Understanding a Water Heater Warranty
Homeowners don't often think about the water heater until it stops working. Warranties come in handy when looking to repair appliances at no cost.
Homeowners don't often think about the water heater until it stops working. Warranties come in handy when looking to repair appliances at no cost. Let's consider what's covered by a water heater warranty:
Understanding warranties
Sometimes, parts of the water heater could be defective due to an unforeseen issue. A product warranty assures the buyer that the manufacturer will cover the cost of repairs or replacements. However, this warranty is only applicable within a specific timeframe. It also only covers damage that resulted from a defective part and not an improper use of the item.
How do water heater warranties work?
In most cases, a manufacturer's warranty will be automatically activated 30 days after purchasing a water heater. However, it's necessary to register the appliance's serial number to trigger the contract in some cases.
When buying a new home, it's essential to ask a professional to inspect the water heater. If installed in the last three years, ask to go over the warranty. If the previous homeowner did not have a copy of the document, the details could be obtained online. However, it's essential to note that certain warranties may not cover the new owner when a property is sold.
Duration of water heater warranties
Most water heater warranties are typically valid for about 12 years. However, the manufacturer will determine the duration, depending on the appliance's lifespan. For instance, a standard water heater might last for up to 8 years, while a tankless one might be around for 20 years. Therefore, a manufacturer's warranty covers the heater for most of its lifespan.
Types of water heater warranty
There are several types of water heater warranties. Understanding these options can be a bit confusing. Let's take a look at them:
Manufacturer warranty
The first type of warranty is the one issued by the manufacturer. It usually covers replacement or repairs necessitated by a faulty unit. However, these types of warranties differ depending on the model and manufacturer. Most manufacturers won't cover damage that results from improper usage or installation by an unlicensed technician. It's therefore vital to ensure that a certified plumber installs the appliance.
Extended warranty
Many companies will provide an extended warranty if a warranty is about to expire. This typically covers the water heater for another one to three years.
Home warranty
A home warranty can provide additional coverage for various appliances and systems. These include the water heater.
Consult an expert
Water heaters are an essential part of the home. Contact a licensed plumber when needing repairs to ensure that the warranty isn't voided.
Much Better Plumbing is the premier residential and commercial plumbing service for homeowners and businesses in the Las Vegas area. We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Call us today at 702-996-5220.