Does a home warranty cover microwaves?
Check microwave coverage to avoid costly surprises later
Microwaves are a household staple many families use daily, and unexpected breakdowns can be a hassle. However, many home warranties provide coverage for microwaves and may be able to help with parts, repairs and replacements.
A new countertop microwave can cost anywhere from $100 to $600, and built-in or over-the-range microwaves can cost even more, so it's important to make sure it is running properly. Read on to learn some tips on how to get the best coverage for your microwave.
Many home warranty plans include built-in microwaves.
Jump to insightMost home warranties have exclusions for microwaves.
Jump to insightMicrowaves have coverage caps in their contracts.
Jump to insightWhat microwave services does a home warranty cover?
Home warranty companies typically cover a wide range of appliances, including built-in and over-the-range microwaves. Coverage is often found in the company’s appliance plan, though sometimes it’s an add-on.
Here are some things that a home warranty covers for microwaves:
- Components that affect the operation of the unit
- Total mechanical breakdowns
- Motors
- Compressors
- Heating elements
- Fuses
- Door seals
- Sensors
- Switches
- Bearings
Potential exclusions to microwave home warranty coverage
Many home warranty plans have limitations and exclusions that may lead to coverage denial. They usually only cover full mechanical breakdowns due to normal wear and tear and exclude things like weather damage.
Here are some other things home warranties don’t cover:
- Damage that doesn’t cause a full mechanical failure
- Consequential or secondary damage
- Commercial units
- Racks
- Runner guards
- Preexisting conditions
- Cosmetic damage
- Lights or light sockets
- Timers and clocks
- Knobs
- Interior lining
Coverage caps
Many home warranty plans have coverage caps on the amount they will spend on parts and repairs. If the cost of repairs exceeds the limit, you are liable for the remaining expenses.
Most home warranty companies cap the costs of repairs for built-in or over-the-range microwaves at around $1,500 to $3,000. For example, if your limit was $1,500 but the cost of repairs was $1,700, then you would be responsible for paying the remaining $200.
What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover microwaves
If your home warranty plan doesn’t cover microwaves, you may be able to switch to a plan that does. If you can’t upgrade your plan, you may have some other options. Many companies offer microwave coverage with an additional appliance add-on. This will add to your home warranty costs but may be worth it.
Most microwave ovens or built-in or countertop microwaves, also come with a one-year manufacturer warranty. So you may be able to contact the manufacturer for repairs.
FAQ
What does a home typically warranty cover?
Home warranties usually cover large appliances, built-in microwaves, water heaters and systems like HVACs, plumbing, ductwork, pool heaters and well pumps. Some plans also cover additional items like pest control, septic systems, central vacuums, sump pumps and more.
Are countertop microwaves covered by a home warranty?
No, usually, home warranties only cover built-in or over-the-range microwaves. A manufacturer’s warranty may cover countertop microwaves.
How much does it cost to replace a microwave?
The cost of replacing your microwave varies based on its type. Built-in microwaves typically range from $275 to $2,800, countertop microwaves from $55 to $1,000, over-the-range microwaves from $120 to $1,000, and drawer or cabinet microwaves from $880 to $2,000.
Bottom line
Unexpected breakdowns can be a hassle, but home warranties can help with parts and repairs. With the proper maintenance and coverage, your microwave could last around nine years. Also, double-check your policy to see if a manufacturer's warranty covers your microwave if your home warranty doesn’t provide coverage.
