10 Ways to Void Your Furnace or A/C Warranty – And How to Avoid Them!

Good AC and furnace warranty coverage is crucial when buying a new heating or cooling system, but don’t make one of these 10 critical mistakes and find yourself out in the cold… literally!

Almost all furnaces or air conditioners available on the market today come with very good warranties. If you follow the manufacturers’ terms, it is easy to maintain the warranty and be covered in case of malfunctions or breakdowns.

Unfortunately, many customers don’t read the warranty terms and conditions thoroughly. They don’t even realize they have voided the warranty until they need some repairs and find they have to pay out of their pocket.

This article explores the different ways in which you can void your furnace or central air conditioner warranty and find yourself paying for repairs yourself.

Why Is an Air Conditioner or Furnace Warranty Important?

New furnace and AC unit prices and warranties are some of the most important factors to consider while buying furnaces or central air conditioning units. If the warranty isn’t valid, you might be forced to pay for all basic repairs and replacements out of your pocket, which can burn a hole in your pocket.

Here are some reasons why you need a good warranty:

• Covering the cost of repairs
• Could save you lots of money in the long run
• Peace of mind that the furnace or A/C is reliable
• Gives you an idea of the expected lifespan of the system
• Transferrable warranty can be a good selling feature if you need to move

If you need to do an A/C or furnace warranty check, here’s some information that will help you compare warranties:

• A furnace warranty in Canada will generally cover the heat exchanger and the main components. The heat exchanger is one of the most expensive parts of a furnace and can cost $1,000 to $3,500+ to replace. Having warranty coverage for this component is essential.
• How long are furnace warranties? A heat exchanger warranty is typically for around 20 years, though some brands offer more. That covers the lifespan of the furnace, in most cases. Some manufacturers provide a limited lifetime warranty.
• A furnace warranty will usually cover functional parts like blower motors, igniters, and electronic controls. You should check with the manufacturer to see how far this warranty extends.
• An AC warranty will similarly cover parts and major components, such as the compressor and condenser. AC warranties can be five to 10 years, but some manufacturers offer lifetime coverage for major components.
• Most warranties don’t cover the labour cost involved in repairs. Some installation companies provide additional warranties on installation and maintenance at a fair cost. That can help you save money on future repairs.

Understanding Warranty Terms and Conditions

A warranty is an agreement, and the terms and conditions explain the rights and responsibilities of the homeowner and manufacturer. Here are some common terms and conditions you’ll encounter with furnace and air conditioner warranties:

• Coverage: An A/C or furnace warranty generally protects you from manufacturing defects to major parts and components. Some manufacturers have separate warranties for parts and the heat exchanger or compressor.
• Exclusions: There are many things that aren’t covered by a warranty, including cosmetic damage and damage from neglect, misuse, improper installation, natural disasters, etc. Labour costs aren’t usually covered either.
• Duration: Base warranties for furnace and air conditioners generally start at five to 10 years.
• Registration: Just about every HVAC manufacturer has extended warranty terms lasting 20+ years for homeowners who register their a/c or furnace after installation. You usually have 30 to 90 days to register.
• Transferability: Some are transferable, meaning if you sell your home, you can transfer some of the warranty coverage to the new owner.
• Responsibilities: There are things you’ll have to do to keep the warranty coverage valid, such as professional installation, annual maintenance, and more.

Manufacturer-Specific Warranty Guidelines

Different HVAC manufacturers offer different warranties, so the coverage you get with your furnace or air conditioner will depend on the brand.

Beyond that, many manufacturers also have coverage tiers, where entry-level models will have less protection and top-tier models will have the longest and most comprehensive ac or furnace warranty.

Let’s look at the top-tier coverage offered by some of the most popular HVAC brands:

Mistakes That Void the Warranty

The manufacturers will only offer a warranty if you meet certain conditions. If you fail to do so, the warrant might become void or will be downgraded based on the company’s policies. Here’s a look at the common mistakes:

1. You Didn’t Register the A/C or Furnace

Almost all manufacturers require you to register your warranty online soon after you purchase the unit (usually either 60 or 90 days after installation). Different companies have different time limits on this process, but it is a good idea to register within 60 days of installation or the time limit mentioned on their website.

Most manufacturers have online customer portals where you can manage everything from HVAC warranty registration to service requests.

You can easily register on such portals with all of your product purchase details, though this must often be done by the contractor. So be sure to follow up with them to make sure it’s been done after install.

You can also call the manufacturer directly to register the product if no registration portal is provided. If you don’t register, you should still be eligible for some basic AC or furnace warranty coverage, but it won’t last as long.

2. You Didn’t Take Care of Annual Maintenance

Manufacturers expect customers to maintain their appliances well. They recommend annual service to ensure the furnace or air conditioner is cleaned and small issues are fixed. This reduces the load on main components and reduces wear.

However, if the annual maintenance isn’t performed, the components of the main unit are more likely to sustain damage and wear easily. This will make manufacturers reluctant to grant warranty benefits to you.

Also note that it is a good idea to schedule annual maintenance with a reliable and approved service provider, ideally the same company that installed it.

This is especially important because the labour portion of the warranty from the local HVAC contractor who sold you your unit, will often only be covered if you have them perform annual maintenance, particularly for extended labour warranties of 2 – 10 years.

If you’re consistent with maintenance, the unit will last for a long time and you won’t have to pay for most of the replacements.

3. You Used an Unreliable Service Company

Getting service done is essential. It’s even more important to ensure the service is done by a reliable and trustworthy heating & cooling company. Make sure all repairs are done by a company that is a licensed distributor of that brand. You should also make sure the servicing company and the installation company are the same.

For example, don’t hire ABC company for installation and XYZ company for maintenance. The inconsistency might have an impact on your air conditioner or furnace warranty coverage.

For the best results, look for companies that are in the manufacturer’s distribution network. The company website will provide all the information you need.

4. You Performed DIY Maintenance

No matter how accomplished you are, it is never a good idea to attempt to service the unit yourself or by an unlicensed friend.

You risk damaging the system and voiding the AC or furnace warranty, so you’ll have to cover future repairs with your own money, making any money you save now with a DIY repair insignificant.

Hire an experienced and licensed maintenance or repair service provider to keep your furnace or AC in good condition.

Experienced professionals have specialized training in the field. They will follow the manufacturer’s requirements during repairs or maintenance to ensure there’s no damage to the components. If they make mistakes or damage components, they have insurance or warranties of their own to help you.

5. You Relocated the Unit

It’s almost never a good idea to relocate your unit. In virtually all cases, manufacturer warranties will explicitly state that the unit will only be covered if it is in its original location. So think long and hard about it before undergoing such a move.

Also note that if you sell your home, the warranty may not be transferrable to the new homeowner, or only the base warranty may apply. Same goes for when you buy your home from someone else. At the very least, try to get the warranty documents from the seller.

6. You Lost Important Documentation

It is easy to lose track of all the documentation and sales receipts of your various appliances, but it is important to hold on to them. Without the sale receipt or invoice, you might not be able to claim full A/C or furnace warranty coverage.

You can check the manufacturer’s website for their warranty requirements. Sometimes you don’t require documentation if you have registered the product and provided all of the details. If you’re not certain, contact the manufacturer and ask them about the invoice and sales receipt requirements.

7. The A/C or Furnace Wasn’t Installed Properly

Furnace and air conditioner manufacturers always recommend their approved service providers for installation. Different appliances have different installation requirements. Approved service providers undergo manufacturer training, so they are familiar with their products.

This is a safe bet because if the unit isn’t correctly installed and becomes damaged as a result, your warranty will be void. The manufacturers will notice when they send a technician for inspection and see the poor installation.

Improper installation will also affect the lifespan of the unit and cause problems. If you want to save money in the long run, it is a good idea to hire an approved service provider.

8. The AC or Furnace Warranty Doesn’t Cover That Type of Damage

Every manufacturer has a list of uncovered damage that doesn’t have warranty protection. This can include things like flooding, faulty wiring in your home, pairing the unit with incompatible components, and beyond.

Make sure you use components from the same manufacturer to replace damaged parts. Don’t use old or refurbished components in new appliances.

All these factors will not just void the warranty, but they’ll also shorten the lifespan of the unit by several years.

9. You Damaged the System

If you happen to damage the unit accidentally, the warranty won’t cover the repairs or replacements. For example, if something heavy falls on it or it’s damaged during nearby renovations, the warranty might become void.

Make sure your furnace or AC unit is properly protected from outdoor elements or accidents. That will help maintain the warranty.

Most warranties only cover manufacturing defects and regular wear and tear. You will have to pay out of your pocket for all other repairs or maintenance. Be sure to check with the manufacturer to see if they offer any extensions or other warranties at a nominal cost.

10. You Bought the Unit From an Unreliable Source

Everyone wants to save a few bucks on a major purchase, but we strongly urge you to resist the temptation of buying a unit from someone who isn’t an established local distributor or contractor.

It’s generally not a great idea to buy a unit from an unreliable source like a solo general tradesman on a classified site or worse, a secondhand furnace or A/C.

What’s more, manufacturers are not likely to honour any AC or furnace warranty that wasn’t provided through an established distribution channel.

AC or Furnace Warranty Transferability and Resale Considerations

Transferability means the warranty coverage on your furnace or A/C can be passed to a new homeowner when you sell your property. It can make your home more appealing for a potential buyer because it offers peace of mind that part of the investment is protected.

However, not all warranties are transferrable, and ones that are have special terms and conditions. Here are some key things to know about a transferrable a/c or furnace warranty:

• Many manufacturers charge a fee for processing a warranty transfer
• Transfers must typically occur within a specific period after the sale, often 30 to 90 days
• Some manufacturers reduce coverage or benefits for second owners
• Transferable warranties may exclude labor costs or specific components

Examples of manufacturers that offer transferrable warranties include Carrier, Bryant, Trane, American Standard, Lennox, Goodman, Amana, York, and Rheem.

Handling AC or Furnace Warranty Claims and Disputes

When making a warranty claim, you’ll generally follow these steps:

1. Contact the HVAC company who installed the furnace or air conditioner to diagnose and fix the problem
2. After they’ve performed the necessary maintenance, ask if they will submit the warranty claim on your behalf
3. If not, contact the manufacturer to begin a warranty claim
4. Provide the necessary information, which could include contact information, the name of the installer/HVAC technician, serial and model number, date of service, maintenance/repair details, annual maintenance records, etc.
5. Wait for the manufacturer to approve the claim

Should your claim be denied, start by reviewing your warranty documentation to ensure the work was covered.

If you think the work should have been covered under the warranty, you can dispute a denied claim by talking to the manufacturer’s customer service team. If you don’t get the answers you need, ask to speak to a supervisor.

Should the manufacturer fail to honour a valid warranty claim, you can submit a formal complaint, contact a consumer protection agency or Better Business Bureau, or seek legal advice.

What You Need to Know About Furnace & A/C Warranties

When you purchase an expensive appliance like a furnace, HVAC system, or air conditioner, it is important to understand the terms and conditions of the warranty well.

Most manufacturers provide detailed information on their website. You can usually download a PDF with the terms and conditions to read carefully.

Here are some facts to keep in mind:

• Different companies have slightly different policies. For example, your Rheem appliance might not have the same warranty as your Daiken appliance. Although many brands are in fact owned by the same parent company and so the warranties may be similar in these cases (though not always identical)
• You can expect the warranty to change based on product tiers. For example, a more affordable, entry-level product will have a less comprehensive warranty compared to premium models.
• Don’t just consider the duration of the warranty. You need to check if it covers basic repairs or replacement parts.
• Higher-end brands and models have more flexible warranties. If you fail to register or void the warranty in some way, they might still have lower, basic coverage instead of a full, comprehensive warranty.
• If you don’t understand the warranty terms and conditions, it is a good idea to ask a professional for advice or search online for warranty comparisons. That will help you choose the right product.

FAQ

Who has the best gas furnace warranty?

Goodman, York, KeepRite, Napoleon, Amana, Rheem, and Bryant all have excellent warranty coverage that goes above and beyond what’s standard, but registration is required to obtain the best coverage.

What is the life expectancy of a furnace?

Modern gas furnaces have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years, but it’s possible to get a longer life from a furnace if you have it installed professionally and maintained properly throughout the years.

What happens if I don’t register my furnace warranty?

An unregistered furnace will still be covered, but you’ll only be eligible for the basic warranty. This is usually a 10-year warranty that covers parts, including the heat exchanger.

Are there any specific maintenance requirements to keep my a/c or furnace warranty valid?

Yes, most warranties will have specific maintenance requirements, and they’ll be explained in the warranty document. Common requirements include installation by an HVAC professional, scheduling annual maintenance by a certified HVAC technician (and keep the proof), using only manufacturer approved parts, changing the filter regularly, and addressing repairs promptly.

How can I check the status of my furnace warranty?

The warranty document that comes with your furnace or air conditioner is a good place to check the status of your warranty.

But if you can’t find the physical copy, most HVAC manufacturers have warranty information on their websites, and you can look up your warranty. You may need to provide the model and serial number, your name, installation date, and your address.

Failing that, you can also try contacting the manufacturer or the installer.