Part 2 of a 3-Part Series: What You’re Not Being Told About HVAC Warranties – Link to Part 1
You just bought a house.
The HVAC system looks new.
The listing says it’s “still under warranty.”
But here’s the problem: that warranty may not be transferred to you at all.
We’ve seen this happen more times than we’d like to count. The new owner calls us after moving in, thinking they’re covered — and they’re not. Either the warranty was non-transferable, or the transfer window quietly expired during the closing process.
It’s a frustrating surprise, especially when something breaks in year six or seven and the parts should’ve been covered.
Not All HVAC Warranties Transfer
Most homeowners assume that if the system is still under warranty, it automatically follows the home. In reality, every manufacturer handles this differently. Some offer transferability — but only if it’s completed within a strict window (usually 30 to 90 days after closing). Others require a transfer fee, paperwork, or proof of ownership change. And a few brands? They don’t allow transfers at all.
If no action is taken during that timeframe, the extended warranty often drops off, leaving the new owner with a basic five-year parts warranty that started on the original install date. That means if the system is six or seven years old, the new owner may already be outside the window for any coverage at all.
What You Can Do Before You Buy
If you’re house hunting (or helping someone who is), this is something worth asking about before closing the deal. Start with the basics:
- What brand is the HVAC system?
- When was it installed?
- Was it registered by the original installer or homeowner?
- Is the warranty transferable — and if so, what’s the process?
Most manufacturers offer online tools where you can verify registration and warranty status using the model and serial number. Don’t assume — ask for documentation or check it yourself. If the seller or their agent isn’t sure, that’s a red flag worth following up on.
What to Do After You Move In
If the system is eligible for transfer, don’t wait.
Visit the manufacturer’s website, complete the transfer form (if applicable), and keep a copy of any confirmation or email for your records. Some brands allow you to mail in a form; others make it simple with a quick online submission. A few may charge a small fee, but it’s worth it to avoid a big repair bill later.
We’ve had homeowners call us just a few weeks after their transfer window closed, and unfortunately, there’s usually nothing the manufacturer can do. That’s why taking care of it right away matters.
One More Thing to Ask Your Realtor or Seller
If the HVAC system looks brand new, ask who installed it — and whether the system was ever registered in the first place. Some installations never get properly registered, which means you may not even have the basic coverage. At Northwest HVAC, we register every system we install and give homeowners a printed confirmation as part of the final paperwork. But not every contractor does that.
If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to help check the warranty status for systems in our area.
Bottom Line
HVAC warranties don’t always transfer with the sale of a home — and in many cases, the window to make that happen closes fast. A quick call or a few minutes of research could save you hundreds (or thousands) later.
If you’ve already bought the home, don’t panic — check the system’s serial number, visit the manufacturer’s website, and see where things stand. If you’re still house shopping, add these HVAC questions to your list before you make the final offer.
Because when it comes to warranties, the fine print matters more than most people realize.
Next in Part 3:
What most HVAC warranties don’t cover — and the common mistakes that can void them.