 Before purchasing a central air conditioner, ask about--and read--the warranty and be sure you understand the terms. Warranties can vary significantly from one manufacturer to another. And a warranty may cover most of the unit under one set of terms or offer differing coverage to various parts of the air conditioner. For example, Whirlpool covers all parts of the mechanical and refrigeration systems (except the air filter) for 5 years, including labor. Carrier covers the air conditioning unit and authorized labor for repair or replacement for one year. With Carrier, the refrigeration components, including the compressor, condensor, evaporator, connecting tubing, and refrigeration charge--including labor for repair or replacement--are covered for years 2 through 5 under an extended warranty. For parts such as the motor, solenoid, relays, switches, and fans, a warranty may not cover labor.And then there is the "Limited Lifetime Warranty." Amana, for example, offers this and will cover the compressor of a high-efficiency air conditioner or heat pump for as long as you own the house. The bottom line is to read the warranty and understand what it does and does not cover. Be advised that an air conditioner warranty will be voided if a non-authorized service person alters the appliance. A warranty does not cover standard maintenance, cleaning, or damage that is caused by negligance of basic maintenance prescribed by the owner's manual or by physical damage to the unit. By selecting a system that is tailored to your family’s needs and backed by a strong warranty, you can enjoy years of comfort worry-free.
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