A home warranty is a valuable asset for homeowners, protecting against costly repairs and replacements of home systems and appliances. However, many homeowners may need to realize how regular maintenance intersects with home warranty coverage. Understanding this relationship is crucial to making the most of your warranty and ensuring the longevity of your home’s components.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your home in good condition and can impact your home warranty. Most home warranty providers expect homeowners to properly maintain their home’s systems and appliances. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to warranty claims being denied for improper care.
What Does Regular Maintenance Entail?
Regular maintenance includes routine checks and upkeep of various home systems and appliances. For instance, cleaning or replacing air filters, servicing your HVAC system, checking for leaks and drips in plumbing, and ensuring that appliances are used according to manufacturer guidelines. These actions help prevent breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your home components.
How Maintenance Affects Warranty Claims
When you file a claim with your home warranty provider, they may inquire about the maintenance history of the item in question. If a breakdown is due to a lack of maintenance, your claim might be denied. Keeping a record of maintenance activities can be beneficial in such scenarios.
Professional Maintenance vs. DIY
Professional maintenance is recommended for some tasks. Complex systems like HVAC or electrical systems might require a professional’s touch. However, simple tasks like cleaning or minor upkeep can often be handled by homeowners.
Regular maintenance is not just about keeping your home running smoothly but also about ensuring that your home warranty remains in effect when needed. By understanding your home warranty terms, performing routine maintenance, and keeping records of your maintenance activities, you can avoid unexpected denials of coverage. Ultimately, combining regular maintenance with a home warranty provides a comprehensive approach to protecting your home and your wallet.