Do home warranties cover trash compactors?
Check trash compactor coverage to avoid costly surprises later
Appliance breakdowns can be unpleasant experiences that leave you with unexpected expenses. However, a home warranty plan may be able to help. Many home warranties provide coverage for parts and repairs on a variety of kitchen appliances, such as trash compactors. Read on to learn some helpful tips on how to get the best coverage for your trash compactor.
Many home warranty plans only cover the main components of trash compactors.
Jump to insightSome companies only offer trash compactor coverage as an add-on.
Jump to insightMany home warranty plans have limitations and exclusions.
Jump to insightWhat trash compactor services does a home warranty cover?
Many home warranty plans cover various appliances, including trash compactors. The parts coverage varies, but usually, the main components are covered. However, most contracts only cover total breakdowns due to normal wear and tear, so it’s important to understand what your home warranty will cover.
Here is a list of items usually covered by a home warranty:
- Motors
- Control panels
- Doors
- Gears and chains
- Seals
- Latches
- Switches
Potential exclusions to trash compactor home warranty coverage
Even if your home warranty plan provides coverage for trash compactors, there are still some reasons your claim may be denied. Here are some things not typically covered by a home warranty contract that can lead to coverage denial:
- Lock assembly
- Acts of god
- Damage that doesn’t result in full mechanical failure
- Consequential or secondary damage
- Improper installation
- Preexisting conditions
- Commercial parts
- Mold and mildew
- Pet, pest or animal damage
- Rollers
- Racks
- Cosmetic damage
- Damage from misuse or abuse
Coverage caps
Many home warranty companies have coverage caps in their contract. This means that the company will only pay up to a certain amount for parts and repairs, and then you must pay the rest.
Trash compactors usually have a $500 to $1,500 coverage cap per coverage term. For example, if your repair costs $400 and the limit is $800, then you would still have $400 left to use on other claims for that coverage term. If your repair cost was $900, you would have to pay the remaining $100.
What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover trash compactors
There are other options if you find out your home warranty doesn’t cover trash compactors. Coverage may be offered in a different plan package or as an add-on option. This will add to your home warranty costs but may be worth the coverage. Additionally, if your trash compactor is new, it usually comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.
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.
Do home warranties cover trash compactors?
Yes, many home warranties cover repairs and replacements for trash compactors, but coverage depends on your plan.
What is the average life span of a trash compactor?
The average trash compactor has a life span of seven to 12 years with proper maintenance.
Bottom line
Trash compactors cost between $200 and $2,000 and can last up to 12 years or more. A home warranty can help with costly expenses on parts and repairs and keep your appliance running smoothly for years to come.
Article sources
- Porch, “Do Home Warranties Cover Trash Compactors?” Accessed April 4, 2024.
- Rocket Homes, “The Average Lifespan Of Household Appliances.” Accessed April 4, 2024.
