An extended warranty sounds reassuring… but is it always worth it for your central heat pump?
At AirGreen, we get questions every week from clients across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore about extended warranties offered on central heat pumps. These warranties, often proposed at the time of purchase or installation of an HVAC system, can seem appealing at first glance. But behind the promise of peace of mind often lie complex clauses, unforeseen restrictions, and important exclusions.
In this article, we reveal the real benefits — and pitfalls — of extended warranties. We dive deep into how they work, their actual usefulness in the Quebec context, the fine print to watch out for, and how AirGreen helps you make an informed decision.
What is an extended warranty for a central heat pump?
An extended warranty is additional protection offered beyond the manufacturer’s warranty. It can cover parts, labor, travel, and even periodic services like maintenance. It’s often offered by the manufacturer, distributor, or a third-party insurance company.
Typical duration and coverage
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Manufacturer’s basic warranty: Usually 10 years on parts, sometimes less depending on the brand.
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Extended warranty: Can add 5 to 10 additional years, sometimes up to 15 years total, with or without labor included.
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Labor: Rarely included unless purchased separately. Always check if it’s covered and under what conditions.
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Travel: Often excluded or limited to a certain distance from the installer.
The conditions and clauses to watch carefully
It’s essential to read the fine print before signing anything. Here are the most frequently misunderstood or overlooked items by consumers:
1. Mandatory annual maintenance
Many extended warranties require professional annual HVAC maintenance to remain valid. If maintenance is skipped or not properly documented, the warranty is void.
At AirGreen, we provide a certified maintenance logbook, signed at each visit to ensure your coverage stays active.
2. Parts covered... but not labor
Some extended warranties cover only the mechanical components (compressor, fan, etc.) but not the technician’s cost to replace them. This is critical, as labor in HVAC repairs is often the highest expense.
3. Geographic restrictions
Some warranties apply only to a limited geographic area. If you live on the outer edge of the North Shore or the South Shore, the provider may charge travel fees or refuse to honor the warranty.
4. Limited transferability
If you sell your property, some warranties do not transfer to the new owner, or require a fee to do so.
5. Excluded installation types
Non-compliant or modified installations (e.g., DIY setups, unauthorized alterations) can void the coverage. This is yet another reason to choose a certified company like AirGreen for any HVAC project.
A real experience in Montreal: an AirGreen client’s case
In 2024, we installed a 36,000 BTU Bosch BOVA central heat pump in a century-old home in the Outremont neighbourhood of Montreal. The client opted for a 10-year extended warranty covering both parts and labor.
A year later, a capacitor issue occurred. Fortunately, we had already documented all maintenance and required paperwork. The repair was 100% covered, with no cost to the client. This case highlights how important it is to strictly follow maintenance requirements and choose a reliable installer.
When is an extended warranty worth it?
Yes, if:
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You plan to stay in the same home for at least 10 years.
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The installer is certified and reputable (like AirGreen).
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Annual maintenance is in your budget.
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The warranty includes labor + travel + parts, with no deductible.
No, if:
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You don’t plan regular maintenance.
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You expect to move in the near or medium term.
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The warranty cost exceeds 20 to 25% of the total installation price.
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You’re installing a model already known for exceptional reliability, like certain Fujitsu or Lennox central heat pumps.
Our approach at AirGreen: transparency and personalized advice
We believe that every client deserves clear, accurate, and tailored information. That’s why we analyze with you:
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Your residential or commercial situation.
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The expected equipment lifespan.
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The long-term maintenance cost.
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Financing options and available grants (LogisVert, Efficient Heat Pump, etc.).
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The true value of each extended warranty, depending on the installed brand.
Popular brands and warranty policies: what you need to know
| Brand | Basic warranty | Extended warranty offered | Labor included? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fujitsu | 10 years on parts | Up to 12 years with conditions | No |
| Bosch | 10 years on parts | Yes, up to 15 years | Yes, with premium option |
| Goodman | 10 years on parts + lifetime compressor (under conditions) | Yes | No |
| Gree | 10 years on parts | Sometimes up to 12 years | Rarely |
The mistakes to avoid when purchasing an extended warranty
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Not reading the full contract.
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Ignoring hidden fees (deductibles, diagnostic fees, etc.).
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Believing everything is covered.
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Choosing a warranty from an unknown provider or with no local contact in Quebec.
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Thinking it replaces annual maintenance – in fact, it’s a contractual obligation.
Why choose AirGreen for your HVAC projects?
Throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, our reputation is built on:
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Over 15 years of experience in central heat pump installation, maintenance, and repair.
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A team RBQ-certified, trained on all major market brands.
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Personalized support, including helping you choose relevant and cost-effective warranties.
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Installations eligible for top government grants, including programs from Transition Énergétique Québec and Hydro-Québec.
Conclusion: an extended warranty, yes… but the right one
Extended warranties for central heat pumps can be a great investment — if you understand the details. They’re neither useless nor automatically essential. What matters most is to understand your needs, your constraints, and be supported by experts who put your interests first.
At AirGreen, our role is to help you make the best HVAC choice, for today and for years to come.