If you recently bought a home with a heating and cooling system installed within the last 5 years, you might be sitting on years of unused manufacturer warranty coverage.
Most major HVAC brands offer 10-year limited functional parts warranties—but there is a catch. When a home changes hands, extended coverage doesn’t always transfer automatically. Many manufacturers require buyers to complete a formal warranty transfer within 60 to 90 days of closing.
Here is what you need to know to protect your investment and take advantage of any remaining coverage.
The Difference Between 5-Year and 10-Year HVAC Warranties
Base Warranty (5 Years): Most major brands automatically provide a standard 5-year base parts warranty attached to the unit’s serial number, regardless of registration or ownership changes.
Registered Warranty (10 Years): When the original homeowner registers the system after installation, coverage is often extended to 10 years.
The Transfer Catch: If you buy a home with a registered 10-year system, the remaining portion of that 10-year period typically only applies to you if you submit a transfer request shortly after closing. Otherwise, coverage defaults back to the standard 5-year base period.
What You Need Before Registering or Transferring
Before visiting the manufacturer's portal, gather the following details (which can typically be found in your home inspection report):
Equipment Details: Model and serial numbers located on the data plates of your furnace, heat pump, or condenser.
Proof of Transfer / Closing: A copy of your Closing Disclosure (CD) or Settlement Statement showing the closing date and property address.
Installation Date: Approximate original installation date (if known).
Payment Method: Some manufacturers charge a nominal administrative fee ($25–$50) to process the transfer.
How to Find Your Equipment Info
Look for the Equipment Profile section in your Spectora home inspection report (typically located under the Main Heating and Cooling section).
Here, you will find the exact Brand, Model Number, and Serial Number needed when filling out the manufacturer’s warranty registration form.
Manufacturer Warranty Portals & Registration Links
Click on your system's brand below to check warranty status or submit a transfer request:
Carrier / Bryant / Payne
Goodman / Amana / Daikin
Daikin Warranty & Registration Portal
Trane / American Standard
Lennox / Allied Air (Ducane, Concord, Armstrong)
Rheem / Ruud
Don't Miss Your Closing Window
Because warranty transfer windows are strict (usually 60 to 90 days from closing), we recommend processing your request as soon as you get your keys.
Have questions about the age or condition of your heating and cooling equipment? Check your recent home inspection report for full equipment profiles and serial numbers.
Henry “Sonny” Toman
1st American Home Inspections
443-388-2410
Serving our neighbors in:
Anne Arundel, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George's, and Baltimore Counties.
