Free-of-charge boiler warranties can be a big bene t for installers, and can help to increase business eƒfficiency. However, it is important to check the terms and conditions of any warranty, says Dave Cook, Sales Director at Baxi.
When an installer is selling a new boiler to a homeowner, the job can become much easier (and hence quicker) if the appliance being recommended includes a free-ofcharge manufacturer’s warranty.
A boiler with a long warranty will be attractive to a homeowner – such guarantees give people peace of mind. This is always a big bonus, but even more so in the current economic climate. In turn, the installer knows that it’s unlikely they’ll have to repair the boiler or order and it spare parts. Hassle-free products improve business efficiency because they reduce costly, time-consuming call-backs. A reliable product needing few repairs also helps protect the installer’s reputation.
However, before using a longer warranty as a selling point, we’d advise installers to assess the level of support and service offered by the manufacturer (key things to consider are is it nationwide, and is there an adequate number of engineers?). The terms and conditions also need to be checked, and these should be discussed with the homeowner so that they understand what their obligations are.
An annual service is normally a requirement of any manufacturer’s guarantee, which can provide installers with an additional revenue stream. Understanding this, Baxi actually sends out service reminders to homeowners on behalf of our loyal installers to help generate business for them. In contrast, some manufacturers state that annual services need to be carried out by their own engineers – so this is an essential point to check.
Furthermore, for a longer boiler warranty to become valid, being Gas Safe registered, registering the boiler within 30 days from installation and completing the Benchmark log book are all standard prerequisites. Some warranties require the installer to join a manufacturer loyalty scheme, but this is usually a simple process that brings other beneits too. Although it’s not always obvious at first glance, some of the longer warranties are only available at extra cost, and some don’t include parts and labour for the full duration of the guarantee – so it’s always worth checking the small print.
