When AC repair is needed, the importance of working alongside a professional and compassionate HVAC company cannot be overstated. To get this job done quickly and correctly, professional assistance is a must. Let’s take a closer look at the ins and outs of AC repair, as it affects the homeowner’s insurance. This guide is a must-read for anyone who is looking to find out everything that they need to know.

Can I Claim my Air Conditioner on my Insurance? 

The damage to an air conditioning unit can be claimed on the insurance policy but there are certain caveats that need to be mentioned. For starters, the AC unit can only be covered as a result of a covered peril that has already been listed in the homeowner’s insurance policy. The coverage that is provided will also depend on the type of unit that has been damaged.

It will either be considered a part of the home or the homeowner’s insurance policy. This allows the homeowner to file a claim for specific damages that have taken place. Standard homeowner’s policies will cover damages that are related to fires, falling trees, vandalism and lightning strikes. AC units are no different in this regard.

On the other hand, typical wear and tear and accidental damage are not going to be covered in these instances. That means that a simple breakdown that was caused by years of normal usage is not going to be covered. Read on to learn more about the specifics.

When Homeowners Insurance Covers AC Repair

Hail is one of the more common causes of AC damage and homeowners are typically able to receive coverage in these instances. However, they must be willing to contact their insurance provider first. If it is a window AC unit that has been damaged, this may fall under the personal property umbrella and not be covered. Fire and lightning damage are usually covered as well.

Falling trees and vandalism are other areas that are covered because the average homeowner’s insurance policy is able to handle them. AC units and heat pumps can be handled with ease. It is in the homeowner’s best interests to file a police report to track their damages, though. While AC damages that are related to falling trees are covered more often than not, it still behooves a homeowner to contact their insurer to make sure that they are not going to be left holding the bag for any of these types of issues.

When it Doesn’t

As mentioned above, AC issues that are related to old age are not covered in these instances. Damages that accumulate because of natural wear and tear are simply not going to be covered. If the air conditioning unit malfunctions due to lack of maintenance, no coverage is offered in these instances either. Let’s say that the air conditioner is struck by a baseball during a backyard game. This is considered to be the homeowner’s problem, from a financial standpoint.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming that these units are covered when owner neglect takes place. In other words, there are no reimbursements coming to anyone with air-conditioner-related issues that take place because of problems that were within their power to control. Homeowners should also remain on the lookout for water damage.

When water leaks into the dwelling, these are not damages that the insurance provider is going to cover. Central AC units are also treated differently than stand-alone units. In most instances, the stand-alone unit will be considered as a form of personal property, whereas the central AC unit is considered to be part of the home by an insurance provider.

How to Fill Out a Homeowners Insurance Claim for Your AC

For starters, get a proper estimate for the cost of repairs. From there, weigh these costs against the costs of paying the homeowner’s insurance deductible. If the cost of repairing or replacing the AC unit is less than or slightly higher than the deductible, the homeowner is better off paying for the repair or replacement themselves.

If the homeowner does decide to proceed with the insurance claim, they will need to take pictures of the damages and write down the model/serial numbers. Once the insurance provider is contacted, they will make sure that the damages are covered by the policy. They will also send an adjuster to the home to check out the damages in person.

Make sure to meet with the adjuster, to ensure that nothing is overlooked. As long as the policy in question covers the cost of a replacement unit, the homeowner should be all set. If the unit has depreciated, the amount that the homeowner receives will reflect that.

The Most Common Signs it is Time to have Your AC Repaired

In most cases, there are some obvious signs that cannot be ignored. Is the air conditioner blowing out warm? Has the AC thermostat stopped working? These are clear signs that the unit is in need of repairs. The same goes for anyone who notices a lack of air coming from the vents. Loud noises and strange odors must also be addressed quickly.

If the home remains humid even after the unit has been turned on, this is another clear indication of serious damage. Water leaks and Freon leaks are also problematic. A specialist should be contacted as soon as possible in these instances. The same goes for homeowners who are experiencing a higher electric bill. In other instances, the lifespan of the unit may simply be over and there is nothing left to do but make new arrangements.

How to Find the best AC Repair Price

The homeowner should prioritize choosing a company that has the necessary experience. Choosing a company that is compassionate, professional and able to get the job done quickly is a major plus. Check the reviews as well. The best companies will always offer affordable, high-quality service in a timely manner. Lifetime warranties and around-the-clock are always a must.