Any new appliance or home equipment should come with a manufacturer’s warranty, and your air conditioner is no exception. The warranty protects you from faulty equipment and typically covers parts, replacements, and repairs. Understanding the terms of the warranty can save a homeowner thousands of dollars over the life of the A/C system – however, some mistakes could void that warranty and leave the homeowner with an expensive – and unnecessary – bill. This article will discuss five mistakes to avoid to keep your A/C warranty protection intact.
- Failure to Register the Warranty: One of the easiest things you can do to protect your equipment is also one of the most neglected. Most homeowners believe that their equipment comes with a warranty in place and is ready to go – but in most cases, they are required to complete and submit paperwork (often online) to complete their registration. Whether doing so on a website or filling out documents, remember to register and activate your warranty. Processing requests from the manufacturer for parts or services without a registered contract is complicated. Worse yet, you may find out your warranty is wholly voided, and you have no coverage at all.
- Improper Installation: Many people think they can save money by installing major appliances, but many things can go wrong during this installation. Your warranty won’t cover you if parts were left out or damaged during installation or if connections were not correctly established. The manufacturer will also only honor a warranty if you purchased and installed an A/C system that is the proper size for your home. Finally, most A/C warranties are automatically voided if a licensed HVAC professional does not install the system. There are many reasons to ensure that you hire an A/C professional to assist you with purchasing and installing a new air conditioner.
- Performing DIY Cleaning and Maintenance: While a diligent homeowner may safely change the air filters or lightly dust the unit, taking A/C components apart to clean them can void your protection. In particular, the manufacturer will automatically void the warranty if the homeowner removes protective casings or covers off parts or motors. So although keeping your A/C unit clean and dust-free will ensure more efficiency and longer life, be sure to have the maintenance performed by a licensed air conditioning technician. No matter how familiar they are with HVAC Systems, anyone who is unlicensed can void your warranty if they work on your A/C unit.
- Undocumented HVAC Maintenance: While A/C warranties hold the manufacturer to specific provisions, such as replacing defective parts, they also inherently require a standard of care from the homeowner. The warranty agreement likely provides guidelines for inspections, tune-ups, and maintenance – and they may void your warranty if you neglect to upkeep your system. The only way to prove that you have been a responsible HVAC owner is to have detailed maintenance history documentation. Performing the maintenance yourself, or letting a handyman do it, could result in losing your warranty protection. Expert Tip: Never skip an annual maintenance check – they could use it against you.
- Installing the Wrong Parts: Under their warranties, manufacturers only allow the installation of factory OEM parts. Installing just one off-brand part – even if it is unrelated to your warranty request – can void the entire warranty. Off-brand parts can be incompatible, resulting in unintended wear and tear or a complete system failure. While off-brand products seem like a great way to save money, they may cost you dearly in the future.
Ask for a Warranty for Workmanship
HVAC manufacturers stand behind their products with their warranties. Similarly, reputable A/C contractors will stand behind their expertise and installations. Be sure to ask any prospective A/C technician about any workmanship warranties they provide and how they can help you comply with the manufacturer’s warranty.
At Ocean Air, we employ expert technicians who are trained to work with you and provide the best A/C purchase, installation, or repair experience. We will not try to upsell or fool you with hidden costs – you’ll receive our honest recommendation and pledge for excellent service. Call today to learn more.