Living in Florida comes with its share of joys: sandy beaches, sunny days, and vibrant communities. But it is not all paradise like it seems, as the Sunshine State’s unique climate also brings challenges for homeowners. For this reason, a home warranty in Florida is a must for those wishing for stress-free homeownership.
Though the beachside lifestyle is enviable, it can push your air conditioning systems to the brink. High humidity and frequent rainfall can take a toll on roofs and appliances. Needless to say, the hurricane season adds an extra layer of unpredictability.
Keeping up with unexpected repairs is not only stressful but also burns a hole in your pocket. Home warranties shield your appliances year-round, so you can enjoy all that Florida offers. Ready to find out how it works and what is covered? Let’s explore this in detail.
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Why do you Need to Invest in a Home Warranty?
As per a report by the U.S Energy Information Administration, Florida households consume 40% more energy than the national average, with half going toward appliances and lighting. Air conditioning solely accounts for 54% of the electricity usage, the highest share among all states.
In such times of high energy demands, a warranty ensures your important appliances, like the AC, stay in working order, especially during the hottest months. The key advantages are summarized below:
Save big on repairs
Repairs and replacements of an appliance can be costly, but a warranty can significantly reduce those expenses. It covers major systems and protects your finances from unexpected surprises.
Lets you enjoy a stress-free homeownership
Home warranties offer the reassurance that sudden malfunctions won’t derail your day. Whether it is a faulty air conditioner, an electrical issue, or a broken kitchen appliance, you know you are covered. You can relax knowing that these problems are addressed quickly and professionally.
Convenient services at your fingertips
Convenience is another added advantage of home warranties. You need not go through the trouble of searching for a reliable contractor. Your warranty provider handles the process by connecting you with qualified professionals from their network of contractors. An assigned expert will visit your home to assess and fix the issue promptly.
Increases the value of your home
Planning to sell your home? Having a home warranty in Florida makes your property more attractive to buyers. It adds more value to your home and helps you close the deal faster. Buyers are more likely to agree to your asking price when they know there is coverage for essential systems and appliances.
How do Warranties for Homes in Florida Work?
Home warranties should not be confused with manufacturer warranties. It provides coverage for various systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear, regardless of their age or brand.
For a clearer picture, here is a simple example of how these plans work.
A Real-Life Example of a Home Warranty Use
Picture this: you have just settled into your new Florida home, enjoying the sunny weather and your pool. But then, the air conditioner breaks down in the middle of a scorching summer day. Without a warranty, you would be left to deal with expensive repairs on your own. The thought of replacing it or paying for expensive repairs can be overwhelming. Isn’t it?
Now, imagine you have a warranty plan in place. You call your warranty provider, and within hours, a licensed technician is at your door to fix the AC. Instead of paying hundreds of dollars, all you have to pay is a small service fee. Thus, a warranty makes your life a lot easier and keeps your home cool during Florida’s heatwave.
What’s included and what’s not in home warranties?
The coverage mainly includes the essential systems and appliances you use daily. However, home warranty coverage can differ from one company to another. Most offer plans that cover both systems and appliances, but you can also choose a system-only or appliance-only plan if that works better for you.
With a system-only plan, you typically get coverage for these systems:
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- Heating
- Cooling
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Water heaters
- Ductwork
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Appliance-only plans generally cover:
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- Oven/range/stove/cooktop
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher
- Washer and dryer
- Built-in microwave
- Garbage disposal
- Garage door opener
- Ceiling Fan
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Types of Repairs a Home Warranty in Florida Covers
Think of a home warranty as extra protection beyond your home insurance. It covers your home systems and appliances if they break down due to regular use. When you weigh its cost against the possible repair bills, it is often a wise investment. Here is a list of common repairs it might cover.
HVAC Unit Failures
We have all been there – sudden HVAC breakdown during extreme weather! Let’s not deny this – repair or replacement costs can be steep, ranging from $350 to $5500. With a home appliance warranty, though, you can breathe easy knowing HVAC repairs or replacements are covered.
Washer or Dryer Breakdowns
A leaking washer or malfunctioning dryer can throw your day into chaos. Repairing or replacing these appliances can cost hundreds of dollars, sometimes up to $650.
Thankfully, home warranties cover most parts and components of your washer and dryer. Also, you don’t have to stress when something goes wrong. With coverage in place, you can focus on tackling that laundry pile, not worrying about repair bills.
Refrigerator Repair
Let’s be honest – we can’t get through a day without a refrigerator. It is unthinkable! It keeps the food fresh so when it stops working, you’re not just dealing with a broken appliance, but you could also lose money on spoiled groceries. While some fixes are small, others can be costly.
Home warranties often cover repairs for issues like water leaks, ice makers, water filters, evaporator fans, and thermostats. Even better? Some plans extend coverage to additional fridges, so you are fully protected.
Issues with the Plumbing System
If you’re dealing with a blocked drain or leaky faucet, a home warranty in Florida can help take the burden off your shoulders. While most common plumbing leaks are included, issues caused by collapsed pipes, foreign objects, or the home’s infrastructure won’t be covered. Still, your warranty can save you time and money for typical drain clogs.
Water Heater Not Working
When your water heater stops functioning properly, it can disrupt your daily routine. Also, the cost of a new one adds up quickly. A house warranty covers the repair or replacement of essential parts, like the tank and thermal expansion tanks, keeping things hot when you need them most.
Will a Home Warranty Replace an Appliance if it can’t be repaired?
Yes, the best part about a warranty is that if a repair doesn’t fix the problem, it will replace the item instead. However, you need to keep the following things in mind:
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- Go through your policy details: This will help you to understand what exactly is covered when a replacement is provided.
- Pre-existing conditions: Your warranty company will not replace the item if the issue existed before you purchased the warranty.
- Normal wear and tear: Replacement is made only on issues caused by everyday wear and tear.
How do you Find the Right Warranty Provider in Florida?
Understanding the value of a homeowner’s warranty is only the first step. The next is finding a provider in Florida that fits your needs. Here’s how to spot the right one for your home.
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- Budget-Friendly Plan: Look for a warranty company that offers flexible plans (monthly or yearly) and doesn’t break the bank. Make sure their coverage includes all your major appliances and systems.
- Comprehensive Coverage: A great warranty should have your back on all the important appliances, so you’re not left dealing with surprise repair costs. It is all about minimizing those out-of-pocket expenses when something breaks.
- 24/7 Claims Support: Choose a company that offers around-the-clock claims support. You don’t want to be stuck waiting for help when your fridge decides to take a vacation.
- Skilled Local Technicians: Check if the provider uses highly trained and experienced local contractors to ensure prompt and quality repairs for your covered items.
Key Takeaway
In Florida, the climate puts extra strain on home systems and appliances. Breakdowns are inevitable, but with a warranty in place, you’re never on your own. It is a great way to prepare for the unexpected, safeguard your budget, and ease your mind. From your AC to your fridge and other everyday appliances, a home warranty in Florida gives homeowners the confidence and peace that repairs are in capable hands.
With Select Home Warranty, you have a home protection partner you can count on. Our trusted network of service contractors ensures high-quality repairs whenever you need them. That’s the kind of protection every homeowner deserves. Let us take the worry out of home repairs so you can enjoy your Florida home to the fullest.
