Heating

Furnaces, heat pumps and boilers are among the costliest systems to repair or replace. Heat pumps are often covered in the same way as air conditioners because they share many parts.

What this covers on many plans

• Igniter, flame sensor and gas valve parts
• Blower motor and control board
• Heat pump components
• Boiler pumps and controls
• Thermostat and controls

What usually causes these failures

• Dirty filters and restricted airflow
• Worn igniters and sensors
• Age and cycling in cold climates
• Water quality problems in boilers

Often not covered

• Flues, vents and chimneys
• Fuel tanks and fuel supply lines
• Cracked heat exchangers on some plans, or only with a limit
• Radiant and baseboard heating on some plans
• Code upgrades
• Problems that existed before coverage began

Questions to ask before you buy

• Is the heat exchanger covered?
• Are boilers and radiant systems covered?
• Is there a per-system limit?

Safety first

If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide, leave the home and call your gas utility or 911. Call your plan afterward.

Coverage depends on the plan you choose. The covered list, exclusions, limits and service fee in your contract decide what is paid. Ask for them in writing before you buy.