When you invest in a commercial refrigerator, you’re not just buying cold storage—you’re protecting your food inventory, kitchen workflow, and customer experience. The right warranty can save you serious money on repair bills and keep you operational when a breakdown would otherwise derail service.
In high-volume kitchens, we most often see compressor failures become expensive not because of the part—but because labor and refrigerant aren’t covered. This guide breaks down what commercial refrigerator warranties typically cover, what’s often excluded, and how to compare brands so you can buy with fewer surprises later.
Most commercial refrigerators include 1–3 years of parts (sometimes labor) coverage and 5+ years on the compressor.
The catch: many warranties are parts-only—so labor, refrigerant, diagnostics, and service calls may still be out of pocket. A long compressor warranty sounds reassuring—but it doesn’t mean the repair is free.
Why Warranties Matter in Commercial Kitchens
In a commercial kitchen, refrigeration isn’t optional—it’s mission-critical. When a refrigerator goes down, you’re not just dealing with an inconvenience—you’re facing potential food loss, disrupted prep schedules, and expensive emergency repairs. A strong warranty helps limit both the financial hit and the operational chaos that follow.
1. Downtime Gets Expensive Fast
A failed refrigerator can force you to:
- Move product into backup storage (if available)
- Discard temperature-compromised inventory
- Delay prep, reduce menu options, or slow service
Even a few hours without reliable cold storage can trigger cascading problems across the kitchen.
2. Repairs Aren’t Cheap
Commercial refrigeration repairs often require specialized technicians and parts. Common fixes—like fan motors, thermostats, gaskets, or control boards—can add up quickly once you include labor and service call fees. A solid warranty reduces those surprise costs, especially early in the unit’s lifespan.
3. Emergency Service Calls Add Up
Breakdowns don’t wait for business hours. If a refrigerator fails during peak service or over a weekend, you may need after-hours service at premium rates—fees that limited warranties may not cover. Knowing what’s included (and what isn’t) helps you avoid costly surprises.
4. Protecting Your Investment Long-Term
Commercial refrigerators are a major capital purchase. A strong warranty signals that the manufacturer stands behind the build quality and can preserve ROI by covering high-cost components—especially the compressor and sealed system, where repairs are most expensive.
5. Less Stress for Your Team
When refrigeration fails, staff immediately shifts into crisis mode—improvising storage, reworking prep plans, and monitoring temps. Warranty-backed repairs can mean faster resolution, fewer workarounds, and less disruption to daily operations.
Practical takeaway: When comparing commercial refrigeration, treat warranty coverage as part of the total cost of ownership—not a footnote.
What Is a Refrigerator Warranty?
A refrigerator warranty is a manufacturer (or third-party) agreement that helps pay for repairs—or replacement—if parts of the unit fail within a set time period under normal use.
Most commercial refrigeration warranties fall into three main buckets:
- Parts warranty: Covers replacement components such as thermostats, evaporator fans, door gaskets, controls, relays, etc.
- Labor warranty: Covers technician time and service fees to diagnose and install covered parts.
- Compressor warranty: Often the longest coverage period, since the compressor is the heart of the system (many brands offer extended compressor coverage, sometimes up to 5 years).
Reminder: Compressor coverage is often parts-only—labor and refrigerant may still apply.
Types of Refrigerator Warranties
When you’re comparing commercial refrigerators, warranty terms can look similar at first glance—but the details can make a big difference in your total cost of ownership. Below is a deeper breakdown of the most common warranty types, what they usually cover, and what to watch for.
1) Manufacturer Warranty (Standard Warranty)
This is the default warranty included with most commercial refrigerators. It covers defects in materials or workmanship, not damage from misuse or normal wear.
Manufacturer Warranty: Quick Breakdown
| Category | What It Means |
|---|---|
| What it is | Baseline coverage included with the refrigerator |
| What it protects against | Manufacturer defects (not wear-and-tear) |
| Most common format | Parts-only, or parts + labor (varies by brand) |
| Typical duration | 1–3 years (often 1 year parts/labor) |
| Best for | Most buyers, especially first-time commercial equipment purchases |
What It Typically Covers
| Commonly Covered Parts | Examples |
|---|---|
| Electrical controls | Control boards, thermostats, sensors |
| Cooling system components | Fan motors, relays, switches |
| Internal failures | Defects that cause breakdowns under normal use |
| Replacement parts | Covered parts shipped or supplied by brand/provider |
| Labor (sometimes) | Only if warranty includes labor coverage |
What to Watch For
| Potential Issue | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Parts-only coverage | You may still pay labor + service call fees |
| Authorized tech requirement | Repairs may only be covered if done by approved servicers |
| Documentation requirements | Some brands require proof of install, maintenance, or purchase |
2) Extended Warranty (Add-On Coverage)
Extended warranties are optional plans purchased separately (from the manufacturer or third-party). They’re designed to extend coverage after the standard warranty expires.
Extended Warranty: Quick Breakdown
| Category | What It Means |
|---|---|
| What it is | Optional add-on coverage purchased separately |
| Main benefit | Reduces repair costs after standard warranty ends |
| Typical duration | +2–5 years beyond original warranty |
| Best for | High-use kitchens, no backup refrigeration, cost predictability |
What It Typically Covers
| Coverage Type | What You Might Get |
|---|---|
| Extended parts coverage | Continued protection on covered components |
| Labor coverage (varies) | Technician time may be included |
| Service calls (varies) | Some plans cover trip/diagnostic fees |
| Expanded coverage (sometimes) | Extra components not fully covered in standard plan |
What to Watch For
| Potential Issue | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Deductibles | You may pay a fee per repair claim |
| Claim limits | Caps per incident or per year can reduce value |
| Exclusions | “Consumables” often excluded (gaskets, bulbs, etc.) |
| Third-party pre-approval | Repairs may require authorization before work begins |
3) Compressor Warranty (Extended Compressor Coverage)
This is often the most valuable warranty because the compressor is the most critical (and expensive) part of the refrigeration system.
Compressor Warranty: Quick Breakdown
| Category | What It Means |
|---|---|
| What it is | Extended coverage specifically for the compressor |
| Why it matters | Compressor replacement can be costly + disruptive |
| Typical duration | 5–10 years (often longer than standard warranty) |
| Best for | Everyone—compressor failure is a high-impact repair |
What It Typically Covers
| Covered Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Compressor replacement | If it fails due to manufacturer defect |
| Sealed system parts (sometimes) | Coverage varies by brand (ask what’s included) |
What You May Still Have to Pay For
Even when the compressor is covered, many plans are parts-only, meaning you could still pay for:
| Common Out-of-Pocket Costs | Why It Adds Up |
|---|---|
| Labor | Compressor swaps are labor-intensive |
| Refrigerant recovery/recharge | Refrigerant handling isn’t usually “free” |
| Service call/diagnostics | Tech trip + inspection may be billed |
| Filter/drier replacement | Often required during sealed system work |
| Brazing/soldering work | Specialized labor can increase total cost |
4) Labor-Only Warranty
Labor-only coverage is less common as a standalone warranty, but it can show up in service plans or special warranty packages.
Labor-Only Warranty: Quick Breakdown
| Category | What It Means |
|---|---|
| What it is | Covers technician labor (not parts) |
| Typical duration | 6–12 months |
| Best for | Buyers who can source parts, or have maintenance support |
| Biggest limitation | Doesn’t help if a major part fails outside coverage |
What It Typically Covers
| Covered Cost | Notes |
|---|---|
| Technician labor time | For covered repairs |
| Service visit fees (sometimes) | Not always included—depends on plan |
What to Watch For
| Potential Issue | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| No parts coverage | You pay full part cost if something fails |
| Call limits | Some plans cap service calls per year |
| Coverage restrictions | Labor may only apply to specific repair categories |
Quick takeaway:
Most commercial refrigerators include some level of parts coverage, but labor, service calls, and refrigerant are often excluded unless explicitly stated. The real difference between warranties isn’t just length—it’s who pays when a technician actually shows up.
Warranty Comparison Table (Side-by-Side)
| Warranty Type | Usually Covers | Typical Length | Most Common “Gotcha” |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer (Standard) | Defect-related parts (sometimes labor) | 1–3 years | Often parts-only |
| Extended Warranty | Adds time + may add labor/service calls | +2–5 years | Deductibles, exclusions, pre-approval |
| Compressor Warranty | Compressor (sometimes sealed system) | 5–10 years | Compressor covered but labor/refrigerant not |
| Labor-Only Warranty | Technician labor (sometimes trip fee) | 6–12 months | Doesn’t cover expensive parts |
Warranty Start Dates: Why It Matters
Warranty coverage doesn’t always begin the same way—and that can shrink your real-world protection.
Common Warranty Start Points
| Warranty Start Point | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Date of delivery | Warranty clock starts when it arrives (even if unused) |
| Date of installation | Better for delayed installs or remodels |
| Date of purchase/invoice | Can start before delivery even happens |
| Date of first use (rare) | Most flexible, but uncommon |
📌 Tip: If your unit sits in storage for weeks before installation, a warranty that starts at delivery may shorten your actual coverage window.
Why this matters in real life:
If your refrigerator sits in storage or waits on a remodel, a warranty that starts at delivery can quietly eat into months of usable coverage before the unit is ever turned on.
Refrigerator Warranty Comparison by Brand
Here’s a cleaner, buyer-friendly side-by-side table you can drop straight into a guide.
Side-by-Side Warranty Table
| Brand | Parts & Labor | Compressor | Extended Warranty Available? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| True | 3 years | 5 years | ✅ Yes | High reliability; often positioned as USA-made |
| Turbo Air | 2 years | 5 years | ✅ Yes | Solid value; commonly chosen by small businesses |
| Traulsen | 3 years | 5 years | ✅ Yes | Premium-grade; often marketed for efficiency/performance |
| Avantco | 1 year | 5 years | ⚠️ Limited | Budget-friendly; lower upfront cost |
| Beverage-Air | 3 years | 5 years | ✅ Yes | Well-known brand; many models are NSF-certified |
Quick “What This Means” Table (Buyer Takeaways)
| If you prioritize… | Brands that tend to fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lower long-term repair risk | True, Traulsen, Beverage-Air | Longer parts/labor coverage reduces early ownership costs |
| Best value for smaller operations | Turbo Air | Shorter parts/labor than 3-year brands, but often a strong price-to-coverage balance |
| Lowest upfront cost | Avantco | Typically cheaper to buy, but shorter parts/labor means more out-of-pocket risk sooner |
Buyer shortcut:
Higher-end brands typically reduce early ownership risk with longer parts-and-labor coverage, while budget brands lower upfront cost but shift more repair responsibility to the owner sooner.
Watch-Outs to Add
| Detail to confirm | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Is compressor coverage parts-only? | Many compressor warranties don’t include labor, refrigerant, or service calls |
| Warranty start date | If it starts at delivery (vs installation), storage time can reduce real coverage |
| Authorized service requirement | Using a non-authorized tech can void coverage |
| What “limited” extended warranty means | Could mean fewer terms, fewer covered parts, deductibles, or availability only on certain models |
✅ Pro Tip: Extended warranties usually must be purchased at the time of sale (or within a short window after). Don’t wait until the standard warranty is close to ending.
What’s NOT Covered by Most Warranties
Most commercial refrigerator warranties cover manufacturer defects, not damage caused by install issues, environment, or lack of upkeep. Here are the exclusions that commonly trip people up.
Common Warranty Exclusions (At-a-Glance)
| Common Exclusion | What It Looks Like in Real Life | Why It’s Usually Not Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Improper installation | Wrong voltage, missing dedicated circuit, poor airflow clearance, installed in a hot/greasy area without ventilation | Considered preventable / not a manufacturing defect |
| Electrical surges or disasters | Storm-related power spikes, flooded kitchen, water intrusion | Classified as “external damage” |
| Lack of cleaning / maintenance | Dirty condenser coil, clogged drain line, ice buildup from neglected defrosting | Failure caused by upkeep, not defective parts |
| Unauthorized repairs or modifications | Non-authorized technician, aftermarket parts, DIY wiring | Can void coverage due to liability + unknown workmanship |
| Cosmetic damage | Scratches, dents, door dings from delivery or kitchen traffic | Doesn’t affect function; often treated as freight/handling issue |
Reality check:
Most warranty denials come from installation issues or skipped maintenance—not defective parts. Clean coils, proper electrical setup, and authorized service matter more than most buyers realize.
“Double-Check These” Exclusions Table (Often in Fine Print)
| Item | Why to Check |
|---|---|
| Door gaskets, lights, knobs/handles | Sometimes treated as consumables/wear items |
| Refrigerant / sealed system labor | Even if a part is covered, labor/refrigerant may not be |
| Service call / diagnostic fees | Some warranties cover parts but not the technician trip |
| Maintenance records requirement | Some claims get denied without proof of routine care |
Bottom line: Always read the warranty terms before assuming a repair is free—especially around labor, service calls, refrigerant, and authorized service requirements.
How to File a Warranty Claim (Step-by-Step)
Most manufacturers follow a similar flow. Here’s a clean step-by-step process you can include in a buyer guide.
Warranty Claim Process
| Step | What to Do | What You’ll Need / Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the serial number | Usually on an interior wall, door jamb, or rear data plate |
| 2 | Find proof of purchase | Invoice, receipt, or order confirmation |
| 3 | Contact manufacturer support | Use the official support number/email from the brand website |
| 4 | Describe the issue clearly | Include symptoms, error codes, unusual sounds, temp readings |
| 5 | Follow their inspection process | They may schedule an authorized service tech visit |
| 6 | Receive approval, parts, and/or service | Some brands ship parts; others dispatch service |
| 7 | Keep claim records | Save the case number, emails, and service notes |
Time-saving tip:
Claims move fastest when you have the model number, serial number, proof of purchase, and a clear description of the issue ready before calling.
What to Write Down Before You Call (Fast-Track Table)
| Info to Prep | Example |
|---|---|
| Model number | “XYZ-48-HC” |
| Serial number | From data plate |
| Purchase date | Invoice date |
| Install date (if relevant) | Useful when warranty start date is disputed |
| Issue description | “Not holding temp; freezes then warms; loud clicking near compressor” |
| Photos/videos | Data plate + issue evidence (ice buildup, error screen, etc.) |
🗂 Documentation Tip: Keep a folder (digital or printed) for warranty docs, invoices, and service receipts. It speeds up claims and helps if coverage timing is questioned.
Tips for Choosing the Best Refrigerator Warranty
Choosing the right warranty isn’t just about the longest term—it’s about matching coverage to how your kitchen actually operates.
Warranty Selection Tips (Quick Table)
| Tip | Why It Matters | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Match warranty to your operation | Heavy-use kitchens have more wear, more run time, and higher repair risk | 24/7 kitchens, high-volume restaurants, busy prep lines |
| ✅ Prioritize longer parts and labor coverage | Parts-only coverage can still leave you paying big labor/service fees | Buyers who want predictable costs |
| ✅ Check service availability in your area | Some warranties require authorized techs—and may not cover remote areas | Rural locations, new builds, multi-unit operators |
| ✅ Factor warranty into total cost | A cheaper unit can cost more over time if repairs aren’t covered | Budget-conscious buyers planning long-term |
| ✅ Ask about response time | Fast service matters when refrigeration downtime means product loss | Weekend-heavy businesses, catering, bars, hospitals |
Bottom line:
The best warranty is the one that matches how hard your kitchen runs. High-volume operations benefit most from longer labor coverage, while lighter-use kitchens may prioritize upfront price.
“Smart Buyer Questions” to Ask Before You Purchase
| Question to Ask | What You’re Trying to Confirm |
|---|---|
| “Is this warranty parts-only or parts + labor?” | Whether you’ll pay labor/service call costs |
| “Does the compressor warranty include labor or refrigerant?” | Compressor coverage is often parts-only |
| “Do I need an authorized technician?” | Unauthorized repairs can void coverage |
| “When does the warranty start—delivery or installation?” | Storage time can shorten real coverage |
| “What’s the average service response time?” | Helps reduce downtime risk |
Pre-Purchase Warranty Checklist (Print This)
Coverage (what’s paid for)
☐ Parts only—or parts + labor?
☐ Compressor: part only or part + labor + refrigerant?
☐ Sealed system included (evap/condenser/tubing)?
☐ Wear items excluded (gaskets, bulbs, handles)?
Timing (when it starts)
☐ Starts at purchase / delivery / install?
☐ Will it sit before install? (Remodel / storage)
☐ Install proof required to activate?
Service rules (how you stay covered)
☐ Authorized tech required?
☐ Authorized service available in your area?
☐ Who pays trip/diagnostic/travel fees?
Install + environment (common denial reasons)
☐ Electrical matches unit (voltage/phase/amps)
☐ Clearance + ventilation met
☐ Ambient temp rating fits your kitchen
Extended warranty (only if it adds real value)
☐ Must be bought at purchase (or within ___ days)?
☐ Adds labor/service calls/refrigerant—or just time?
☐ Deductible? Claim limits? Exclusions?
☐ Manufacturer-backed or third-party?
Maintenance (protect coverage)
☐ Coil cleaning schedule set
☐ Maintenance log kept (required?)
☐ Approved cleaning methods/chemicals
Paperwork (claim-speed kit)
☐ Save invoice + warranty PDF
☐ Record model + serial
☐ Note install date
☐ Start a maintenance log
One-line reality check
☐ If it fails on a Friday night: who pays, who comes, how fast?
Final Pre-Purchase Reality Check
If the refrigerator fails during a busy service, who pays—and how fast does help arrive? If the answer isn’t clear, dig deeper before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are extended warranties worth it?
Often, yes—especially for refrigerators priced above $3,000, high-tech models (digital controls, variable-speed compressors), or units running in 24/7 operations like busy kitchens and convenience setups. The big value is risk transfer: if a compressor, control board, or sealed-system component fails, parts + labor + refrigerant + downtime can add up fast. If your fridge is mission-critical (or you don’t have backup cold storage), an extended warranty can be a smart “sleep better” expense—just make sure you understand what’s covered (sealed system vs. parts only), response times, and whether service is handled by the brand or a third party.
Can I void my warranty?
Yes. Common warranty “deal-breakers” include incorrect installation (wrong electrical specs, poor ventilation/clearances, unleveling), skipping routine maintenance (dirty condenser coils, clogged filters/drains), and repairs by unauthorized technicians. Using the wrong cleaning chemicals, modifying the unit, or operating it outside stated ambient temperature ranges can also cause issues. Best practice: keep install notes, maintenance logs, and service receipts—if there’s a claim, documentation makes it far easier.
What’s the average commercial fridge warranty?
A typical baseline is 1–3 years for parts & labor, with up to 5 years on the compressor (and sometimes longer on the sealed system for certain brands/models). Coverage varies a lot by manufacturer and series, and some “compressor warranties” cover the part but not labor, refrigerant, or related components. Always confirm: what’s covered, what’s excluded, and what counts as required maintenance.
What maintenance matters most for keeping coverage (and avoiding breakdowns)?
The biggest one is condenser coil cleaning—a dirty coil forces the system to run hotter and harder, which increases the odds of compressor failure (and can give a warranty provider a reason to deny a claim). Also: keep door gaskets intact, don’t block airflow vents, maintain proper clearances, and verify the unit is on the right electrical circuit. A simple checklist and calendar reminders (weekly wipe-down, monthly coil check, quarterly deep clean) can extend lifespan and protect your warranty.
Helpful Resources & Links
- View True's official commercial refrigeration warranty terms
- See Energy Star’s official performance criteria for commercial refrigeration units
Conclusion: Your Warranty is Part of Your ROI
Commercial refrigerators are a major investment — and your warranty is a key part of that investment’s protection. Don’t treat it like fine print.
By understanding what warranties actually cover, what they exclude, and how to compare them across brands, you can choose equipment that gives you performance and peace of mind.
Need help choosing the right commercial fridge or warranty plan?
📞 If you’re comparing models and want clarity on warranty coverage before buying, our team can help you understand the differences. Click here!
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