Are AC parts covered under warranty?

Yes. Most new air conditioners come with warranties covering major parts for several years, though labor coverage and some components vary by brand and installation. Always read your warranty certificate and keep records.

Understanding AC warranties

Understanding the basics of warranty terminology helps you know what to expect when a part fails. Warranties often distinguish between parts coverage and labor coverage, and they may require registration and regular maintenance.

What parts are typically covered

This list shows common coverage patterns for standard residential units. Exact terms vary by manufacturer and model, so check your contract.

• Compressor: typically covered for about 5–10 years; some brands offer longer terms or extended coverage if you register the unit and follow maintenance guidelines.


• Outdoor condenser coil and indoor evaporator coil: often covered for roughly 10–20 years or as part of a 10-year (or longer) parts warranty; some models offer a lifetime limit on certain coils.


• Fan motors and other major moving parts (capacitors, relays, fans): commonly 5–10 years, depending on the component and brand.


• Controls and board components (thermostats, control boards): usually 5–10 years; some premium units carry longer terms.


• Heat exchangers (in furnaces/air handlers) or refrigerant-related components: heat exchangers often carry longer warranties (10–20 years or lifetime on some models) and refrigerant-related coverage is frequently limited or excluded.

Note: Refrigerant charges and leaks are frequently excluded or covered only if caused by a manufacturing defect; coverage for labor is often separate from parts.

What isn't typically covered

Warranties also spell out exclusions. The following items are commonly excluded from standard parts warranties.

• Refrigerant charges or leaks caused by the system's normal operation or external damage; leaks may be only covered if due to a factory defect and under specific terms.


• Labor for installation, removal, or repair, unless the warranty package explicitly includes labor coverage (most do not).


• Damage due to improper maintenance, neglect, misuse, or accidental damage.


• Cosmetic damage, rust, or corrosion not related to a defect in materials or workmanship.


• Damage from power surges, improper electrical supply, or wiring installed by non-certified technicians.


• Damage from pre-existing conditions or units installed by non-authorized dealers; modifications or upgrades not approved by the manufacturer.

Always review the exact exclusions in your warranty document, because terms vary widely by brand and policy.

How to maximize warranty coverage

Take these steps to help ensure your warranty stays valid and that you receive the full benefits if a problem arises.

• Register the warranty within the manufacturer’s timeframe, and keep a copy of the registration confirmation.


• Schedule and document regular professional maintenance as required by your warranty terms.


• Keep all receipts, model/serial numbers, installation dates, and contractor information in a dedicated file.


• Use a licensed HVAC contractor who is authorized by the manufacturer; ensure proper installation and refrigerant handling.


• Use manufacturer-approved replacement parts and refrigerant; avoid DIY repairs that could void coverage.


• Report issues promptly and follow the claim process specified by the warranty provider.

Following these practices helps protect coverage and can speed up claims if a failure occurs.

How to file a warranty claim

If you need to file a claim, start with your installer or the manufacturer's service line; have your model/serial number, proof of purchase, installation date, and maintenance records ready.

• Contact the manufacturer or an authorized service provider to initiate a claim and schedule an inspection.


• Provide required documentation and describe the issue with as much detail as possible.


• Await guidance on repair or replacement and any allowed costs under the warranty terms.

Claims timelines and required documentation vary by provider, so check your warranty booklet for specifics.

Summary

AC warranties typically separate parts coverage from labor. Major components like the compressor and coils are often covered for several years, while refrigerant charges and labor may be limited or excluded. Since terms vary by brand, model, installation, and policy, review the specific warranty documents, maintain meticulous records, and adhere to installation and maintenance requirements to ensure you receive the intended protection.

What is not covered under an AC warranty?

An HVAC Warranty Doesn't Cover Weather-Related Damage
A surge protector is something we routinely install to help guard against electrical storm damage. It's much cheaper than replacing the entire unit. There are also things you can do to mitigate damage if you take care before bad weather.

What is covered under an AC warranty?

AC warranty coverage typically includes parts for defects in materials and workmanship, often for 5 to 10 years, but may not cover labor costs. Labor can be covered by separate labor warranties, extended service plans, or home warranties, which also may have specific terms and service fees. Standard warranties exclude issues from poor installation, lack of maintenance, or acts of nature. 
Standard manufacturer warranty

• Parts: Covers defects in materials or workmanship for components like the compressor, coils, and fan motor. 
• Duration: Typically 5 years, but can be extended to 10 years for certain components like the compressor, often requiring online registration within 60 to 90 days of installation. 
• Labor: Generally not included unless it's a special type of warranty. 

Extended and home warranties

• Parts and labor: These can provide coverage for both parts and labor costs, which can be a significant benefit as labor costs alone can be expensive. 
• Other coverage: Some plans may include additional benefits like coverage for refrigerant, tune-ups, or emergency service calls. 
• Cost: These plans usually have an annual cost and a service fee for each claim. 

What is typically not covered

• Routine maintenance and filter replacements
• Damage from improper installation or lack of maintenance
• Damage from acts of nature, power surges, or accidents
• Repairs or modifications performed by unauthorized personnel
• Non-original or unauthorized parts 

How to check your warranty

• Read the paperwork: Look for the warranty information in the documents that came with your AC unit. 
• Check online: Find your unit's serial and model number on the unit itself, then visit the manufacturer's website to use their warranty lookup tool. 
• Call the manufacturer: Contact customer service directly to confirm your coverage status. 

How long are AC parts under warranty?

Manufacturer's Warranty
This type of warranty is provided by the manufacturer of the HVAC unit and typically lasts between 5 to 10 years. It often includes: Parts Warranty: Covers the cost of replacement parts if they fail due to manufacturing defects.

What is the $5000 AC rule?

The "AC 5000 rule" is an HVAC industry guideline that suggests replacing an air conditioner if the result of multiplying its age by the estimated repair cost is over $5,000. If the result is under $5,000, a repair is likely the more cost-effective option for now. This is a simple starting point, and other factors like energy efficiency, repair history, and comfort should also be considered before making a final decision.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the 5K rule: 28sHVAC Guide for HomeownersYouTube · Feb 19, 2025
How to apply the rule

• Multiply: Take the age of your air conditioning unit in years and multiply it by the estimated cost of the repair. 
• Analyze the result:
  • If the total is greater than $5,000: Consider replacing the unit, as it may be more financially sound in the long run. 
  • If the total is less than $5,000: A repair is likely the better option, especially if the system has been reliable up to this point. 

Example

• A 12-year-old unit with a repair estimate of $600: 12×600=$7,20012 cross 600 equals $ 7 comma 20012×600=$7,200. Because this is over $5,000, replacement might be a better long-term investment. 
• A 5-year-old unit with a repair estimate of $500: 5×500=$2,5005 cross 500 equals $ 2 comma 5005×500=$2,500. Because this is under $5,000, a repair is probably the more economical choice. 

Other factors to consider

• Energy efficiency: A new system with a higher SEER rating can lead to significant savings on energy bills. 
• Frequency of repairs: If you are constantly needing repairs, the cost of individual repairs can add up to more than a new system. 
• Refrigerant type: Older units may use refrigerants like R-22, which are becoming more expensive due to being phased out. 
• Warranties: Check for any warranties on new systems or parts before making a decision. 

This video explains how to use the 5K rule for deciding whether to repair or replace your HVAC system: 58sServiceMark Heating Cooling & PlumbingYouTube · Jun 20, 2016