Does a home warranty cover old appliances?
Check appliance coverage to avoid costly surprises later
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Old appliances mean breakdowns. No matter how well you care for your fridge or stove, it’s inevitable. If you want to protect yourself from unexpected repair bills, tapping your home warranty for fixes may be the answer. Here’s what you need to know.
Many home warranty companies cover old appliances.
Jump to insightYour contract typically has limitations and exclusions that could lead to a claim denial.
Jump to insightCoverage caps can limit how much the warranty company will pay for appliance repair or replacement.
Jump to insightWhat old appliance services does a home warranty cover?
Most home warranty companies cover older appliances. However, it's important to check your contract to ensure there aren’t any age stipulations. For example, your contract may cover a ten-year-old appliance but not a twenty-year-old appliance.
Coverage for old appliances is important because as appliances age, they become more prone to wear and tear and unexpected failures. Repair costs can quickly add up, especially for essential appliances like refrigerators, washers and dryers. Having a home warranty that includes old appliances helps protect your budget and provides peace of mind by covering repair or replacement costs when something breaks down.
Some appliances typically covered by a home warranty include:
- Built-in microwaves
- Refrigerators
- Stoves, ovens and cooktops
- Dishwashers
- Washers and dryers
- Garbage disposals
If you have coverage, your home warranty company will typically pay for the repairs or replacement of your appliance, including parts and labor. The company will also find a repair technician for you.
Potential exclusions to old appliance coverage
Most home warranty contracts have limitations and exclusions that could lead to a claim denial. Here are some examples of things that could get your claim denied:
- Cosmetic damage
- Damage from something other than normal wear and tear
- Improper installation
- Improper maintenance
- Appliances that are still covered by a manufacturer’s warranty
- High-end or professional-grade appliances
- Preexisting problems
Coverage caps
Coverage caps can also limit how much the warranty company will pay for appliance repair or replacement. For example, if your plan offers $2,000 worth of coverage for your fridge, and the repair costs $3,000, then you would need to pay the remaining $1,000.
What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover old appliances
If your home warranty plan doesn’t cover old appliances, you may be able to switch to a company that does. You should probably wait until your contract term is up, though, to avoid paying a cancellation fee. Even if the new home warranty company costs more, it can be worth it since appliance repairs can cost anywhere from $100 to $900 each.
Maintenance tips to ensure future coverage
Taking care of your appliances can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and improve your chances of getting coverage in the future. Many home warranty companies require proof of proper maintenance before approving claims. Here are some tips:
- Clean and service appliances regularly, such as changing refrigerator water filters and cleaning lint from dryer vents.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care.
- Keep maintenance records, including receipts and service logs.
- Schedule annual inspections for major appliances and systems.
- Address small issues right away to prevent larger problems later.
By practicing good maintenance habits, you can extend the life of your appliances and show warranty companies that your appliances have been properly cared for.
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.
Does a home warranty cover corroded pipes?
Typically, home warranty companies offer corroded pipe protection, but your coverage will vary depending on your package and the company.
Are water leaks covered under warranty?
No, water leaks are not covered under a home warranty, but your homeowner’s insurance may provide coverage.
Will a home warranty cover high-end appliances?
Some home warranty companies may cover high-end or professional-grade appliances, but this often comes with higher premiums and specific contract terms. You should always check your policy to see if these appliances are included or if you need additional coverage.
Do I need maintenance records for old appliances?
Yes, many home warranty companies require proof of proper maintenance before approving a claim for an old appliance. Keeping receipts, service logs and inspection records can help support your claim and increase the chances of approval.
Bottom line
Home warranties typically cover appliances regardless of age as long as they are in good working condition when the warranty is purchased. However, coverage for preexisting conditions or appliances that have not been properly maintained may be excluded.
It's important to review the terms and conditions of your home warranty contract to understand any limitations or exclusions related to the age of appliances.
