When you buy a new heating or cooling system, you get a warranty, either from the contractor or the manufacturer. This warranty offers coverage for a variety of things, such as certain repairs, faulty equipment, and major parts replacement. However, while these warranties provide coverage, it’s possible that they can be voided. The cause of the void doesn’t have to be the homeowner’s fault. Even an inadvertent mistake can lead to a warranty’s coverage ending. Fortunately, there are ways to ensure this doesn’t happen. Here are the ways a HVAC warranty can be voided.
Using Off-Brand Parts
There may be times when your HVAC system needs repairs done. When there are issues with parts, manufacturers almost always recommend using original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, parts in their devices. However, some technicians use generic parts instead of those suggested by the manufacturer. Doing this can cause the warranty to be voided. While the majority of third-party products are safe, there’s no guarantee that they will work specifically with the HVAC unit. To prevent this, check with your contractor to confirm they stock the correct parts the unit needs.
HVAC Installation Not Correct
When you decide to purchase a new HVAC unit, you want to make sure that a contractor installs it right the first time. You face major issues by not having your system properly installed. In addition, manufacturers can cancel your warranty contract if they find system problems caused by improper installation or repair. You always want to make sure you hire a contractor that is familiar with specific equipment for installation.
Not Keeping Up With Maintenance
HVAC contractors will tell you how important it is to follow the maintenance schedule with your HVAC system. In addition to making sure that it is running at optimum levels, it can save money for homeowners in energy usage. Most warranties require proof of annual maintenance. This helps prevent the manufacturer from doing replacements or repairs that could have been avoided if maintenance was completed.
Not Documenting Maintenance
In addition to needing to keep with annual maintenance, many manufacturers request that you record your tune-ups. While it seems like a simple process, there are homeowners who face trouble when an issue occurs due to not being able to find documentation. Making sure that your documentation is in one place, like a file drawer or box, helps keep things organized. Furthermore, while it’s likely your contractor has documentation on file, it’s easier to have everything on hand yourself.
Doing Repairs Yourself
Every manufacturer of a heating and cooling system provides a set of guidelines for repairs that should be followed by a contractor. By doing this, it reduces the risk of damage to your HVAC unit. Using a contractor also prevents mistakes that can result from not following manufacturer instructions. If a mistake occurs from a contractor, they have insurance to cover the cost of the damage. However, doing the repairs yourself means you will have to deal with all the repair costs. In addition, a standard HVAC warranty doesn’t cover damage caused by incorrect wiring, flooding, or wrong hardware.
Preserv Your HVAC Warranty
In addition to needing to keep with annual maintenance, many manufacturers request that you record your tune-Maintaining an HVAC warranty is very easy to do. The biggest thing to know is to let professional contractors handle repairs and installation. In addition, you want to keep up with your HVAC maintenance schedule and have documentation available. Doing so will save you money as well as potential headaches.
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