Home Warranty if AC Breaks Down

Keep Your Cool: The Benefits of Home Warranty Coverage for AC Systems

Few things are more frustrating than an air conditioner breaking down in the middle of summer. Along with being uncomfortable, it can quickly turn into a major financial headache. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of AC repair ranges from $130 to over $2,000—depending on the issue.

And if your unit needs to be replaced, that’s a whole different level of expense—often costing anywhere from nearly $4,000 to over $8,000.

A home warranty can help shield you from the financial smackdown a broken AC can bring. This guide covers everything you need to know about how home warranty coverage works for air conditioning, what’s not included, and how to choose the right plan so you’re ready before the summer heat arrives.

What Is a Home Warranty and How Does It Work?

A home warranty is often the first line of defense for your finances. It helps avoid a sudden shock to your budget when a major system or appliance fails. For example, air conditioners run hard in summer, and issues like broken blower motors or compressors can suddenly leave you sweltering for days. Without a warranty, paying for those repairs out of pocket can be overwhelming.

With a home warranty, your policy covers the cost of repairing or replacing covered items—like an aging AC or dishwasher—when they break down from normal wear and tear.

When something breaks, you simply file a claim with your warranty provider. They send an authorized technician. You pay a small service fee, and the warranty covers the rest (up to your plan limits).

For more on how a home warranty protects you, visit what is a home warranty.

Does a Home Warranty Cover AC Repairs or Replacement?

Most home warranty providers offer plans that bundle together coverage for key home appliances and systems—and central air conditioning is often included.

ARW Home, for example, offers two home warranty plans that cover HVAC systems, including central AC units: Platinum and Platinum Premier. If your home has multiple AC units, you can also extend your coverage with optional add-ons.

For older systems, home warranty plans, including ours, may offer a replacement or a cash allowance if repair parts are no longer available or if the cost of repair exceeds the current market value of the unit. This ensures you’re not stuck footing the entire bill for a major AC issue when your system reaches the end of its lifespan.

Common AC Issues Typically Covered

When your air conditioner starts acting up, the culprit might be one of its many core components.Here are some of the most common issues homeowners run into:

• Compressor failure:  If your AC is running but the air still feels warm, the compressor might be the issue. It’s responsible for circulating refrigerant through the system so it can remove heat from your home. When it fails, your AC can’t cool properly.
  
  
• Condenser malfunction:  Your AC’s condenser unit sits outside and works hard to release heat from inside your home. Over time, it can wear down from heat and exposure to the elements. If it stops working, your AC might shut off or start blowing warm air.
  
  
• Evaporator coil issues: Evaporator coils absorb heat from the air inside your home. If they corrode or freeze up, you might notice weak airflow, inconsistent cooling, or the system turning on and off too frequently.
  
  
• Blower motor problems: If there’s little or no air coming through your vents, the blower motor could be worn out. This part helps circulate the cooled air throughout your home, and when it fails, your system may seem like it’s running, but you won’t feel the results.
  
  
• Thermostat malfunction: When your system won’t turn on, runs too long, or doesn’t respond to temperature changes, a faulty thermostat might be to blame.

Many of these issues also force your AC to work harder, which can cause your energy bills to climb. Fortunately, these core components are typically covered under ARW Home’s home warranty plans, as long as the issue results from normal wear and tear.

AC Problems Usually NOT Covered

While home warranty plans cover many essential components of central air conditioning systems, certain items and scenarios are excluded. Knowing what isn’t covered can help you choose the right plan—and avoid surprises down the line when it’s time to file a claim:

• Excluded parts and components: There are always certain parts that won’t be covered by standard home warranty plans. What they are will change by providers. For example, ARW Home plans do not cover gas-powered AC units, humidifiers, drain pans, condenser casings, or registers, but there may be some plans that cover them.
  
  
• Portable and improperly installed units: Portable AC units and wall units that aren’t installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines are excluded. Systems not installed by licensed professionals, or those that violate building codes, also fall outside coverage.
  
  
• Cosmetic damage: Cosmetic issues like scratches, dents, chipped paint, or rust are not considered functional failures and are not covered.
  
  
• Maintenance-related exclusions: Problems caused by poor maintenance—such as dirty filters, clogged drain lines, or neglected service—can result in claim denials.
  
  
• Ductwork modifications: Rerouting, resizing, or structurally modifying your home’s ductwork is not included in most standard home warranty plans.

Make sure to read the fine print of your plan’s contract to fully understand the scope of coverage. That way, you’re not caught off guard if a claim is denied for something that’s excluded. For added peace of mind, always stay on top of regular maintenance—and check out these tips for maintaining your AC system.

How to File a Claim for a Broken AC

If your air conditioner stops working and it’s covered under your home warranty, getting it fixed is usually just a few simple steps away. Here’s how the claims process typically works with a provider like ARW Home:

• Submit a claim: You can file a claim by calling the claims number listed in your warranty contract or by visiting the provider’s website. Be prepared to describe the issue—for example, your AC might be running but not cooling, making strange noises, or shutting off suddenly.
  
  
• Schedule service: Once your claim is processed, an authorized technician will be assigned—usually within 24 to 48 hours. They’ll contact you to schedule the repair. Some providers, like ARW Home, may also allow you to use your own technician if you request prior authorization.
  
  
• Pay the service fee: You’ll pay a set service fee for each approved claim. This fee typically covers the technician’s trip and diagnostic inspection.
  
  
• Get your AC repaired or replaced: After the technician diagnoses the problem, they’ll confirm with the provider whether it’s covered. If it is, the repair will move forward—at no additional cost beyond your service fee. If a repair isn’t possible, your warranty may cover replacement costs up to the limits outlined in your plan.

How to Choose a Plan That Covers Your AC

If air conditioning is a top priority for your household (and let’s be honest, in summer, it very much is), you’ll want to make sure your home warranty plan includes reliable coverage for your system.

Let’s also be real—there are a lot of home warranty providers out there, and comparing plans can feel overwhelming. While we’d love to say we’re the obvious choice, we want you to feel empowered to make that decision for yourself. Here’s what to consider when evaluating a warranty plan:

• Coverage scope: Most home warranty plans don’t offer stand-alone AC coverage. Instead, they bundle appliances and systems together. Choose a plan that includes the home systems and appliances your home relies on most—like your heating system, plumbing systems, electrical systems, washer and dryer, refrigerator, or water heater.
  
  
• Read the fine print: Always request a sample service contract from the vendor before signing anything. It should clearly outline what AC components are covered, what’s excluded, and whether certain parts (like refrigerant or coils) require add-ons. Add-ons cost extra, so it’s good to know upfront.
  
  
• Option to use your own tech: Some providers, like ARW Home, allow you to use your own trusted HVAC unit technician—as long as you get prior approval. Not all companies offer this flexibility, so it’s worth asking.
  
  
• Service call fee: Check whether the provider charges a flat or variable service fee per claim. Some may increase fees for emergency or after-hours service. ARW Home has a flat service call fee regardless of when you file a claim.
  
  
• Coverage limits: Understand the annual payout cap per policy and per-item limits. Also confirm how much of a cash allowance you’ll receive if an appliance or system can’t be repaired and needs to be replaced.
  
  
• Older systems: Some providers won’t cover systems or appliances beyond a certain age. ARW Home does not have an age restriction, but it’s always wise to ask your provider directly.

Finally, compare monthly or annual plan fees, check how many service requests you’re allowed to submit, and read third-party customer reviews to evaluate service quality. If you want extra help narrowing down your options, this guide on how to choose a home warranty is a great place to start. You can also explore our breakdown of how to pick a home warranty plan to compare providers, pricing, and plan types side by side.

FAQs About Air Conditioner Warranty 

Does a home warranty cover the full cost of AC repairs?

It depends on the nature of the issue and the scope of the repair. All home warranty plans come with annual coverage limits per appliance or system.

For example, ARW Home’s plans include a $1,000 annual limit for central air conditioning repairs. If your total repair costs exceed this amount within a 12-month period, you may be responsible for paying the difference out of pocket.

Will a home warranty replace my entire AC unit if it breaks?

If the issue is covered and the unit can’t be repaired, your provider may offer a replacement or a cash allowance toward a new system—but this is always subject to your plan’s terms and coverage limits.

For example, with ARW Home, if your unit is over 10 years old and the repair cost exceeds $600, or if the necessary replacement parts are no longer available, we may offer a $600 cash replacement allowance. This amount increases by $50 for every year you remain an ARW Home customer, up to a maximum benefit of $1,000.

What types of air conditioning systems are covered under a home warranty?

ARW Home warranty plans cover residential electric central air conditioning systems with a capacity of up to five tons. Gas-powered AC or portable units are not included.

If your home has more than one cooling system, additional AC units can be added as optional coverage when you customize your plan. Always check your service contract for specific details on eligibility, coverage limits, and included components.

What AC issues are typically not covered by a home warranty?

Any issues caused by poor maintenance, negligence, or improper installation are not covered. Cosmetic defects like dents, scratches, or chipped paint are also excluded. And, problems that existed before your policy began won’t be eligible for coverage.

Some specific parts—such as registers, grills, and drip pans—are also excluded. Always consult your service contract to understand exactly what will and won’t be paid for.

How do I know if my current plan covers AC repair or replacement?

Check your plan’s declaration of coverage or terms and conditions to confirm if AC systems are included. These documents will outline what parts are covered, any exclusions, and the dollar limits for AC-related claims. If you’re still unsure, you can always contact your provider’s customer service team for clarification.

How long does it take to get an AC repaired under a home warranty?

Once you file a claim, most providers—like ARW Home—aim to dispatch a technician within 24 to 48 hours, and sooner if it’s an emergency. 

After diagnosis, the actual repair time can vary based on factors like part availability and technician scheduling. During peak seasons, repairs may take longer, but in most cases, issues are resolved within a few days.

Can I choose my own HVAC technician for warranty repairs?

It depends on your provider. ARW Home gives you the flexibility to use your own trusted HVAC technician—as long as you request and receive prior authorization. Otherwise, a licensed and vetted technician from our network will be assigned to handle the repair.

If you prefer to use your own HVAC repair tech, be sure to check your service agreement to confirm that your plan allows for that option.