Commercial Kitchen Equipment Warranties: A Guide
Understanding commercial kitchen equipment warranties helps protect your investment and avoid unexpected repair costs during the coverage period. Warranty terms vary widely between manufacturers and equipment categories, so knowing what to look for before purchase matters. This guide covers the key things to understand about commercial kitchen equipment warranties.
What Warranties Typically Cover
Most commercial equipment warranties cover parts and labor for manufacturing defects for a set period, often one year, with some components like compressors sometimes carrying extended coverage. Reading the specific terms matters, since coverage can vary significantly between the base warranty period and any extended component coverage.
Common Warranty Exclusions
Warranties typically exclude damage from improper installation, lack of routine maintenance, misuse, or normal wear items like gaskets and light bulbs. Understanding these exclusions upfront helps avoid surprises if a claim is ever needed.
- Improper installation or electrical hookup
- Damage from lack of routine maintenance
- Normal wear items like gaskets, filters, and bulbs
Warranties on Used Equipment
Used equipment purchased at auction typically doesn’t carry a manufacturer warranty unless it’s still within the original coverage period and transferable. Some equipment dealers offer limited warranties on used equipment they’ve inspected and reconditioned, which is worth asking about.
Typical Warranty Coverage Periods
| Equipment Type | Typical Base Warranty |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 1 year parts and labor, extended compressor coverage common |
| Cooking Equipment | 1 year parts and labor |
| Small Equipment | 90 days to 1 year, varies by manufacturer |