Compare top home warranty plans covering HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and appliances. Expert guidance on finding the best coverage at the right price.
Get Free Home Warranty Quote →A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear. Unlike homeowners insurance (which covers sudden damage from events like fire or storms), a home warranty covers the mechanical breakdown of systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, plus appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and washers/dryers.
When a covered item fails, you call your warranty company, they dispatch a pre-screened contractor from their network, and you pay only the service fee ($60–$125). The warranty company pays the contractor for all covered repair or replacement costs — potentially saving you thousands on a single claim.
| Company | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | HVAC Coverage | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Home Shield | $29–$89/mo | $100–$125 | Unlimited — best in class | ⭐ 4.6/5 |
| Choice Home Warranty | $46–$55/mo | $85 | $3,000 cap | ⭐ 4.4/5 |
| Select Home Warranty | $44–$48/mo | $60–$75 | $2,000 cap | ⭐ 4.3/5 |
| First American | $38–$78/mo | $75–$125 | $1,500 cap | ⭐ 4.3/5 |
| 2-10 Home Buyers | $19–$63/mo | $65–$100 | $5,000 cap | ⭐ 4.2/5 |
These two products cover entirely different things and work together to protect your home comprehensively. Home insurance covers sudden damage from external events (fire, storm, theft, liability). Home warranty covers mechanical breakdown of systems and appliances from normal wear and tear. Mortgage lenders require home insurance — home warranty is optional but highly recommended for homes 5+ years old.
For most homeowners with homes 5+ years old, yes. The calculation is simple: HVAC replacement ($3,500–$10,000) + water heater ($800–$2,000) + appliance repairs ($300–$1,500 each) vs $600–$1,200/year in premiums plus $60–$125 service fees. One HVAC replacement pays for 5–15 years of home warranty premiums. Value is highest for older homes with aging systems and lowest for new construction where everything is still under manufacturer warranty.
Everything you need to make a confident decision
Compare top home warranty plans covering HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and appliances. Expert guidance on finding the best coverage at the right price.
Get Free Home Warranty Quote — Free, No Obligation →