Replacing or repairing an HVAC system can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000, so having the right warranty in place can save you thousands. But not all HVAC warranties work the same — and knowing the difference between manufacturer warranties, extended warranties, and home warranties can help you avoid major out-of-pocket expenses when your system breaks down.
A manufacturer warranty typically covers parts for five to 10 years and may require registration. Extended warranties can stretch coverage longer, often including labor. Home warranties, on the other hand, are separate service contracts that cover repairs and replacements due to everyday wear and tear — not just manufacturer defects.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through manufacturer’s warranties, including equipment warranties, labor warranties, extended warranties, and home warranties with HVAC system coverage along with how to choose the best protection for your home. Whether you’re buying a new system or looking to protect an aging unit, understanding these warranties will help you make a smarter, more cost-effective decision.
Choice Home Warranty
American Home Shield
Liberty Home Guard
Select Home Warranty
What Is an HVAC Warranty?
Residential HVAC warranties provide protection to homeowners against potential breakdowns or malfunctions encountered with a HVAC system. Most HVAC companies offer an equipment warranty that lasts five years, but many on the market also offer an extended 10-year warranty if you complete the registration paperwork.
HVAC warranties vary in coverage and type. Manufacturer and extended warranties protect system function for a set period of time and cover defects. However, there are also labor warranties that protect you against paying extra fees if any repairs or replacements didn’t fix the HVAC system correctly. In comparison, a home warranty with HVAC equipment coverage covers the repair and replacement of HVAC systems that break down due to normal wear and tear.
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Company |
Link |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Choice Home Warranty |
Best Claims Acceptance |
4.3 |
$46–$55 | $85 | 48 states (ex WA & CA) |
Get Quote |
|
Select Home Warranty |
Best Value |
4.2 |
$52–$58 | $75-$85 | All except NV, WA, & WI |
Get Quote |
|
American Home Shield |
Best Coverage Limits |
4.3 |
$35–$75 | $100–$125 | 49 states (ex. AK) |
Get Quote |
The Home Service Club |
Best Response Time |
4.4 |
$50–$63 | $60–$90 | All 50 states |
Get Quote |
|
Liberty Home Guard |
Best for Customization |
4.6 |
$50-$60 | $75 | All 50 states |
Get Quote |
Types of HVAC Warranties
Not all HVAC warranties cover the same things — and knowing the difference can save you a lot of frustration (and money) when something goes wrong. Here’s a breakdown of the four main types of HVAC warranties, how they work, and when each one matters most:
HVAC Manufacturer Warranty
This is the standard warranty that comes with your HVAC system when it’s installed. It typically covers defective parts for five to 10 years, depending on the brand and model.
- What’s covered: Core components like compressors, coils, and heat exchangers.
- What’s not: Labor, refrigerant, diagnostic fees — unless specified.
- Tip: To get full coverage, you usually have to register the system within 60 days of installation. Otherwise, coverage might be shorter.
Some of the top manufacturer warranties include:
- Goodman and Amana: 10-year parts and limited lifetime coverage on heat exchangers and compressors.
- Trane and American Standard: 10 years on parts (with registration), but labor isn’t included.
- Daikin (mini-splits: 12-year limited warranty, among the best for ductless systems.
What To Look for in a HVAC Manufacturer Warranty
When you purchase an HVAC system from a manufacturer, it comes with a standard warranty (also called a limited warranty). A standard HVAC warranty should clearly outline the following:
- Length of coverage: The duration period is how long the HVAC warranty lasts. The warranty period may be different for different parts or models. Standard coverage lengths are one year, five years, 20 years, or a lifetime.
- Start date: The installation date usually marks the beginning of manufacturer warranty coverage.
- What equipment is covered: Protected parts and components include items such as thermostats and air handlers.
- Exclusions: System parts may be part of the exclusions.
- Conditions of use: Certain circumstances or events may void your warranty.
- Warranty registration: The manufacturer will provide instructions on how to register the product. Check whether there are any additional benefits to product registration.
- How to make a claim: Clear instructions on how to file a warranty claim should be provided.
- Labor costs: Even if your particular repair is covered under the warranty, labor costs or other service fees related to the repair may not be covered. However, an extended warranty may cover labor costs.
HVAC Extended Warranty
Extended warranties are optional and usually purchased through the manufacturer, installer, or a third-party company. They extend the original warranty’s coverage and often add labor protection, which standard warranties don’t include.
- When it’s useful: If you want long-term peace of mind and want to avoid surprise labor costs down the line.
- Watch for: Third-party plans vary a lot. Make sure the provider is reputable and offers clear terms on what’s actually included.
Labor Warranty
Some HVAC contractors offer their own labor warranties that cover installation-related issues for a set period — usually one to three years.
- What it covers: labor costs if the system was installed improperly or if early failures are tied to workmanship
- What it doesn’t: failures due to manufacturer defects (that’s on the equipment warranty)
Always ask your installer what labor warranty is included. It’s often negotiable during the quote process.
Homeowners Insurance
While homeowners insurance isn’t a warranty, it’s worth discussing because it protects homeowners in situations that a HVAC warranty may not. For instance, homeowners insurance includes:
- Unforeseeable events, like a fallen tree or lightning strike damaging the HVAC unit
- The cost of a replacement in these situations
Homeowners insurance doesn’t cover wear and tear on your HVAC unit from regular use. Homeowners insurance also won’t cover the replacement if your unit breaks down simply because it’s old.
Home Warranty
Having a home warranty covering a HVAC system differs from having homeowners insurance. The primary purpose of the home warranty is to cover breakdowns resulting from regular use. Homeowners pay an annual or monthly fee along with a service fee for the coverage. Savings come from not paying the cost of the repair or replacement. Many homeowners find these prices more manageable than the total cost of an unplanned breakdown.
The price of home warranty coverage for heating and air conditioning differs based on the provider and the type of plan you select. Most home warranty companies offer an air conditioning warranty or a heating warranty and rarely list them as one unit. I recommend you thoroughly read your service contract before signing to make sure you have the coverage you need.
What to know about home warranties and HVAC systems:
- Home warranties usually don’t cover preexisting conditions.
- It’s up to the provider to determine whether your HVAC system can be repaired or whether it should be replaced.
- The cost of a replacement may be completely covered, or the provider may have a price cap.
- Your contract will list what HVAC system parts are covered and what parts are not.
- Some providers require an inspection to determine the condition of your systems and appliances before coverage begins.
What Voids an HVAC Manufacturer Warranty?
HVAC warranties outline specific terms and conditions regarding covered repairs or replacements. Violating these terms could unknowingly forfeit your warranty benefits.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates these home warranty conditions so that manufacturers can’t get too excessive with limitations. Follow these tips to avoid voiding your HVAC warranty:
- Read your home warranty contract to know what items are covered.
- Register your HVAC system with the manufacturer to receive the benefits of the limited warranty.
- Read the HVAC owner’s manual for proper use and maintenance. Misusing or improperly maintaining the HVAC system can void your warranty. Simple tasks like changing air filters make your system last longer.
- Properly install your HVAC system. Improper installment can void your HVAC warranty.
- Equipment that is not from the original manufacturer can void your limited warranty.
- Keep receipts and all other maintenance records. These can come in handy if a repair is necessary and prove that you have maintained the HVAC system.
HVAC Warranty Comparison
Most HVAC brands offer similar warranty lengths, but a few stand out for better coverage, easier registration, or optional labor protection. Here’s how leading manufacturers compare on key warranty terms:
| Provider | Warranty details | Registration period | Warranty transferability | Extended Warranty |
| American Standard | All American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning S-Series gas furnaces have a lifetime registered limited warranty on the heat exchanger and a 10-year registered limited warranty on internal functional parts (residential use only). | Products installed on or after May 1, 2009, must be registered within 60 days of the installation date. | The registered limited warranty transfer option is available to purchase products installed on or after August 1, 2011, during the 60-day product registration period or within 90 days of the home sale. | Optional extended warranty available. |
| Goodman Air Conditioning & Heating | 10-year parts limited warranty, lifetime compressor limited warranty, lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty, and 10-year unit replacement limited warranty (on select gas furnaces). | Within 60 days of the installation (or closing) date. | N/A | Optional extended warranty available. |
| Trane | Base limited warranty typically covers part replacement costs for five years, while registered limited warranty typically covers part replacement costs for 10 years. | Within 60 days of the installation date. | The base limited warranty is not transferable. | An optional extended warranty is available to cover the cost of parts and labor. |
| Maytag | M1200 Series: 12-year limited parts warranty and dependability promise (M120 models dependability promise is one year).
Limited lifetime heat exchanger warranty. 12-year air handlers and coil warranty. |
Within 60 days of the installation date. | The base warranty is transferable, but the upgraded registered warranty is not. | Extended labor protection plans are available to cover labor costs. |
Why Should You Choose a Home Warranty for HVAC Coverage?
A manufacturer’s warranty may seem like the most convenient option to cover your heating and air conditioning needs. However, a home warranty can be more cost-effective because it covers more systems and appliances than just your HVAC. I recommend purchasing a home warranty from a trustworthy home protection provider.
Convenience
A manufacturer’s HVAC warranty only covers one system, and you have to register your product to get the full benefits. This means all your appliances will have different warranties from different providers. It can be challenging to track which appliances are still under warranty and what the coverage includes.
With a home warranty, you have one contract covering several major systems and appliances throughout your home, including your HVAC system (if you select a plan with that level of coverage).
Coverage
Manufacturer’s HVAC warranties cover defective parts, not damage from regular use. On the other hand, home warranties are designed to protect homeowners from the costs of repairs caused by normal wear and tear.
Most HVAC systems last 10–15 years when they’re correctly maintained. Your system will likely need some repair after over a decade of almost daily use. Common HVAC repairs include:
- Broken compressor fans
- Refrigerant leaks
- Frozen condenser coils
- Drainage issues
- Clogged air filters
Home warranties also provide coverage for older heaters and air conditioners, so your system’s age won’t affect your eligibility for coverage.
HVAC Warranty Cost
On average, home warranties with HVAC coverage cost $50 a month or about $300–$800 a year. In addition, most plans require a service fee per claim, which usually runs between $65 and $125.
Compare these costs to the expenses of HVAC repairs and replacements without home warranty coverage.
| Unit | Repair cost | Replacement cost |
| Air conditioner | $347 | $5,413 |
| Heater | $284 | $4,249 |
Even if a part is still under a manufacturer warranty, you’ll often pay $400–$1,000 in labor just to get it installed. That’s why extended warranties or home warranties that include labor are worth considering.
Our HVAC Warranty Recommendation
If you’re looking for solid HVAC protection beyond the manufacturer warranty, Choice Home Warranty is our top pick. Its plans are affordable, cover both parts and labor, and include HVAC systems under normal wear and tear — which is how most breakdowns actually happen.
Here’s why Choice stands out:
- Comprehensive coverage – The Total Plan includes heating, air conditioning, ductwork, plus 15+ other home systems and appliances. You can also add extras like septic systems, sump pumps, and pool equipment.
- No home inspection required – You won’t need a system check to get coverage started, which is a big plus for older HVAC units.
- Flat $85 service fee – No surprises here. That’s all you pay when something breaks and they send a local, screened technician.
- Transferable coverage – If you sell your home, the warranty can go with it at no extra cost — a bonus for resale value.
- 24/7 service requests – Whether it’s a weekend or holiday, you can file a claim any time.
Compared to other providers, Choice delivers a good balance of cost, coverage, and claims reliability. It’s not just about saving money — it’s about knowing you won’t be caught off guard if your HVAC system fails in the middle of a heat wave or cold snap.
If your system is more than 5 years old or out of manufacturer warranty, a home warranty like Choice can make the difference between a budget-friendly repair and a $5,000 surprise.
Interview with Kevin Brock, Owner/Founder of HVAC Direct
Which HVAC manufacturer stands out as the best in terms of fewest repairs and longest lifespan?
Goodman consistently delivers the best mix of durability, performance, and affordability for traditional ducted systems. Their units are built to last and tend to need fewer repairs over a 10–15 year lifespan. It’s a solid choice for most homeowners who want a reliable system without overpaying for premium branding.
If you’re looking at ductless systems, Daikin leads the pack. Their mini-split systems are well-engineered, efficient, and designed for long-term performance. Whether you need heating, cooling, or both, Daikin’s inverter-driven tech holds up over time with fewer breakdowns.
Which manufacturer has the best warranty?
Goodman’s warranty is one of the most comprehensive and homeowner-friendly in the business. They offer 10-year limited parts coverage and, in many cases, a lifetime warranty on compressors and heat exchangers — especially in their gas furnaces. More importantly, they honor their claims without making homeowners jump through hoops.
For ductless systems, Daikin stands out again. Their 12-year limited warranty on mini-split systems is one of the best in the industry. Just make sure you register your product on time to lock in full coverage.
Do you think that manufacturer warranties end up being useful, or do labor fees, installation costs, or other fine print exclusions get in the way?
Manufacturer warranties are absolutely worth having — but they mostly cover parts, not labor. That’s where many homeowners get surprised. A failed part may be replaced for free, but you could still owe hundreds in labor costs, refrigerant refill, or diagnostic fees.
If your system’s under warranty, you’ll save on the most expensive components. But if you want full protection, especially for service calls and labor, you’ll need to add an extended warranty or consider a home warranty plan that covers wear and tear.
Does a home warranty significantly benefit a customer in terms of HVAC repairs?
Yes — especially when something big fails, like a compressor or blower motor. These repairs can easily run $1,500 or more without coverage. With a home warranty, you’ll typically just pay a flat service fee.
They’re especially valuable once your manufacturer warranty expires. Just make sure the plan explicitly includes HVAC systems, and check the coverage caps. Not all contracts cover high-dollar replacements, so read the fine print before you sign.
What are quick tips every homeowner should know?
The #1 tip: Change your air filters at least twice a year — ideally every one to three months if you’re running the system often. Dirty filters are the top reason HVAC systems break down prematurely.
Also:
- Keep outdoor units clear of leaves and debris.
- Schedule a professional tune-up once a year (spring for AC, fall for heat).
- Listen for odd noises — they’re usually the first sign something’s going wrong.
These simple habits extend your system’s life and keep warranty coverage intact.
