Why Do-It-Yourself isn’t worth it where gas is involved
15th January 2023
We all breathe a sigh of relief when we hear the term “extended warranty”, right? The truth is, your new boiler or home warranty, while useful, may not cough-up for some of the most common boiler faults. Don’t mistake ‘boiler cover’ for ‘home warranty’. Warranties and cover plans fulfil very different roles in our homes and protect our assets in different ways.
It’s important to distinguish between what’s offered with boiler cover and what’s covered by home warranty so that you can make the best decision about what protection you need for your home.
Boiler cover
Boiler cover is a specific product that focuses solely on protecting your boiler and, in some cases, your overall central heating system. It’s designed to spare you the hassle and cost of unexpected boiler breakdowns and repairs.
Depending on the package, boiler cover will normally absorb the cost of parts, labour and emergency call-out charges if your boiler stops working. Some packages, including ours 😉, also include an annual boiler service to keep your system functioning efficiently and safely. Servicing your gas appliances regularly is the best way to ensure your home heating system stays up and running. Speak to our team today about protecting your boiler and system.
Home warranty
A home warranty is a service contract that provides coverage for multiple systems and appliances within your home. Home warranties are normally available with new-build homes. If you’ve recently invested in a new boiler, you should also get a warranty for a certain period of time to protect your new appliance.
Warranties typically cover the repair or replacement of an appliance due to mechanical faults. The specifics of what’s covered can vary widely depending on the warranty provider, so make sure you do your homework on this one.
Key differences
While both boiler cover and home warranties can cover your boiler in the event of breakdown or boiler failure, there are significant differences between the two.
1 What’s actually covered?
Boiler cover plans are normally very specific; focusing primarily on the boiler and in some cases the entire central heating system. A home warranty offers broader coverage that extends beyond just the heating system to include other home systems and appliances.
2 Cost
The cost for each will depend on the level of coverage and the specific provider. A boiler cover plan is better value if you’re looking to just protect your boiler and heating system. Home warranties tend to be more expensive but provide broader coverage; protecting appliances and systems outside your heating controls.
3 Service
With a boiler cover package you should have access to a network of GasSafe-registered engineers for repairs. Home warranty companies also have a network of service professionals, but the quality and speed of service can vary based on the specific contractor assigned to your claim.
4 Exclusions
Both boiler cover plans and home warranties will have certain exclusions, which can vary significantly. For instance, home warranties tend only to be available for new-build homes. Older homes may require a specific care plan to protect the boiler and wider heating system. It’s important to note that in both cases, your policy provider may refuse to cover home appliances that are not well-maintained. Yet another reason to make sure you’re on top of your annual boiler service.
If you’re in a new-build, it’s worth investigating how much cover you actually get with a home warranty. For full peace of mind, a boiler cover plan is a great route to go. To chat to our friendly team of experts about protecting your home, simply get in touch.
Need help with your boiler or heating system? Contact us today
