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What Voids an HVAC Warranty and How You Can Avoid It

What Voids an HVAC Warranty and How You Can Avoid It

HVAC repairs are expensive; we all know that. Data from Angi and HomeAdvisor suggest normal HVAC repairs cost $500 to $1,000 in Pennsylvania. The complex problems cost even more, and if it needs replacements, the cost burden can be extremely high. This is where homeowners see warranties as a green sign. HVAC warranties ease the cost burden and compensate for the equipment and installation costs. Many homeowners and business managers in Pennsylvania void their HVAC warranties due to minor mistakes made unintentionally. This is where having the right knowledge of warranties, red flags, and the best practices for keeping them active is essential. 

This blog covers the information on what mistakes void HVAC warranties and how homeowners can prevent those mistakes.

Mistakes That Void HVAC Warranties

The list can be long. But we will mention only those that we have noticed as primary culprits while working on Lehigh HVAC projects.

Neglected Maintenance

Maintenance is perhaps the most critical part to keep your warranties active. A slight negligence in maintenance and you are forced to experience major breakdowns. The best practice is to keep a close look at your system. Replace air filters regularly. You can do it yourself. Every month or a maximum of every three months if the filters are of good thickness. Then comes the cleaning part. Keep the unit completely clean, free from dust, dirt, and buildup. If you ignore this simple maintenance, the manufacturer may discontinue the equipment warranty.

Improper HVAC Modification

HVAC modifications are required at frequent times. But if they are not done the right way, according to manufacturer guidelines, they may end up in big trouble. If you know about HVAC systems and are pretty sure to handle the work, trying it yourself is not bad. But remember, it can still be risky because modern HVAC systems are much more complex to handle. They contain a labyrinth of multiple interconnected, minute components that need a meticulous approach to set them. If you end up making improper HVAC modifications, you are at risk of voiding warranties.

Attempting DIYs

As we mentioned in the first section, HVAC repairs are getting more and more expensive every passing day. This spike in prices leads many homeowners to try to fix things on their own. While a DIY is still not a bad choice, it can result in bigger problems sometimes. At Lehigh HVAC, we suggest that our clients never try fixing things on their own if they don’t know much about HVAC. Especially when you are dealing with some critical, expensive components such as the heat exchanger of the furnace and the compressor of the air conditioner, trying a DIY without a manufacturer-approved approach is not safe. In short, DIY can void your HVAC warranties when not done accurately.

Hiring Unlicensed Contractors

This is just like DIY. Because when you hand over your expensive HVAC to someone who is not knowledgeable, experienced, or licensed, you are again at risk. A technician who is not certified, no matter how good he is at hand skills, doesn’t know the nitty-gritty details. There is a strong likelihood he will do more harm than good, actually. To prevent voiding warranties, always hire a registered, licensed, and authorized technician for the work.

Failing to Register the Equipment

Equipment registration is generally a part of the installation process, and your contractor should automatically do it just after completing installation. But having a second look is still recommended. If the technician has not done it by mistake, get your equipment registered with the manufacturing company at your earliest convenience. The other important thing is to use accurate equipment, installation, and component information to prevent future confusion.

How to Prevent Voiding HVAC Warranties

The thumb rule is to prevent making all the aforementioned mistakes. Here are some additional tips and tricks to keep your warranties active, as recommended by Lehigh HVAC experts.

  • Do basic maintenance yourself every month or, preferably, every 15 days
  • Check air filters every 30 days and replace them whenever you notice visible buildup
  • Keep the outdoor unit clean and clear of any obstructions
  • Always hire a licensed contractor for HVAC repairs and part replacements
  • Register your appliance at your earliest convenience with the manufacturer
  • Use only manufacturer-approved replacement parts whenever required

Call Lehigh HVAC for Professional Assistance

Lehigh HVAC has been serving Pennsylvania with on-demand services for over 11 years. We are available any time, anywhere in Pennsylvania, with quick arrival times, in-depth diagnoses, and on-the-spot fixes. Contact us whenever you need professional HVAC assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions:

It can, depending on the manufacturer's warranty terms and the circumstances of the failure. Neglecting required maintenance may lead to problems that are excluded from coverage, so follow the manufacturer's maintenance requirements and keep records of professional service.

HVAC installation should generally be performed by a properly qualified professional. Incorrect installation can affect safety, system performance, energy efficiency, building-code compliance, and warranty coverage. Many manufacturers also have specific installation requirements that must be followed.

Equipment registration may be required to receive the full warranty period offered by some manufacturers. Failing to register the equipment does not always eliminate all warranty coverage, but it may reduce the available coverage period or benefits. Check the specific manufacturer's registration requirements and deadlines.

Use replacement parts that are approved or specified by the equipment manufacturer and are compatible with your particular model. Using incorrect, incompatible, or unauthorized parts may affect system performance and, in some cases, warranty coverage.

Yes. Keep your purchase receipt, model and serial numbers, installation documentation, warranty registration confirmation, and maintenance and repair records. These documents can make it easier to verify warranty eligibility and support a claim if a covered problem occurs.