Difference Between a Home Warranty and Appliance Insurance
Liberty Home Guard

Expert-Reviewed Content: Guided by Editorial Standards

Rachel Cherem

Written By Rachel Cherem

Published 06/20/25
Home Warranty Plans

What’s the Difference Between a Home Warranty and Appliance Insurance?

Key Takeaways:

  • Home warranties cover multiple systems and appliances in your home, while appliance insurance typically protects individual appliances.
  • Appliance insurance is often sold by manufacturers or retailers, whereas home warranties are offered by third-party providers like Liberty Home Guard.
  • Home warranties are ideal for older homes or landlords needing broader coverage; appliance insurance suits newer, high-ticket appliances.
  • Cost-wise, a home warranty ranges from $400–$800/year, while appliance insurance usually costs $50–$300 per appliance.

If you’re a homeowner looking to protect your appliances and home systems, you’ve likely come across both home warranties and appliance insurance. While they might seem similar, they serve different purposes, and knowing the difference can save you time, money, and stress.

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is a service contract that covers repairing or replacing major home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear.

The Best Home Warranty Service

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Typically Covered:

  • HVAC systems
  • Plumbing and electrical systems
  • Kitchen appliances (refrigerator, oven, dishwasher)
  • Washer and dryer
  • Water heater

What Is Appliance Insurance?

Appliance insurance—sometimes called appliance protection plans—covers specific household appliances, usually against mechanical breakdowns. This is typically offered by manufacturers, retailers, or third-party providers.

Typically Covered:

  • A single appliance or bundle (e.g., refrigerator, washer, or stove)
  • Mechanical or electrical failure
  • Parts and labor for covered repairs

Key Differences at a Glance
 

Feature

Home Warranty

Appliance Insurance

Coverage Scope

Whole-home systems & appliances

Individual appliances

Provider

Home warranty companies

Retailers, manufacturers, third parties

Repair Network

Pre-screened service technicians

Often limited to specific repair shops

Duration

Annual contract (renewable)

Usually 1–5 years per appliance

Cost

~$400–$800/year

~$50–$300/appliance

Transferable to New Owner

Often yes

Rarely

Which One Do You Need?

  • Homeowners with multiple aging systems/appliances: A home warranty offers broader protection.
  • Just bought a new appliance? Manufacturer or extended appliance insurance might make sense.
  • Landlords or sellers: A home warranty can make your property more attractive and reduce maintenance headaches.

How Liberty Home Guard Helps

Liberty Home Guard provides comprehensive home warranty plans that go beyond appliance coverage. Our plans protect both essential systems and high-traffic appliances, with optional add-ons like:

  • Second refrigerators
  • Septic systems
  • Pool and spa equipment

We work with licensed, vetted professionals and offer 24/7 service requests.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for peace of mind across your home—not just one appliance—a home warranty is the smarter, more cost-effective choice. Appliance insurance has its place, but it’s limited in scope.

Want full protection? Contact Liberty Home Guard to learn how our home warranty plans can cover your home’s most important systems and appliances in one affordable package.

The Best Home Warranty Service

There’s a reason Liberty Home Guard was rated the #1 Home Warranty
Service by U.S. News and World Report for 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. Check out our services.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

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