📌 Key Takeaway: A comprehensive home warranty covers: HVAC (heating and cooling), plumbing, electrical, water heater, refrigerator, dishwasher, oven/range, washer/dryer, and garage door opener. Universal exclusions: pre-existing conditions known at purchase, cosmetic damage, improper installation, and items not maintained according to manufacturer guidelines.
What Home Warranties Typically Cover
| System/Appliance | Typically Covered | Watch For |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC (heating) | Yes — most plans | Per-system caps, refrigerant exclusions |
| HVAC (air conditioning) | Yes — most plans | Age limits with some companies |
| Plumbing (stoppages) | Yes | Ground-up plumbing often excluded |
| Electrical system | Yes | Code upgrades usually excluded |
| Water heater | Yes | Sediment damage often excluded |
| Refrigerator | Yes — comprehensive plans | Built-in ice makers vary |
| Dishwasher | Yes | Racks and door seals often excluded |
| Oven/range/cooktop | Yes | Knobs, handles, glass often excluded |
| Washer and dryer | Yes — comprehensive plans | Some plans are add-on only |
| Garage door opener | Yes — most plans | Door itself typically excluded |
| Roof leaks | Select plans only | American Home Shield Platinum includes |
| Pool/spa | Add-on — extra cost | Not included in base plans |
Common Home Warranty Exclusions
- Pre-existing conditions: Defects that existed before the warranty start date
- Cosmetic damage: Scratches, dents, rust, or discoloration
- Improper installation: Issues resulting from non-standard or DIY installation
- Lack of maintenance: Failure to maintain systems per manufacturer guidelines
- Code violations: Bringing systems up to current building codes
- Outdoor plumbing: Sprinkler systems, outdoor faucets, ground-level piping
- Secondary damage: Damage caused by a covered failure (e.g., water damage from covered leak)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does home warranty cover appliances over 10 years old?
American Home Shield explicitly states no age limits — they cover systems and appliances regardless of age if they were properly maintained. Most other companies cover older appliances but may apply lower replacement caps. Verify age policy before buying — some companies refuse coverage for appliances over 10–15 years old or charge higher premiums.
Does home warranty cover partial breakdowns?
Yes — a home warranty covers the specific component that failed, not necessarily the entire system. If a capacitor fails in your HVAC, the warranty covers the capacitor replacement. If the compressor fails, that's covered too. Coverage applies to the specific failed component — the company decides whether repair or full replacement is most cost-effective.