many reasons why a warranty won’t actually hold up for homeowners and property managers. Ultimately, that warranty itself may not need to impact your decision. You probably just want the heating or cooling system to work like it should. If you can save a good chunk of money on your equipment by ignoring the “lure” of a warranty, then you might have a great path forward—whether for a replacement part, or a brand new and unused unit.
It all comes down to communication. For general contractors, the costs of finding specific HVAC equipment for their jobs can add up fast. But if you can watch your bottom line and buy without a warranty, you could end up saving yourself and your clients a lot of money. When you understand the cost difference and then do the install or repair correctly, working without the warranties can be a win-win.
Then, if you still have reservations, you can always look into purchasing a home warranty or rider to the homeowner policy to help make up the difference. Making the right decision for your budget and peace of mind means weighing all of the options. Sometimes that warranty can help, and other times you may not really need it after all!