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6 Best Home Warranty Companies in Merced, CA

Written By David Cusick

Last Updated June 2024

There are many benefits of owning a home, but as your Merced home gets older, you may need to update your appliances and systems. A home warranty in Merced can help lower your out-of-pocket costs by covering repairs or replacements to major home systems and appliances that stop working due to normal wear and tear.

Finding the right protection for your home can be time-consuming, so our team at Today's Homeowner has done the research to help you find the best home warranty companies in Merced. Read on for our home warranty recommendations.

Our Recommended Providers

Advertisement This site receives compensation from some of the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. When you click "Get Quote," you will be connected with partners who may contact you with information related to your inquiry. This listing doesn't feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Top Pick
4.1/5
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Decent coverage caps
  • No exclusions for older homes
Best For First Time Homeowners
4.2/5
  • The oldest and most trusted company in the industry
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best for Customization
4.5/5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages

The 6 Best Home Warranty Companies in Merced

Choice Home Warranty

Over 10 years of experience

24/7 customer service team

Home inspections aren’t required

90-day repair guarantee

Plans aren’t customizable

Customers can’t choose their own contractor

Not available in washington

In Merced, Choice Home Warranty is the best overall home warranty. Choice has been operating for around 15 years, making it a respected company in the industry. The home warranty company offers 2 plans to policyholders that have various system and appliance coverage options. If you’re looking for very high coverage caps and simple-to-understand service contracts, Choice is the perfect provider for you. Plus, it has great customer service, professional contractors, and lower out-of-pocket costs compared to other home warranties.

There are 2 home warranty plans from Choice Home Warranty: Basic Plan and Total Plan. Choice has coverage caps of around $3,000 for most appliances and systems, but some plans may have different coverage caps, so be sure to check with the provider. Service fees are an affordable $85.

To get a free quote from Choice Home Warranty, fill out this online form or call 929-400-6164. To read more, visit our comprehensive review of Choice Home Warranty.

Basic Plan

Total Plan

Service fee: $85.00Monthly cost: $45.00
Items covered: Ceiling fan , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door opener , Heating system , Oven , Microwave , Plumbing system , Toilet , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Well pump , Roof leaking , Septic tank , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer
Service fee: $85.00Monthly cost: $53.33
Items covered: Ceiling fan , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door opener , Heating system , Oven , Microwave , Plumbing system , Toilet , Water heater , AC , Washer , Dryer , Refrigerator Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Well pump , Roof leaking , Septic tank , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer

Select Home Warranty

Low service fees compared to other home warranty providers

Two months of free coverage

Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option

90-day repair guarantee

Has a $75 cancellation fee

Low coverage caps

In Merced, Select Home Warranty is the most cost-effective home warranty. Select has been operating for around 11 years, making it a respected company in the industry. The home warranty company offers 3 plans to policyholders that have various system and appliance coverage options. If you’re looking for a highly affordable service fee and free roof coverage upon purchase of a policy plan, Select is the perfect provider for you. Plus, it has an extensive network of highly trained professionals all over the country who are experts in home maintenance.

There are 3 home warranty plans from Select Home Warranty: Bronze Care Plan, Gold Care Plan, and Platinum Care Plan. Select has coverage caps of around $2,000 for most appliances and systems, but some plans may have different coverage caps, so be sure to check with the provider. Service fees are a reasonable $60.

To get a free quote from Select Home Warranty, fill out this online form or call 888-370-3953. To read more, visit our comprehensive review of Select Home Warranty.

Bronze Care Plan

Gold Care Plan

Platinum Care Plan

Service fee: $60.00Monthly cost: $57.67
Items covered: Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks
Service fee: $60.00Monthly cost: $57.67
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks
Service fee: $60.00Monthly cost: $62.08
Items covered: Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Washer , Air conditioner , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Water heater , Ceiling fan , Garage door , Plumbing stoppages Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks

American Home Shield

The oldest and most trusted company in the industry

Allows customers to build their own plans

Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay

Broad coverage on up to 33 appliances and systems

Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician

Doesn’t provide coverage in alaska

In Merced, American Home Shield is the most customizable home warranty. AHS has been operating for around 26 years, making it a respected company in the industry. The home warranty company offers 3 plans to policyholders that have various system and appliance coverage options. If you’re looking for the ability to customize your plan with the coverages that work specifically for your home, AHS is the perfect provider for you. Plus, it has a remarkably low claim denial rate in comparison to other home warranty companies.

There are 3 home warranty plans from American Home Shield: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. AHS has coverage caps of around $2,500 for most appliances and systems, but some plans may have different coverage caps, so be sure to check with the provider. Service fees are customizable and range from $75 to $125.

To get a free quote from American Home Shield, fill out this online form or call 888-365-2839. To read more, visit our comprehensive review of American Home Shield.

ShieldSilver

ShieldGold

ShieldPlatinum

Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00Monthly cost: $29.27 - $44.27
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Disposal , Doorbell , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Locksmith , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Toilet , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00Monthly cost: $39.27 - $54.27
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Toilet , Trash compactor , Washer , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00Monthly cost: $59.27 - $74.27
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Locksmith , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Roof leaks , Toilet , Trash compactor , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump

First American Home Warranty

Established company with a bbb accreditation

Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork

24/7 service calls available

Offers replacement of some covered items that are too damaged to repair

Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor

According to some customer reviews, the technical jargon in contracts is confusing

In Merced, First American Home Warranty is the best home warranty for appliance coverage. First American has been operating for around 39 years, making it a respected company in the industry. The home warranty company offers 2 plans to policyholders that have various system and appliance coverage options. If you’re looking for very affordable and comprehensive appliance coverage, First American is the perfect provider for you. Plus, it has a unique add-on alongside common ones called the First Class Upgrade, which covers fees associated with the use of lifting equipment, up to $250 per local building permits, haul away services, and appliances and systems that have been insufficiently installed or modified.

There are 2 home warranty plans from First American Home Warranty: Basic Plan and Premier Plan. First American has coverage caps of around $1,500 for most appliances and systems, but some plans may have different coverage caps, so be sure to check with the provider. Service fees are a reasonable $85.

To get a free quote from First American Home Warranty, fill out this online form or call 833-204-7164. To read more, visit our comprehensive review of First American Home Warranty.

Basic Plan

Premier Plan

Service fee: $85.00Monthly cost: $38.00
Items covered: Attic fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Disposal , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Trash compactor , Washer , Water dispenser Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Air conditioner , Septic tank , Septic , Well pump , First-class upgrade
Service fee: $85.00Monthly cost: $48.50
Items covered: Attic fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Disposal , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing system , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Toilet , Trash compactor , Vacuum , Water heater , Washer , Water dispenser Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Air conditioner , Septic tank , Septic , Well pump , First-class upgrade

Cinch Home Services

Offers home insurance deductible of $500

Extra long 180-day workmanship guarantee

Offers free cancellation in the first 30 days

Charges high service fees of $75-$150

Doesn’t allow customers to choose their own technician

Isn’t available in hawaii or alaska

In Merced, Cinch Home Services is the home warranty with the best workmanship guarantee. Cinch has been operating for around 44 years, making it a respected company in the industry. The home warranty company offers 3 plans to policyholders that have various system and appliance coverage options. If you’re looking for a 180-day workmanship guarantee that ensures your home systems and appliance repairs will be professionally done, Cinch is the perfect provider for you. Plus, it has a broad range of coverage options that will give homeowners peace of mind.

There are 3 home warranty plans from Cinch Home Services: Appliances Plan, Built-in Systems Plan, and Complete Home Plan. Cinch has coverage caps of around $1,000-$2,000 for most appliances and systems, but some plans may have different coverage caps, so be sure to check with the provider. Service fees are customizable and range from $75 to $150.

To get a free quote from Cinch Home Services, fill out this online form or call 877-589-0505. To read more, visit our comprehensive review of Cinch Home Services.

Appliances Plan

Built-in Systems Plan

Complete Home Plan

Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00Monthly cost: $34.99 - $50.99
Items covered: Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Dryer , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Trash compactor , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00Monthly cost: $39.99 - $57.99
Items covered: Air conditioner , Smoke alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Disposal , Doorbell , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Septic tank pumping , Spa , Sump pump , Toilet , Vacuum , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00Monthly cost: $49.99 - $67.99
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Spa , Sump pump , Toilet , Trash compactor , Vacuum , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump

The Home Service Club

Policy starts in ten days

24/7 customer service support

Generous coverage caps on important systems and appliances

30-labor guarantee and 90-day parts guarantee

Offers utility and home service outside line coverage

Higher service fee of $95

Not accredited by the better business bureau (bbb)

Only 2 plan options

In Merced, The Home Service Club is the best home warranty with the quickest service. HSC has been operating for around 15 years, making it a respected company in the industry. The home warranty company offers 2 plans to policyholders that have various system and appliance coverage options. If you’re looking for quick coverage where the home warranty goes into effect just ten days after you pay for the plan, instead of the typical 30 days, HSC is the perfect provider for you. Plus, it has customer service representatives available 24/7, as well as a 30-day labor guarantee and a 90-day parts guarantee.

There are 2 home warranty plans from The Home Service Club: Standard Coverage Plan and Comprehensive Coverage Plan. HSC has coverage caps of around $2,000 for most appliances and systems, but some plans may have different coverage caps, so be sure to check with the provider. Service fees are customizable and range from $65 to $90.

To get a free quote from The Home Service Club, fill out this online form or call 800-750-9443. To read more, visit our comprehensive review of The Home Service Club.

Standard Coverage Plan

Comprehensive Coverage Plan

Service fee: $60.00 - $95.00Monthly cost: $50.40
Items covered: Air conditioner , Ceiling fan , Dishwasher , Garbage disposal , Dryer , Electrical system , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door opener , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Refrigerator , Trash compactor , Central vacuum , Washer , Water heater Add-on items: Utilities and home service line coverage (outside gas line, outside water line, outside sewer line, sprinkler system , Pool , Spa , Water softener , Roof leaks , Well pump , Pump , Stand-alone freezer
Service fee: $60.00 - $95.00Monthly cost: $62.90
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm wiring , Attic fans , Ceiling fan , Dishwasher , Garbage disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical system , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door opener , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Pest control , Phone , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Sump pump , Toilet , Trash compactor , Central vacuum , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Utilities and home service line coverage (outside gas line, outside water line, outside sewer line, sprinkler system , Pool , Spa , Water softener , Roof leaks , Well pump , Pump , Stand-alone freezer
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on home warranty companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Cost of Common Home Repairs in Merced

Home ApplianceRepair Cost
Air Conditioner$6,275
Heating$4,183
Electrical$627
Toilets$523
Washer/Dryer$837
Plumbing$627
Oven$1,673
Fridge$627

How Does a Home Warranty Work?

A home warranty is a protection plan that helps Merced homeowners reduce the expenses of appliance and system repairs. The plans offer coverage to fix or swap out appliances and systems that stop working due to normal wear and tear. When something breaks down, you file a claim and pay a service fee. The home warranty company then arranges a contractor to handle the fix or replacement. Homeowners may have out-of-pocket costs only if the repair or replacement exceeds the item's coverage limit. A home warranty plan gives homeowners a sense of security since it can help avoid expensive emergency repairs. They can be especially helpful for people purchasing older homes or homes with systems near the end of their life span. However, newer homes with appliances and fixtures in good condition may not need a home warranty.

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

Home warranties protect your home systems and appliances. Common appliances covered include dishwashers, garbage disposals, washers, microwaves, refrigerators, dryers, and more. Included systems are normally electrical, plumbing, heating, and air conditioning. Many home warranty companies provide add-on coverage for septic systems, locksmiths, roof leaks, and central vacuums. Merced homeowners should know that most home warranty policies have a 30-day period you must wait before they will cover the cost of any repairs. Additionally, policies typically only cover repairs and replacements due to normal wear and tear. Home warranties don't cover problems such as pre-existing conditions, cosmetic issues, natural disasters, or misuse of a system or appliance. Make sure to keep up with preventative maintenance to ensure that your next repair or replacement will be covered by the policy.

Key Home Warranty Terms to Know

Home warranties use several terms that you'll want to know before signing a contract, such as:

  • Service fee: The out-of-pocket cost you pay per claim for access to a contractor and repair coverage.
  • Coverage limits: Dollar limits that cap how much the warranty will pay for certain repairs or replacements. Check limits on appliances, air conditioning units, roof leaks, and similar repairs.
  • Contract rate: The rate that your home warranty provider has pre-negotiated with its contractors. Normally, this rate is lower than what you'd pay retail.
  • Claim approval: The process providers use to determine whether a requested repair or replacement is covered under a home warranty plan.
  • Deductible: How much you pay for a covered repair before your warranty covers the rest. Deductibles can be per-claim or yearly.
  • Trade call fee: An added fee that you'll sometimes need to pay for appliance-related claims.
  • Endorsements: Optional add-ons that expand coverage for additional systems like septic, well pumps, pools, and more. Endorsements typically cost an additional fee.
If you remember these terms and key factors, it’ll help you understand costs and select a home warranty tailored to protecting your most essential home systems. Make sure to talk to providers about the specifics of coverage when getting a quote, so you can avoid unexpected fees.

Key Factors in Choosing a Home Warranty Company

There are several important considerations when choosing a home warranty provider:

Coverage Options

Home warranty coverage differs significantly when it comes to what's covered. Most plans cover heating, plumbing, AC, electrical, and appliances. More comprehensive plans also include protection for other items such as roof leaks, well pumps, spas, and pools. Look for companies with an array of coverage options, such as upgraded plans. Flexibility helps you tailor your protection for your needs.

Service Fees

You'll pay a repair fee, normally ranging from $60–100 for each claim filed with your home warranty provider. This fee is charged per request and can quickly add up, so you may seek out companies advertising more affordable fees to optimize savings on each repair claim. Certain companies may eliminate deductibles after a customer goes a period of time with no claims filed.

Reputation

A home warranty company's reputation provides insights into factors such as contractor expertise, claim approval rates, repair speed, and customer satisfaction. Look at review sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or TrustPilot to learn more about providers. Positive reviews and ratings suggest a company known for quality service.

Contractor Network

Home warranty companies maintain networks of technicians to handle covered repairs. More extensive networks improve the probability of getting qualified technicians to service your home ASAP. Contact potential providers to find out how many contractors they have in Merced to get a sense of how soon your repairs could be handled in an emergency.

Added Benefits

Some home warranty providers offer extras such as energy efficiency upgrades, maintenance discounts, and smart home device protection. These add value beyond repair coverage. Extra bonuses can maximize the usefulness of the home warranty.

Is a Home Warranty Worth it in Merced?


Benefits of a Home Warranty

Temperatures in Merced can get quite high in the summer, which means your air conditioner is most likely going to get a lot of use. As a homeowner in Merced, one of the benefits of having a home warranty is knowing that these home systems and major appliances can be covered if they have to be repaired or replaced.

Along with saving you money on out-of-pocket expenses, a home warranty can provide you peace of mind and save you the hassle of trying to find a qualified contractor to visit your home. Home warranties usually have a network of pre-vetted technicians who can handle any repair issues you may have. Additionally, though it varies by company, some providers will let you transfer your warranty in the event that you sell your home. This can make your home more attractive to potential homebuyers and help your home sell faster.

Downsides of a Home Warranty

One downside of a home warranty is that there are usually exclusions. For instance, if you already have a manufacturer's warranty on one of your appliances, it may not be included in the home warranty, so it’s important to read over the contracts you’re considering thoroughly to get a sense of what is included and what isn’t.

Another drawback is that home warranties may not include some repairs, like those due to natural disasters. For example, if your HVAC system is damaged from an animal infestation, the affected systems and appliances most likely won’t be covered by the home warranty.

Our Recommended Providers

Advertisement This site receives compensation from some of the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. When you click "Get Quote," you will be connected with partners who may contact you with information related to your inquiry. This listing doesn't feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Top Pick
4.1/5
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Decent coverage caps
  • No exclusions for older homes
Best For First Time Homeowners
4.2/5
  • The oldest and most trusted company in the industry
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best for Customization
4.5/5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Merced, CA

A home warranty in Merced can cost anywhere from $30 to $60 a month. Higher-priced plans tend to have a lower service fee, higher coverage limits, and broader coverage. This cost is often lower if you pay annually instead of monthly. Some providers will also decrease your up-front costs when you opt for a higher service fee.

Home warranties and home insurance differ in what types of damage they cover. Home warranty policies cover problems related to home systems and appliances that need repairs or replacements due to normal wear and tear. A home insurance policy is a different insurance that protects the entire home from natural disasters, which might not be too much of a concern in Merced. It doesn't cover a normal appliance or system breakage.

Homebuyers, home sellers, homeowners, landlords, and real estate agents can all get home warranty plans. A home warranty can help make your property more appealing to prospective buyers and save you money in the long run.

A home warranty plan will cover your appliances, systems, or both. Combination plans are great if you'd like more coverage for your home, but a system- or appliance-only plan can be useful if you want to save some money.

Home warranty plans generally provide coverage for a year. Many companies let you renew your plan each year, and some offer month-to-month plans as well.

Usually, the homeowner is the one who is responsible for paying the premium and service fees. However, if you have just bought a new home, sometimes the seller is the one who paid for the policy. This can then be transferred to the new homeowner, who will pay the service fees. In Merced, where the median value of a home is $378,722, having the seller pay for the home warranty can be a good asset for your new home.

Other Merced, CA Home Services