Appliances are some of the hardest-working machines in your home. When they break down, it can throw a wrench in your routine and budget.
A home warranty company can help you protect your household appliances by covering the cost of repairs and replacements. You may be wondering, “What does homeowners warranty cover?” Learn more about these plans to decide if they are the right choice for you.
Warranty Coverage
A home appliance warranty can cover the cost of repairs or replacements for appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear. A warranty provider typically sends a technician to examine the appliance and determine whether it can be repaired or if it must be replaced. If it is determined that the appliance cannot be repaired, the provider may offer to replace it with a similar model.
Manufacturers often include a limited warranty on new appliances, while retailers sell extended warranties to customers who buy their products. These warranties cover repair or replacement costs for a set time period. Home warranties and appliance extended warranties are different, but they can both provide homeowners with access to experienced service technicians and reduce the amount of money that homeowners spend on repair costs.
A homeowner who wants to purchase a protection plan should thoroughly assess the terms and conditions of each option before making a decision. It is also a good idea to speak with other homeowners and read online reviews before selecting an appliance extended warranty or home warranty provider.
Exclusions
Home warranty companies offer coverage for appliances that aren’t covered by a manufacturer’s protection plan or your homeowner’s insurance policy. Home warranties cover the functionality of your household systems and appliances and help you avoid draining your emergency fund when something breaks down. Home insurance, on the other hand, protects your house and personal property against catastrophes like natural disasters, theft, and vandalism.
You can also purchase appliance extended warranties to cover your home appliances for a longer period of time. These warranties, however, typically differ from home warranties in that they only cover one appliance at a time and often come with additional terms and conditions. Read the policies carefully to assess whether these plans are right for your household. You should also consider alternatives to these warranties, such as a homeowner’s insurance policy, when deciding on your options for home appliance repair. Buying an insurance plan may be more affordable in the long run.
Repairs
While a protection plan might save you money, it’s important to carefully examine the terms and conditions to determine whether a home appliance warranty is worth your time. Many of these plans require a service fee or enrollment charge upon signing up, and some include extensive fine print that explains when a repair or replacement won’t be covered. In addition, some warranties only cover the cost of the branded appliance, while others replace it with an identical model.
The best way to save on repairs is by keeping up with regular maintenance, including removing dust from refrigerator coils and cleaning the lint trap in your dryer. In addition, most systems and appliances come with manufacturer warranties for a specified period of time that can also help you cut costs. In most cases, an extended home appliance warranty isn’t necessary if your appliances have manufacturer warranties. If your appliance has a limited warranty period, an extended warranty may be worthwhile.
Replacements
Home warranties often cover the repair or replacement of appliances and systems that break down due to normal wear and tear. When you file a service request, the provider will send a vetted contractor to your home to diagnose and fix the problem. However, you should review cost, coverage, claims processes and customer reviews before choosing a home warranty provider.
Unlike protection plans purchased through retailers, home warranty companies offer coverage for multiple appliances and systems throughout your home. Although they share some similarities with home insurance policies in terms of premiums, deductibles and coverage limits, they’re different in nature. While a home appliance warranty covers appliances and system breakdowns due to normal wear and tear, a home insurance policy protects your home against damage from fire or other natural disasters. Both services can be an excellent addition to your budget but should be carefully compared before making a decision.
