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Warranties on Scratch & Dent HVAC: What You Need to Know

Introduction: Peace of Mind at a Discount

Hey there, Samantha here!

You’ve found the perfect scratch & dent HVAC system — the specs are great, the price is unbeatable, and the savings are calling your name. But before you click “add to cart,” one big question pops up:

Does it come with a warranty?

It’s a fair question — and an important one. After all, HVAC systems are long-term investments, and a warranty is your safety net if something goes wrong.

Here’s the good news: most scratch & dent HVAC systems do come with manufacturer warranties, but there are a few details every homeowner (and landlord) should understand before buying.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

What kind of warranty coverage can you expect?
What’s included (and what’s not), and
How to properly register your warranty to keep your protection valid.

Let’s get into it — because protecting your investment is just as important as finding the best deal.

Do Scratch & Dent Units Come with a Warranty?

1. The Short Answer: Usually, Yes

Scratch & dent HVAC systems are typically new, unused units that have cosmetic imperfections — a dented panel, a scuffed corner, or a scratch on the outer casing. These don’t affect performance, so manufacturers often keep their warranties fully intact.

If the unit is being sold through an authorized distributor (like The Furnace Outlet), it’s usually eligible for the same limited parts warranty you’d get with a pristine system.

According to AHRI (Air-Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Institute), warranty eligibility is primarily based on whether the product has been installed, not on its cosmetic condition ➜ AHRI – Standards and Guidelines .

That means if your scratch & dent unit has never been installed or registered before, you can still activate the full warranty — even if the box isn’t picture-perfect.

2. Authorized Retailers Matter

Here’s where it gets tricky: not all scratch & dent sellers are created equal.

Buying from a third-party reseller or auction site might save you a few extra dollars, but if they’re not authorized by the manufacturer, you could lose warranty eligibility altogether.

Always buy from verified HVAC retailers who provide:

A valid serial number and model number,
Proof of authenticity, and
Access to manufacturer-backed support.

That way, you’re not just buying a deal — you’re buying protection.

3. Refurbished vs. Scratch & Dent

Be careful not to confuse scratch & dent with refurbished.

Scratch & dent = Brand new, cosmetic flaws only.
Refurbished = Returned, possibly repaired, and re-tested.

While refurbished HVAC systems can perform well, they may come with shorter warranties or third-party coverage rather than factory warranties.

Scratch & dent systems, on the other hand, almost always qualify for full manufacturer coverage when sold through the right channels.

What’s Covered in the Warranty (and What Isn’t)

HVAC warranties can be complicated — but they generally fall into two categories: parts coverage and labor coverage. Let’s break them down clearly.

1. What’s Covered

Most major manufacturers — Goodman, Amana, Rheem, and others — offer similar baseline protection for scratch & dent units as they do for brand-new ones:

Compressor Warranty (5–10 years): Protects the most expensive part of your system.
Parts Warranty (5–10 years): Covers internal components like coils, fans, and circuit boards.
Heat Exchanger Warranty (10–20 years for gas furnaces): Protects against manufacturing defects in the core heating component.

Many brands even offer lifetime limited warranties on select components if registered within a specific timeframe.

2. What’s Not Covered

Even the best warranties have limits. Scratch & dent systems — just like any HVAC — won’t be covered for:

Cosmetic imperfections (scratches, dents, scuffs)
Improper installation or unlicensed labor
Neglected maintenance (dirty filters, clogged drains, etc.)
Unauthorized repairs or modifications
Damage from natural disasters or electrical surges

Remember: the warranty protects against manufacturer defects, not everyday wear or preventable issues.

That’s why professional installation is essential — a system that fails due to improper setup isn’t covered by any manufacturer.

Energy Star recommends always hiring a certified installer and keeping service records to maintain warranty validity ➜ Energy Star – HVAC Quality Installation .

3. Optional Extended Warranties

Many retailers (including The Furnace Outlet) offer optional extended service plans that go beyond standard manufacturer coverage.

These can include:

Labor reimbursement for repairs
Priority service during warranty claims
Coverage beyond 10 years

While not required, extended warranties can be a smart move for property managers or landlords with scratch & dent HVAC units.

How to Register Your Warranty and Protect Your Investment

Step 1: Gather Your System Information

After installation, locate the following details (they’re usually on a metal nameplate or label):

Model number
Serial number
Installation date
Contractor name and license number

Take a photo of the data plate — it’ll save you time if you ever need to file a claim.

Step 2: Register with the Manufacturer

Go to the manufacturer’s website (Goodman, Rheem, Amana, etc.) and fill out their online warranty registration form.

Most companies require registration within 60–90 days of installation to qualify for full coverage. Missing that window could reduce your protection period (e.g., from 10 years down to 5).

Here are a few quick links for popular brands:

Registration ensures your product is logged in the manufacturer’s database for any future warranty service.

Step 3: Keep Your Documentation

Always save:

Your purchase receipt,
The installer’s invoice, and
The warranty registration confirmation email.

If you ever sell your property, having complete documentation can also transfer warranty benefits to the next owner — a selling point for homeowners and landlords alike.

Step 4: Schedule Annual Maintenance

Even though most warranties don’t cover routine maintenance, proof of upkeep is often required if you ever file a claim.

Schedule at least one professional inspection per year to check:

Refrigerant charge
Coil cleanliness
Electrical connections
Airflow calibration

The ASHRAE operation guidelines confirm that proactive maintenance extends system lifespan and reduces repair frequency by up to 40% ➜ ASHRAE – Standards and Guidelines .

Keeping a record of these visits can be a lifesaver if a warranty issue arises.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does installing a scratch & dent system void the warranty?

Not if it’s new, unregistered, and installed by a licensed professional. Always confirm that your reseller is authorized to sell manufacturer-backed systems.

2. Can I transfer the warranty if I sell my property?

Most major brands allow a one-time transfer within a set period (usually 30–60 days after sale). A small administrative fee may apply.

3. Are there warranties for multi-zone or commercial scratch & dent systems?

Yes! Multi-zone systems and packaged units often have identical coverage terms — just verify that they haven’t been previously registered or installed.

4. What if my installer damages the system?

Damage during installation isn’t covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, but may be covered by your contractor’s liability insurance. Always work with insured professionals.

Why Warranties Matter for Scratch & Dent Systems

Some people assume that a lower price equals lower protection, but that’s not true here.

Scratch & dent warranties are about peace of mind — knowing that you’re protected from unexpected breakdowns without paying full retail.

They also validate the quality and trustworthiness of the seller. If a company can offer manufacturer-backed warranties on discounted units, you know they’re authorized, transparent, and confident in their products.

And for property owners or landlords, warranty coverage is a quiet financial shield — keeping repair costs predictable and manageable.

Final Thoughts: Protection Without Compromise

A scratch & dent HVAC unit isn’t a gamble — it’s a smart, budget-conscious choice backed by the same engineering, performance, and often, the same warranty as new systems.

Here’s the key takeaway: