Warranty & Return Policies on Scratch & Dent HVAC: What’s Covered (and What’s Not)

🔧 Introduction: The Fine Print Matters

Hey folks, Mike Sanders here.

If you’ve followed along with my scratch & dent series, you know I’m all about helping homeowners save money without cutting corners. Scratch & dent HVAC units—whether it’s an air conditioner, furnace, heat pump, or even a water heater—can knock 20–50% off the price tag.

But here’s the catch: I’ve met plenty of homeowners who bought a system at a steal, only to find out later that they misunderstood the warranty or return policy.

And trust me, there’s nothing worse than thinking you’re covered when you’re not.

That’s why today we’re going deep into scratch & dent HVAC warranties and return policies—what’s covered, what’s not, and how to make sure you don’t get stuck holding the bag.

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🏷️ 1. How HVAC Warranties Work (The Basics)

Before we even get into scratch & dent, let’s talk about what a standard HVAC warranty usually covers.

• Compressor warranty: 5–10 years is typical, sometimes up to 12 years with top brands.

• Heat exchanger warranty: Often 20 years or lifetime for furnaces.

• Parts warranty: Covers electrical components, fans, boards—usually 1–5 years.

• Labor warranty: Rarely included unless you buy an extended plan.

👉 Energy Star confirms most manufacturer warranties protect parts but not labor.

One important note: warranties usually start from the date of installation, not the purchase date. That means your scratch & dent unit could sit in storage for months before you install it and still get a fresh warranty clock once installed.

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✅ 2. What’s Usually Covered on Scratch & Dent Units

Here’s the good news: scratch & dent doesn’t automatically void your warranty.

If the unit is:

• Brand new (never installed)

• Has a valid serial number

• And is sold through an authorized dealer

…then you typically still get coverage for:

• Compressors

• Blower motors

• Heat exchangers

• Coils

• Electrical parts

👉 Budget Air Supply explains that scratch & dent units are mechanically identical to flawless ones—so their coverage stands, as long as you register them.

Pro Tip from Mike: Always register your warranty with the manufacturer within 30–60 days of installation. If you skip this step, coverage could default to a shorter term.

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⚠️ 3. What’s Not Covered

Now here’s where some homeowners get tripped up.

Scratch & dent warranties will not cover:

• Cosmetic issues (scratches, chipped paint, dents).

• Noise or vibration caused by cosmetic dents.

• Damage caused by improper installation or lack of maintenance.

• Labor costs to replace covered parts.

• Shipping or return freight if the unit must be swapped.

👉 The Furnace Outlet reminds us: a dent in the cabinet is your responsibility—it doesn’t count as a manufacturer defect.

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🔍 4. Return Policies for Scratch & Dent HVAC

Here’s the blunt truth: most scratch & dent sales are final.

Why? Because the whole point is the discount—you’re getting hundreds off because you agree the blemishes aren’t a dealbreaker.

But there are exceptions:

• Some suppliers allow 7–30 day returns if the unit is unused and in original packaging.

• Buyer often pays return shipping (and HVAC equipment is heavy).

• If the unit is damaged beyond cosmetic issues in shipping, you must note it immediately on the delivery paperwork.

👉 Ingram’s Water & Air explains that buyers should inspect on delivery and document any issues right away.

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🛠️ 5. Mike’s Tips for Protecting Yourself

Here’s my step-by-step guide before you buy:

📋 Mike’s Warranty & Return Checklist

1. Inspect at delivery – Before signing, look for dents, punctures, or coil damage. Write everything down on the bill of lading.

2. Confirm warranty in writing – Ask the seller if the manufacturer’s warranty still applies. Get it in writing if possible.

3. Register immediately – Don’t wait—register the unit with the manufacturer as soon as it’s installed.

4. Ask about return window – Even if it’s just 7 days, it’s good to know.

5. Keep all paperwork – Receipts, warranty cards, and serial number photos are gold if you need a claim.

6. Hire a licensed installer – Many warranties are voided if a DIY install goes wrong.

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💰 6. Real-World Examples

Let’s walk through some scenarios:

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🏡 7. Who Benefits Most from Scratch & Dent Warranties

✅ Best fit for:

• Homeowners replacing hidden units (basements, side yards).

• Property managers who prioritize function over looks.

• Budget-conscious families who can’t stomach full retail.

❌ Not ideal for:

• Luxury remodels where appearance matters.

• Buyers uncomfortable with final-sale conditions.

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🙋 FAQs About Scratch & Dent HVAC Warranties

Q: Do I get the full manufacturer warranty?
A: Yes, if the unit is new, registered, and installed properly.

Q: Does the dent void coverage?
A: No—unless the dent affects performance (like puncturing a coil).

Q: Can I return the system if it doesn’t fit my house?
A: Usually no—scratch & dent sales are final.

Q: Is labor ever covered?
A: Rarely. Some dealers sell extended labor warranties—ask about them.

Q: What if the unit is damaged in shipping?
A: Report it immediately. If you sign without noting damage, the responsibility shifts to you.

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🧭 Mike’s Final Word: Read the Fine Print

Here’s how I see it:

• Scratch & dent warranties are almost always the same as brand-new warranties.

• Cosmetic flaws won’t be covered—but they also won’t affect performance.

• Returns are rare—so only buy if you’re sure it’s the right model.

If you follow my checklist, you’ll get the savings without losing the protections that matter most.

As I always say: I’ll take a dent in the cabinet over a dent in my wallet any day—just make sure the paperwork backs you up.

In the next topic we will know more about: Installation Tips: What to Tell Your Contractor About Scratch & Dent Equipment