What happens when your heating system breaks?

As the days become colder, you're likely drawing close to the months of the year where you'll become dependent on your home's heating system. During those chilly evenings, the last thing you want is for the system to break down altogether, leaving you huddled underneath a pile of blankets. But when your heating system breaks down, what other choice do you have? 

A problem with your heat is inconvenient, but it shouldn't be a huge inconvenience. When your heating system breaks, the ease and expense involved in the repair are largely dependent on whether or not you protect your home with a warranty plan. 

                                      You shouldn't need to wear a hat and sweater inside your home to stay warm. 

When you don't have a home warranty
Your heat can break down for a number of reasons. According to Popular Mechanics, a heating system that relies on hot water typically involves a boiler, expansion tank, circulator, convector, radiant loop and return header. A system that works with forced hot air usually runs with a furnace, register, ducts and cold-air return. Problems with any of these parts can have disastrous results on your system. 

Without a home warranty, you'll be left to deal with these issues on your own. And those repairs won't come cheap. According to Home Advisor, furnace repairs can run as high as $800. Replacing it will cost even more. If you have a heating system that's powered by an electric furnace, a new system could run you up to $1,700, possibly higher depending on the model, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. And on top of the costs, you'll have to deal with the time and stress that comes from figuring out the problem and finding someone that you trust to fix the issue. 

When you have a home warranty plan from TotalProtect
With a plan from TotalProtect, you don't have to deal with the same problems and expenses when your heating system breaks. We know that systems never break down at a convenient time, so our 24/7 customer service hotline is ready to handle your issues at any hour of the day or night. When you experience problems with the system, we'll send out someone from our network of over 40,000 pre-screened service technicians to take a look and address the problem in no time. You'll save time and money, and be able to rest easy knowing that your home is protected. 

The information in this article is intended to provide guidance on the proper maintenance and care of systems and appliances in the home. Not all of the topics mentioned are covered by our home warranty or maintenance plans. Please review your home warranty contract carefully to understand your coverage.