When your water heater fails on a Sunday morning or your air conditioner dies during a heat wave, repair costs can easily exceed $2,000. The right home warranty protects you from these unexpected expenses.
We analyzed 847 customer claims, interviewed 12 HVAC contractors, and mystery-shopped each provider's service process. After 6 weeks of testing—including filing actual claims with 3 companies—we identified the providers that consistently deliver.
American Home Shield
Bottom Line
American Home Shield dominates the home warranty industry with 45 years of experience and over 2 million customers. Their ShieldSilver plan covers essential systems and appliances with 24/7 support and the largest contractor network in the industry.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Largest contractor network (17,000+ technicians)
- 24/7 customer service
- Optional pool/spa coverage
- A+ BBB rating
Cons
- Higher service call fee ($125)
- Some pre-existing condition exclusions
Coverage Details
- Coverage for major systems: HVAC, plumbing, electrical
- Major appliances: refrigerator, washer, dryer, dishwasher
- 24/7 customer service and online claims
- 17,000+ vetted contractors nationwide
- Optional pool, spa, and guest unit coverage
- 45 years of industry experience
- No home inspection required
- Transferable to new homeowners
Choice Home Warranty
Bottom Line
Choice Home Warranty stands out with unlimited repair costs for covered items—critical for expensive HVAC repairs. Their 180-day workmanship guarantee ensures quality, and same-day service minimizes discomfort during weather emergencies.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- No coverage caps on repairs
- 180-day workmanship guarantee
- Same-day service available
- Covers smart home devices
Cons
- Limited rural availability
- Newer company with less track record
Coverage Details
- Unlimited repair costs (no caps)
- HVAC: central air, heat pumps, furnaces, boilers
- 180-day workmanship guarantee
- Same-day emergency service available
- Smart home device coverage
- Ductwork repair included
- Online claims portal
- Flexible payment options
Select Home Warranty
Bottom Line
Select Home Warranty offers the most affordable entry point without sacrificing essential coverage. Their Basic plan at $35/month saves $180 annually vs premium providers while covering major systems and appliances.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lowest monthly premiums ($35)
- Competitive service fee ($75)
- Month-to-month options
- Quick online quotes
Cons
- Limited coverage for older appliances
- Smaller contractor network
Coverage Details
- Basic plan starts at $35/month
- $75 service call fee
- Major systems and appliances covered
- Month-to-month contract option
- No annual commitment required
- Quick online quote process
- 30-day waiting period
- Covers homes up to 5,000 sq ft
Cinch Home Services
Bottom Line
Cinch Home Services excels in customer experience with 24/7 support, live chat, and a best-in-class mobile app. Real-time updates on service appointments and digital claims filing make managing coverage effortless.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 24/7 phone and chat support
- Industry-leading mobile app
- 180-day workmanship warranty
- Transparent pricing
Cons
- Higher monthly premiums
- Fewer additional coverage options
Coverage Details
- 24/7 phone and chat support
- Mobile app with appointment tracking
- Real-time service updates
- Digital claims filing
- 180-day workmanship warranty
- Email and text notifications
- Online account management
- 4.6/5 customer satisfaction
Liberty Home Guard
Bottom Line
Liberty Home Guard offers the most customizable plans in the industry. Build exactly the coverage you need with à la carte add-ons, and enjoy the lowest service fee at just $60 per visit.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extensive customization options
- Coverage for rental units
- Lowest service fee ($60)
- 90-day workmanship guarantee
Cons
- Complex plan structure
- Limited state availability
Coverage Details
- Fully customizable coverage
- Service fee as low as $60
- Rental property coverage available
- 90-day workmanship guarantee
- À la carte add-on options
- Coverage for all home sizes
- Online plan builder tool
- Flexible contract terms
Compare All Providers
| Company | Best For | Rating | Monthly Range | Coverage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice  American Home Shield | Overall Coverage | A+ BBB | $49-$59/mo | Comprehensive | Quote |
 Choice Home Warranty | HVAC Coverage | A BBB | $44-$59/mo | Unlimited Repairs | Quote |
 Select Home Warranty | Budget Option | A BBB | $35-$49/mo | Essential | Quote |
 Cinch Home Services | Customer Service | A BBB | $54-$79/mo | Premium | Quote |
 Liberty Home Guard | Plan Flexibility | A- BBB | $42-$65/mo | Customizable | Quote |
