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Best 6 Home Warranty Companies in San Diego, CA

  1. Home
  2. Local Pros
  3. Home Warranty
  4. CA
  5. San Diego
Written By Jessica Hurtault|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Owning a home in California can be expensive. Not only that, but many cities in the Golden State see days of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Many homeowners rely on their air conditioning to deal with extreme heat.

According to the American Housing Survey, 10.7 million California homes have primary AC, such as central air. If your central AC breaks down, a home warranty can help resolve the problem. Below is our list of the best home warranty providers in San Diego, California.

Best Customer Ratings
4.5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages
Best for Comprehensive Coverage
4.4
  • Offers generous coverage caps
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Provides the option to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best Value
4.3
  • Provides low service fees compared to other home warranty providers
  • Includes two extra months of coverage in annual signup
  • Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option

6 Best Home Warranty Companies in San Diego

Best for Comprehensive Coverage

American Home Shield

Pros

  • Offers generous coverage caps
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Provides the option to choose the service fee you want to pay

Cons

  • Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician
  • Offers limited add-on options
Plan Name ShieldSilver
Monthly Cost $29.99 – $39.99
Service Fee $100.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air Conditioner, Alarm, Attic fans, Bath exhaust fans, Ceiling fans, Cooktop exhaust, Doorbell, Ductwork, Electrical, Faucets and Valves, Garage door, Heating system, Main breaker fuse box, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Rekey services, Toilet, Water dispenser, Water heater

Add-on Items

Electronics, Guest Unit, Pool, Roof-leak, Spa, Septic pump, Well pump

Plan Name ShieldGold
Monthly Cost $49.99 – $59.99
Service Fee $100.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air Conditioner, Alarm, Attic fans, Bath exhaust fans, Built-in microwave, Ceiling fans, Cooktop, Cooktop exhaust, Dishwasher, Doorbell, Ductwork, Electrical, Faucets and Valves, Garbage disposal, Garage door, Heating system, Instant hot and cold water dispenser, Main breaker fuse box, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Rekey services, Range, Toilet, Water dispenser, Water heater

Add-on Items

Electronics, Guest Unit, Pool, Roof-leak, Spa, Septic pump, Well pump

Plan Name ShieldPlatinum
Monthly Cost $79.99 – $89.99
Service Fee $100.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air Conditioner, Alarm, Attic fans, Bath exhaust fans, Built-in microwave, Ceiling fans, Cooktop, Cooktop exhaust, Dishwasher, Doorbell, Ductwork, Electrical, Faucets and Valves, Garbage disposal, Garage door, Heating system, Instant hot and cold water dispenser, Main breaker fuse box, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Range, Refrigerator, Rekey services, Roof-leak, Toilet, Water dispenser, Water heater

Add-on Items

Electronics, Guest Unit, Pool, Spa, Septic pump, Well pump

52 Years in BusinessBBB Rating: B
Best Customer Ratings

Liberty Home Guard

Pros

  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages

Cons

  • Lacks transparency on service call fee pricing
  • Excludes coverage for known or unknown pre-existing conditions
Plan Name Appliance Guard
Monthly Cost $49.99
Service Fee $65.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Ceiling fan, Cooktop, Cooktop exhaust fan, Disposal, Dishwasher, Dryer, Garage door, Microwave, Oven, Range, Refrigerator, Washer

Add-on Items

Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof-leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge

Plan Name Systems Guard
Monthly Cost $54.99
Service Fee $65.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Ductwork, Electrical, Heating system, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Toilet, Water heater

Add-on Items

Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof-leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge

Plan Name Total Home Guard
Monthly Cost $59.99
Service Fee $65.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Ceiling fan, Cooktop, Cooktop exhaust fan, Disposal, Dishwasher, Dryer, Ductwork, Electrical, Garage door, Heating system, Microwave, Oven, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Refrigerator ice maker, Toilet, Washer, Water heater

Add-on Items

Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof-leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge

6 Years in BusinessBBB Rating: A+
Best Value

Select Home Warranty

Pros

  • Provides low service fees compared to other home warranty providers
  • Includes two extra months of coverage in annual signup
  • Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option

Cons

  • Has a $75 cancellation fee
  • Low coverage caps
Plan Name Bronze Care Plan
Monthly Cost $44.42
Service Fee $75.00
Items Covered

Cooktop, Disposal, Dishwasher, Dryer, Microwave, Oven, Refrigerator, Stove, Washer

Add-on Items

Central Vacuum, Pool, Roof leaks, Septic system, Spa, Sprinkler, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Gold Care Plan
Monthly Cost $44.42
Service Fee $75.00
Items Covered

Air Conditioner, Ductwork, Electrical, Heating system, Plumbing, Water heater

Add-on Items

Central Vacuum, Pool, Roof leaks, Septic system, Spa, Sprinkler, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Platinum Care Plan
Monthly Cost $47.75
Service Fee $75.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Cooktop, Disposal, Dishwasher, Dryer, Ductwork, Electrical, Heating system, Microwave, Oven, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Stove, Washer, Water heater

Add-on Items

Central Vacuum, Pool, Roof leaks, Septic system, Spa, Sprinkler, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

11 Years in BusinessBBB Rating: B-
Best for Customization

AFC Home Warranty

Pros

  • Provides an unlimited workmanship guarantee
  • Offers generous appliance coverage limits
  • Allows you to choose your own contractor

Cons

  • Limits coverage limits for older items based on depreciated value
  • Requires you to file a claim immediately after discovering an issue
Plan Name Silver Plan
Monthly Cost $42.17 – $47.00
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Garage door opener, Kitchen refrigerator, Oven, Range, Stove

Add-on Items

Built-in microwave, Central vacuum, Double oven, Electonics coverage, Hot water dispenser, Ice maker, In-ground pool, In-ground pool and spa, Roof-leak, Septic system, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Systems Plan
Monthly Cost $49.42 – $54.25
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Electrical, Heating system, Plumbing, Water heater

Add-on Items

Built-in microwave, Central vacuum, Double oven, Electonics coverage, Hot water dispenser, Ice maker, In-ground pool, In-ground pool and spa, Roof-leak, Septic system, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Gold Plan
Monthly Cost $56.67 – $61.05
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical, Garbage disposal, Garage door opener, Heating system, Kitchen refrigerator, Oven, Plumbing, Range, Stove, Water heater

Add-on Items

Built-in microwave, Central vacuum, Double oven, Electonics coverage, Hot water dispenser, Ice maker, In-ground pool, In-ground pool and spa, Roof-leak, Septic system, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Platinum Plan
Monthly Cost $61.05 – $66.33
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Attic fan, Built-in microwave, Ceiling fan, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical, Exhaust fan, Faucets, Garbage disposal, Garage door opener, Heating system, Ice maker, Kitchen refrigerator, Oven, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Range, Stove, Water heater

Add-on Items

Central vacuum, Double oven, Electonics coverage, Hot water dispenser, In-ground pool, In-ground pool and spa, Roof-leak, Septic system, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

14 Years in BusinessBBB Rating: B
Best Appliance Coverage

First American Home Warranty

Pros

  • Allows you to choose your service call fee
  • Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork
  • Accepts 24/7 service calls

Cons

  • Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor
  • Charges higher for coverage compared to other providers
Plan Name Starter Plan
Monthly Cost $47.00 – $67.00
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Built-in microwave, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical system, Heating system, Kitchen range hood, Oven/cooktop, Plumbing system, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Toilet tanks/bowls/mechanisms

Add-on Items

Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, First American Advantage, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Essential Plan
Monthly Cost $52.00 – $72.00
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwave, Ceiling/attic/exhaust fans, Clothes washer, Clothes dryer, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical system, First American Advantage, Garage door opener, Heating system, Kitchen range hood, Oven/cooktop, Plumbing system, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Toilet tanks/bowls/mechanisms, Trash compactor, Water heater

Add-on Items

Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Premium Plan
Monthly Cost $67.00 – $87.00
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwave, Ceiling/attic/exhaust fans, Central vacuum system, Clothes washer, Clothes dryer, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical system, Faucets, First American Advantage, Full garage door system, Garbage disposal, Heating system, Instant hot water dispenser, Kitchen range hood, Luxury appliance coverage, Oven/cooktop, Plumbing system, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Shower head/shower arm, Toilet tanks/bowls/mechanisms, Trash compactor, Water heater, Window AC unit

Add-on Items

Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump

39 Years in BusinessBBB Rating: B
Cheapest Appliances Plan

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty

Pros

  • Offers a $25,000 annual coverage cap
  • Pairs plans with a plan-length workmanship guarantee
  • Offers unique perks such as color matching appliance replacements

Cons

  • Charges a monthly processing fee if you choose monthly premiums
  • Excludes washer and dryer coverage from most plans
Plan Name Simply HVAC
Monthly Cost $39.70 – $50.20
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Heat pumps, Heating system, Thermostat

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Plumbing and electrical, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Supreme Package, Washer and dryer, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Simply Kitchen
Monthly Cost $22.00 – $31.00
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Built-in microwaves, Cooktops, Dishwashers, Ovens, Ranges, Refrigerators

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Plumbing and electrical, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Supreme Package, Washer and dryer, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Essential Home
Monthly Cost $51.37 – $61.81
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwaves, Cooktops, Dishwashers, Heat pumps, Heating system, Ovens, Ranges, Refrigerators, Thermostat

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Plumbing and electrical, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Supreme Package, Washer and dryer, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Complete Home
Monthly Cost $51.00 – $60.00
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwaves, Cooktops, Dishwashers, Electrical, Heat pumps, Heating system, Ovens, Plumbing, Ranges, Refrigerators, Thermostat

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Supreme Package, Washer and dryer, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Pinnacle Home
Monthly Cost $71.00 – $80.00
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwaves, Clothes Dryer, Clothes Washer, Cooktops, Dishwashers, Electrical, Heat pumps, Heating system, Ovens, Plumbing, Ranges, Refrigerators, Supreme Package, Thermostat

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Water softener, Well pump

39 Years in BusinessBBB Rating: A-

*BBB ratings are accurate as of August 2023.

**Cost figures are based on information available on provider websites and are accurate as of August 2023. Request a quote from each company to see prices in your area.

Facts about San Diego
Average Max Temp:72°F
Average Min Temp:54°F
Average Annual Snowfall:0"
Homeownership Rate:53%
Median Home Size:1710 sqft
Median Home Price:$950,012

Expert Tips By

This Old House empowers homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle various projects and navigate the complexities of homeownership.

Are Home Warranties Worth It for San Diego Residents?

Yes, home warranties are advantageous for San Diego residents. San Diego summers are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner works well. However, over time this system can malfunction from heavy use.

San Diego winters are fairly mild, but you still want a reliable heating system. Replacing your HVAC system can cost between $2,500 and $8,000, compared to a home warranty costing roughly $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation. Even San Diego's irregular rain can affect your roof.

Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of repair. Lastly, a home warranty connects you with trustworthy service providers. Investing in a reputable home warranty company is worth it because companies vet their technicians.

If you don't have time to do the research yourself, your home warranty company can ensure that someone reliable will handle your issue.

What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company

Consider these important factors when picking your home warranty plan.

Cost

We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home. From this we determined that the average home warranty cost is $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee of roughly $65–$125 every time you file a claim. Basic home warranty plans are typically more affordable than comprehensive ones. A home systems coverage plan will usually cost more than an appliance plan. You can often get add-on coverage for an additional monthly cost. Be sure you know what you need before choosing a plan.

Coverage

Figure out which appliances and systems you use most often. You'll want a home warranty plan that covers these items. Most home warranties can be customized to your needs, and many companies offer systems-only plans for homeowners that only want select coverage (such as for air conditioning). You can also get a plan that only covers select appliances. The following is a list of common systems coverage:

  • Air conditioner
  • Central vacuum
  • Ductwork
  • Electrical
  • Heating
  • Plumbing
  • Water heater
Commonly covered appliances include the following:
  • Built-in microwaves
  • Clothes washers and dryers
  • Dishwashers
  • Garbage disposals
  • Ovens
  • Refrigerators
  • Stovetops
Also, consider coverage limits. Homeowners with older appliances or systems may opt for a provider with higher coverage limits. Based on our research, providers with higher coverage caps tend to charge higher premiums.

Exclusions

Most home warranties only cover damage from normal wear and tear. They don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. In addition, home warranties don't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Providers outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Make sure you read yours carefully to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.

Provider Reputation

Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can read customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Best Company or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings can provide insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the California Department of Consumer Affairs to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.

Contractor Network

Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Be sure to ask your provider where and how it sources technicians. All reputable companies should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. If you can, use a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas might consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers choose their technicians. It's good to have the option to source your own providers if no in-network ones are available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in San Diego

Is a home warranty required in San Diego?

No, San Diego doesn't require homeowners to have a home warranty. However, we still recommend purchasing one because it helps you maintain a budget to cover expensive system and appliance breakdowns. You'll also save time you'd otherwise spend searching for a reputable service technician.

What are preexisting conditions?

Preexisting conditions are breakdowns or issues experienced by a home system or appliance before your warranty coverage begins. Providers normally don't cover preexisting conditions. Make sure you purchase a home warranty policy while all your systems and appliances are still in working order to ensure complete protection.

What is San Diego's best home warranty provider?

The best home warranty in San Diego depends on your specific needs. Liberty Home Guard is an excellent choice if you need unique coverage. Consider American Home Shield if you're looking for comprehensive coverage limits.

Can I get a home warranty that covers other types of home items?

Yes, you can find a home warranty that covers home items besides common systems and appliances. For instance, some policies may cover pools and spas, septic systems, stand-alone freezers, sump pumps, or well pumps. These are normally considered add-ons. Check with a company representative to determine what add-ons it has available.

Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?

Most home warranty companies have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins. This is to know that any system and appliance breakdowns are from normal wear and tear rather than preexisting conditions. Home warranty providers won't cover an already broken item.

How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance protects against the cost of repairs following events such as due to natural disasters and accidents. In contrast, home warranties cover repairs and replacements of household systems and appliances that stop working due to normal wear and tear.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

More Home Warranty Resources

Sources