Purchasing a new HVAC system for your home can be incredibly exciting, but it is an expensive investment. Thankfully, once you’ve invested in a new system, you can avoid replacing the system for up to a decade. With the warranty, you may also be able to avoid the cost of repairs and part replacement.
However, without proper care for the system, you may void your HVAC warranty, which can cost you thousands of dollars out of pocket. While you may think you can easily avoid voiding the warranty, there are some mistakes you can make that will lead to this. If you want to learn more about how to prevent voiding your HVAC system’s warranty, keep reading.
Common Ways You May Void Your HVAC Warranty
1. You Don’t Schedule Regular Maintenance
If your HVAC system is functioning properly, you think you can avoid yearly or twice-yearly maintenance. While you might think your system is functioning properly, this maintenance is still essential if you don’t want to void your HVAC warranty. You should schedule this maintenance in the spring and fall months to ensure the system is prepared to face your changing needs during the hottest and coldest months of the year.
2. You Improperly Install the System
When installing a new furnace or air conditioner in your home, it is essential that you follow all of the manufacturer’s guidelines. The system manufacturer will provide guidelines to ensure the system functions as efficiently as possible. Failing to follow the steps laid out by the manufacturer may mean you’ll void your HVAC warranty, and you will need to cover any problems that follow as a result of improper installation.
3. You Didn’t Register Your System
After your HVAC system is installed, it is essential that you register the system with the manufacturer. When you work with an HVAC professional for installation, they will provide you with the paperwork to register the system. For many systems, you have up to 60 days from installation to register the device before it is no longer eligible for warranty. If you want to avoid paying for repairs during this period, don’t forget to fill out and submit this paperwork.
4. You Purchased the Wrong Replacement Parts
Once you’ve registered the system, there are a few things you have to do to ensure you don’t void your HVAC warranty, and that includes purchasing proper replacement parts. You’ll need to front the cost of repairs and submit documentation to be reimbursed by the manufacturer. However, when buying parts, you must ensure you use manufacturer-approved parts. If you run a Carrier system and use Trane parts to repair it, you may void the warranty and have to cover all future repair costs.
5. You Don’t Have Documentation
Much like with any other appliance in your home, it is important to keep accurate records of everything that happens with the system. In this record, you should have receipts to show proof of purchase for the system, documentation of the installation and maintenance by a reputable HVAC professional, and any additional information from the installer. Without proper documentation proving that you’ve provided comprehensive care to the system, you may void your HVAC warranty when you contact the manufacturer for support.
6. You Damaged the System
This may seem like a given, but your warranty only covers damage from regular system use. If something occurs to damage the system outside of regular use, including a home flood or natural disaster, your HVAC warranty is not responsible for those repairs. In situations where a natural disaster or home flood may void your HVAC warranty, it is best to reach out to your homeowner’s insurance company to discuss replacement or repairs.
7. You Moved Your System During Renovations
If you are in the process of planning a renovation or remodel, it is important to understand that your HVAC warranty only covers the system while it is in the place it was when installed. If you plan to move your utility room and any systems within, this move can void your HVAC warranty. This void occurs due to the risk you face of damaging the system while moving it to its new location.
8. You Performed Repairs Yourself
If you believe the problem in your HVAC system is minor enough that you can repair it yourself, you must understand this may void your HVAC warranty. Outside of changing your filters, a trained and licensed HVAC professional must perform many of the major repairs within the system. They have the expertise to protect the system from further damage, making this an essential step in protecting your home’s HVAC system.
Protect Your Idaho Falls HVAC System
If you just purchased a new heater or air conditioning unit for your Idaho Falls home and don’t want to void your HVAC warranty, turn to our team at Ridgeline Heating & Cooling for support. With over 50 years of combined experience, we have the training and experience that makes us the perfect choice for your repairs. Our team is equipped to handle everything from seasonal maintenance to minor and major repairs.
If you need to schedule HVAC maintenance or repairs to protect your system, don’t hesitate to contact us today.