What New Homeowners Need to Know About Home Warranties This Summer
Buying a home is one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming!) experiences in life. If you’re a new homeowner this summer, congratulations! You’re likely juggling a long list of “firsts,” from mowing the lawn to figuring out what all those switches do. But one thing you don’t want to learn the hard way is how expensive it can be when major appliances or systems break down. That’s where a home warranty comes in.
At UPKEEP, we help homeowners across Saint Louis and beyond protect their homes from surprise repair costs. If you’re wondering whether a home warranty is worth it—or what it even covers—we’ve got you. Here’s what every new homeowner should know this summer.
What Is a Home Warranty?
A home warranty is a service agreement that helps cover, or even covers entirely, the repair or replacement of key systems and appliances in your home when they break down from normal wear and tear. Unlike homeowners insurance (which covers damage from unexpected events like fire, theft, or natural disasters), a home warranty steps in when your air conditioner quits in the middle of a heatwave or your fridge suddenly stops cooling.
Think of it as a safety net for things like:
- Air conditioning and heating systems
- Plumbing and electrical systems
- Major appliances like your refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, washer/dryer, and more
Why Summer Is a Common Time for Breakdowns
Summer in Missouri can be hard on your home. Your A/C is running non-stop. Your fridge and freezer are working overtime. Family gatherings, barbecues, and extra laundry from outdoor activities all add stress to your appliances and systems.
Unfortunately, breakdowns tend to happen at the worst possible time—and without a warranty, you’re stuck scrambling to find a repair person and footing the full cost of the fix.
With UPKEEP, one call is all it takes. We handle the service coordination with our expert partners at Mister Fix-It, and we help cover the cost of eligible repairs or replacements—so you can get back to enjoying your summer.
What New Homeowners Should Watch Out For
As a first-time homeowner, there are a few things you might not expect after moving in:
- Used appliances may be close to the end of their lifespan. That shiny stainless steel fridge? It might be 10 years old.
- HVAC systems often go unchecked until they fail. And unfortunately, those repairs can run into the thousands.
- Home inspectors can’t predict the future. Even if everything looked good on your inspection report, it doesn’t guarantee things won’t break down a few months later.
A home warranty gives you peace of mind—especially when you’re adjusting to all the other costs of homeownership.
How a Home Warranty Saves You Money
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Item | Average Repair Cost | Average Replacement Cost | Covered by UPKEEP? |
| A/C System | $350–$700 | $4,000–$7,500 |  Yes |
| Water Heater | $200–$500 | $1,000–$1,800 | Yes |
| Refrigerator | $300–$600 | $1,500–$3,000 | Yes |
| Dishwasher | $150–$400 | $800–$1,200 | Yes |
With a home warranty, you pay a small service fee—and UPKEEP covers the rest for covered repairs or replacements. That means fewer budget surprises and less stress.
What to Look for in a Home Warranty Plan
Not all home warranties are created equal. When you’re choosing a provider, make sure to look for:
- Flexible plan options that fit your home’s needs
- Clear coverage terms with no hidden exclusions
- Local service technicians who know your area
- Responsive support (especially during emergency situations!)
UPKEEP is proud to be Saint Louis-based, and we’re here to protect homes like yours with plans that make sense.
Final Thought: It’s Never Too Early to Protect Your Investment
You’ve worked hard to become a homeowner—don’t let surprise breakdowns ruin the experience. Whether your home is brand new or new-to-you, a home warranty helps protect your budget, your time, and your peace of mind.
Ready to get started? Contact UPKEEP today to find the perfect home warranty plan for your home.
NEXT UP: Home Warranties Made Easy: Peace of Mind for Your Home and Budget