Homeownership is not an easy task. We need to track our expenses while maintaining our appliances and plumbing system. However, I can assure you that our appliance warranties are the last thing on your mind. When anything breaks, such as your water heater, understanding what the warranty covers might differ between getting it fixed promptly and for little or no out-of-pocket expense.
Does My Water Heater Have A Basic Warranty?
We’ll examine what a warranty is and give some helpful guidelines and recommendations on deciding what does and doesn’t get covered. But, of course, the last thing you want to do is shuffle through a warranty to try and figure out if your appliance is covered. By definition, a warranty is a written guarantee to the purchaser of a product by the manufacturer, promising the purchaser to repair or replace the defective product within a specified period.
What Is a Warranty, Exactly?
Let’s start from the top. A warranty protects a homeowner against a faulty appliance, and in some cases, it will protect a homeowner against the entire plumbing system. The product guarantee protects the buyer against any expenditures incurred due to such unplanned repairs. When a product needs repair or replacement, the manufacturer’s warranty ensures coverage within the agreed-upon term, but only if the repairs or replacement result from a faulty product or part. The warranty does not cover incorrect installation or use. As a result, most warranties have restrictions on the length of coverage and the amount of coverage.
How Do Warranties on Water Heaters Work?
The manufacturer provides a warranty when you buy a new water heater. In most circumstances, you’ll need to activate it within 30 days after purchase by registering the serial number. If you’re purchasing an older home, you should have the water heater inspected and the heater’s age checked. It would be a plus to have a relatively recent warranty. If the sellers don’t have a copy of the warranty, you can find the information online. If you’re looking online for warranty information, have the unit’s brand, model, and serial number handy. However, unfortunately not all water heater warranties are transferrable when a house gets sold. Check the details of your warranty to verify if my water heater is covered.
How Long Do Warranties on Water Heaters Last?
The majority of warranties last for about 3 – 8 years. Nevertheless, this will typically vary depending on the manufacturer and usage terms. For example, the average water heater should last between 8 – 12 years, but that will depend on water quality, usage, and maintenance. On the other hand, a tankless on-demand water heater may last 20 years or more. In most cases, a manufacturer’s warranty provides a reasonable guarantee that will cover you for a major portion of the product’s life.
Warranties for Water Heaters
Three different types of warranties cover water heaters. However, deciphering the small print might be challenging. Here’s what you need to know about the three most common water heater warranties:
Appliance Warranty: The manufacturer provides you with your initial appliance warranty. Warranties will vary based on the model and manufacturer of the water heater. If my water heater breaks down because of user error, all repairs and replacement parts may not be covered under your original warranty. Furthermore, you could nullify any warranty on your heater if an unlicensed plumbing contractor completed the installation.
Extra Warranty Protection: Many manufacturers provide extended warranty options at the point of purchase as an add-on to our original warranty. In some cases, you can purchase an extended warranty if your warranty is about to expire. This option often extends your current plan’s coverage for an additional 1 to 3 years. This gives you the peace of mind that your product will be covered for a longer length of time before it needs replacing altogether.
Home Warranty: A house warranty allows you to safeguard any or all of your home’s key systems and appliances (including my water heater). These warranties frequently cover things like human errors and lack of maintenance that don’t usually get covered by an appliance or even your home insurance.
What Water Heater Is Right For My Home?
Every homeowner has their own unique demands for their home; for example, some prefer a storage heater while others want the latest tankless heater. Use, cost, efficiency, and size will determine which water heater and warranty are best for your home. Your local Big B’s Plumbing technician can assist you in determining your home’s requirements and whether you have adequate coverage.
I Need A Top-Notch Technician To Find My Water Heater
We have the knowledge and experience to help you decipher your water heater warranty and tell you exactly what your warranty covers. We can also offer long-term solutions right for you and your home. Call us today at (951) 397-0360 or make an appointment online. We’ll always give you the service you deserve.
