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Updated: Apr 3, 2025, 3:45pm
Having the right appliance insurance can prevent inconveniences and expensive repairs if one happens to break. Yet it’s no easy feat to sort through insurance companies to find the best plan for your household’s needs.
We’ve researched and compiled data on 18 of the best home warranty companies, from heavy hitters to lesser-known businesses with standout features. After evaluating each one on over 130 attributes, we determined that Liberty Home Guard offers the best appliance insurance for most homeowners.
Home warranty expert and Forbes Advisory Board member Marcus Hill, who has 20 years of industry experience, notes that it’s important to “ask for clarification on exclusions to ensure you understand what is and isn’t covered” when choosing an insurance company. In other words, do your own research to determine whether a company or plan is right for you.
A recent Forbes home warranty survey shows that, over the last five years, more than 90% of homeowners have spent $2,800 on average to repair or entirely replace their appliances. If you want to count yourself as one of the select few who can rest assured that their appliances are covered in case of an emergency, you’re in the right place.
The Forbes Home team is committed to bringing you independent, unbiased ratings and information. We use data and expert advice to inform all of our content. Plus, our advisory board of licensed professionals fact-checks and reviews our content for accuracy and relevancy. You can read more about our editorial guidelines.
Featured Partners
1
Select Home Warranty
Plans Available
3
Response Time
Great
Number of States
46 + District of Columbia
2
Choice Home Warranty
Plans Available
2
Response Time
Excellent
Number of States
49 + District of Columbia
3
American Home Shield
Plans Available
3
Response Time
Excellent
Number of States
48 + District of Columbia
Key Takeaways
| COMPANY | FORBES ADVISOR RATING | BEST FOR | STARTING MONTHLY RATE | BBB RATING | OPTION TO PICK OWN TECHNICIAN | STATE AVAILABILITY | LEARN MORE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 4.8   | Best Overall | $49.99 | Not Rated | Yes | 50 + District of Columbia
| On Liberty Home Guard's Website | |
| 4.2  | Best Fee Structure | $45.99 | A- | Yes | 50 + District of Columbia | Read Forbes' Review
| |
| 4.0 | Best For Older Appliances | $29.99 | B | Yes | 48 + District of Columbia | On American Home Shield's Website | |
| 3.8 | Best Quality Guarantee | $30.99 | B+ | No | 48 + District of Columbia
| On Cinch's Website | |
| 3.7  | Best Plan Options | $41.83 | B | Yes | 47 + District of Columbia | On AFC's Website |
Best Overall
Best Overall
Liberty Home Guard
Founded in 2017, Liberty Home Guard is one of the newer names in the home warranty and appliance insurance space. However, that hasn’t stopped the company from expanding to offer coverage in every state and the District of Columbia. From Liberty, customers can expect fairly comprehensive and customizable appliance insurance.
Learn more: Liberty Home Guard review
Liberty Home Guard isn’t the least expensive company on our list, but it provides more than worthwhile coverage for the cost. Service fees are incredibly customizable, costing between $65 and $125, with the Appliance Plan starting at $49.99 per month. Customers also routinely share positive experiences about their time with Liberty reps.
Why We Like It
Not only does Liberty Home Guard set itself apart by offering appliance-only insurance, but it also gives customers the choice to add-on coverages for individual appliances, electronics and fixtures. This is unique because many companies focus solely on things like larger home systems and pools. We also appreciate that Liberty often allows homeowners to hire their own contractors for repair work. The company backs service work by offering a 60-day guarantee.
What We Don’t Like
While Liberty Home Guard allows many homeowners to choose a technician they trust for service, there are some stipulations to the policy that we don’t prefer. Namely, Liberty reserves the right to vet and approve any technician presented by the homeowner. Moreover, when it comes to providing payment for repair work, Liberty customers often have to pay for the service fee out of pocket and wait for a reimbursement.
Who It’s Best For
Despite a brief list of shortcomings, Liberty Home Guard is a reliable solution for many homeowners searching for appliance insurance. Whether you live in a single-family residence, a rental, or you’re hoping to secure a commercial property, Liberty can be an asset. Those looking for add-on coverage in addition to Liberty’s standard appliance plan will especially appreciate this company.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Liberty Home Guard has fairly mixed reviews. Many positive reviews mention clear and polite communication from customer service reps and quick assistance. However, in more negative reviews, customers tend to mention claim denials, coverage limitations and delays in service.
Best Fee Structure
Best Fee Structure
ARW Home
ARW Home is well known for providing reputable, highly customizable service. The company opened its doors in 2009 but is an offshoot of parent company AIG Warranty, which has been in operation for 30 years. Customers receive fair pricing and competitive fee structures. However, though ARW maintains an A grade from the BBB as of this writing, reports of the company’s customer service leave room for improvement.
Learn more: ARW Home review
ARW Home is an excellent choice for homeowners who need quality service within their budget. Service fees can cost as little as $55, with the ApplianceMax plan starting at $45.99 per month. Those who want more than just the base level of appliance insurance can get it for an additional fee.
Why We Like It
ARW Home offers a level of customizability that we find incredibly valuable. Only basic appliances are included in the company’s most affordable plan. However, customers can add on coverage as needed without incurring excessive fees. There’s even an electronic insurance plan that adds great value without skyrocketing your monthly costs.
What We Don’t Like
We’re not fans of ARW Home’s $5,000 yearly maximum limit on all claims. Once homeowners surpass that amount, they won’t qualify for any additional protection, even though they must continue to pay their monthly premium. Additionally, customers who wish to cancel their service must do so by mail.
Who It’s Best For
ARW Home is a good choice for the average homeowner, especially those on a budget. However, the annual maximum is on the lower side, so homeowners with older appliances may choose to avoid this company.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Customers have both positive and negative experiences with ARW Home. For some, customer service has been a pain point. There have also been complaints about confusing claim coverage and cancellation delays. However, the company seems to thrive on quick repair times, and certain staff members are reportedly very polite.
On AFC's Website Have you considered AFC Home Warranty?
Whether you need repairs or a new appliance, AFC can help cover the cost of even the most expensive items like HVAC and plumbing. Here’s why we chose it:
Available plans to choose from: Silver Plan, Gold Plan, Platinum Plan, Systems Plan
Three years work guarantee of repairs
Plans include free credit monitoring, family emergency services and discounts on household items, restaurants and more
On AFC's Website 
Best For Older Appliances
Best For Older Appliances
American Home Shield
Founded in 1971, American Home Shield has earned a spot in our best appliance insurance plan review. The company maintains a B rating from the BBB, and while not available in every state, American Home Shield provides quality service that works for many homeowners.
Learn more: American Home Shield review
American Home Shield is a fair choice for homeowners in both older and newer homes. Many companies refuse to cover older appliances with pre-existing conditions, but American Home Shield is not one of them. In fact, the business offers a generous allowance for older items and even covers poor appliance installation and maintenance that may have occurred before the start of service.
Why We Like It
American Home Shield covers appliances that other providers often overlook. Garage door openers, for example, are covered in all three of American Home Shield’s plans. Plus, the company allows for costly repairs. Plans can start as low as $29.99 per month, with service fees ranging from $100 to $125.
What We Don’t Like
American Home Shield doesn’t offer a single appliance-only plan, which knocks it down a few points in our scoring. This is a major deterrent for those who wish to stick to appliance-only coverage to cut costs.
Who It’s Best For
If comprehensive appliance coverage that covers a plethora of electronics is a top priority, American Home Shield will be a good choice.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
American Home Shield has a mixed perception among customers. Those with favorable opinions of the warranty company mention how quick service can be and how professional the company representatives are. The quality of repairs and overall skill level of the technicians are also pros. Other customers, however, express discontent with the quality of customer service they receive. There have also reportedly been many claim denials and vague contracts. Additional negative sentiments dislike the company’s higher prices.
Best Quality Guarantee
Best Quality Guarantee
Cinch Home Services
Cinch Home Services has been a staple in the warranty industry for over 45 years. The company provides comprehensive coverage for most major appliances. While its prices are incredibly affordable, they vary based on location and service fees. We especially appreciate Cinch’s commitment to its customers, as the company maintains high customer reviews across multiple platforms.
Learn more: Cinch Home Services review
We found Cinch Home Service to be an industry leader in customer service and satisfaction guarantees. Thanks, in part, to a 180-day promise on all work performed by Cinch’s approved technicians, customers can feel confident in the quality of repair work they receive. Service fees typically range from $100 to $150. Plans vary in cost by location but tend to start at $30.99 per month.
Why We Like It
We like that Cinch seems to take a customer-first approach to many aspects of the business. Additional protection packages are available for purchase, and they can increase the coverage amount by $1,000 for each appliance on your list. Customization is paramount here.
What We Don’t Like
Cinch would gain even more points if it added more appliances to the list of those covered for repair work. It’s also worth noting that Cinch customers cannot hire their own technicians, which may deter many homeowners.
Who It’s Best For
Cinch Home Services is likely to be a good choice if you want fair coverage for basic appliances. Alternatively, if you have high-end appliances and home systems, it may be wise to research other plans. Those who prioritize staying within a budget are likely to appreciate Cinch’s value for cost.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Cinch Home Services seemingly leaves a bit to be desired regarding customer service. Additionally, dissatisfied homeowners with Cinch mention long wait times and repairs that go uncompleted for too long. The claim process, reimbursement process, and the fact that some company-backed technicians reportedly don’t do their jobs correctly also seem to be pain points. Finally, reviews state that the company sometimes fails to repair appliances that should be covered under warranty.
Best Plan Options
Best Plan Options
AFC Home Warranty
With over 30 years of experience, AFC landed a spot on our best appliance insurance list. The company offers extensive plans that cover nearly all appliances, from common to professional-grade options.
Learn more: AFC Home Warranty review
With four available appliance insurance plans, AFC Home Warranty is the most comprehensive among competitors. You’ll be covered whether you need an extensive or basic plan. There’s even a plan focused solely on covering nine individual items. AFC is also a top pick because it offers the most substantial guarantee for repair work. It will extend until the end of your contract or for up to three years.
Why We Like It
We like that AFC Home Warranty values the services customers need most. The company offers four different appliance insurance plan options and even covers items like stand-alone freezers and built-in microwaves, which are typically excluded from appliance insurance. Service fees usually range from $75 to $125, and its Silver Plan, which covers many appliances, typically starts at $41.83 monthly.
What We Don’t Like
AFC has a substantial cancellation fee of $75, which we don’t love. Additionally, the company doesn’t offer much coverage for appliances with existing problems.
Who It’s Best For
Most homeowners will find this appliance insurance company to be one of the best as long as they don’t live in California, Washington or Hawaii, as AFC doesn’t cover those states. Coverage is comprehensive and relatively affordable for many different budgets.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Customers have both positive and negative things to say about AFC Home Warranty. Satisfied consumers mention how easy it is to opt in to an AFC warranty. They also refer to how well-informed the company reps can be. Dissatisfied customers, however, take issue with service overall. They refer to reimbursement amounts that are too low, claims that are too often denied and some inconsiderate company employees.
To determine the home insurance companies ranking, the Forbes Home editorial team analyzed 52 companies, with each company’s star rating determined by evaluating a variety of metrics and subcategories, including years of experience, signup and restrictions, plan pricing, fees and discounts, coverage features, property coverage, customer reviews and support and nationwide availability.
You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates home warranty companies on our detailed methodology page.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Home Warranty Companies
Home warranties can protect you against unexpected expenses. Receive a custom quote today.
Home warranties provide coverage for home systems and appliances that break after normal use and old age. For this service, homeowners pay a monthly rate and service fees. Appliance insurance affords many homeowners peace of mind: They know that when a covered device breaks, they won’t have to pay for a costly repair out of pocket.
Some companies will have home appliance specific plans that cover things like refrigerators, dishwashers and dryers, while others will combine this coverage with home systems like HVAC and electrical.
Home appliance warranties are typically issued by the manufacturer of the product. Certain warranties often come with purchase and last a certain amount of time. Homeowners may also be able to pay for extended appliance warranties from the manufacturer that go beyond this timeframe.
Homeowners typically purchase appliance insurance from a third-party company. Insurance will also typically cover more incidents than a warranty will. However, it’s vital to compare your options and learn what each would cover before purchasing.
Those with homeowner’s insurance are protected from outside sources, like fires, storms, heavy winds and theft, depending on their specific coverage. Homeowners with appliance insurance will be able to commission repairs for appliances that are aging or damaged due to normal use.
Find the top ranked home warranty company in your area
Home warranties can protect you against unexpected expenses. Click on your state today to find out more.
Some appliance insurance providers cover appliances that are old or have pre-existing problems. This is a rare occurrence, however. Appliance insurance will typically not cover any damage you inflict upon an appliance. We recommend looking into any limitations thoroughly before purchasing.
Finding the right home appliance insurance isn’t just about picking a company with great reviews. These best practices will ensure that the appliance insurance company you select suits your price range, your commitment level and more.
Not all insurance packages are created equally. You’ll be able to find warranty companies with standalone appliance plans as well as companies that offer coverage for entire systems in addition to appliances. If you’d like to protect items that are prone to damage, like washers and dryers, for example, be sure to look for a package that satisfies your unique needs.
Individual service fees (which typically cost anywhere from $55 to $100) will heavily influence the average monthly rate you pay for insurance. If, for example, you choose an appliance insurance company with a lower premium, the service fee is likely to be more costly. You can also expect the average appliance insurance monthly premium to cost between $27 to $100.
Be sure to read and understand the fine print of each appliance insurance provider on your shortlist. Take note of which ones require contracts, which exclude coverage for older appliances and which are better for newer properties and appliances. Accordingly, if you live in an older home with dated appliances, it may be best to steer clear of certain contracts and companies.
Most insurance plans will typically offer coverage from $500 to $6,000, but the coverage limits will vary based on your exact requirements and add-ons. As a general rule, pick a coverage limit that covers the cost if you must replace the appliance in question entirely.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Home Warranty Companies
Free, No-commitment Estimates
On average, homeowners pay anywhere from $27 to $100 for appliance insurance on a monthly basis. Service fees should also be taken into consideration. One visit can cost between $55 and $150 depending on the repair needed. A general rule of thumb: The lower the cost of your monthly rate is, the higher your service fees will be.
Read more about home warranty costs.
Appliance repair costs are heavily determined by the appliance in question. Devices that are more expensive to buy will typically cost more to repair. Large appliances like washers and dryers, for example, can cost $650 or more to service. Alternatively, microwave repairs may cost about $75.
Best Home Warranty Companies By State
Our home warranty content is reinforced by the Forbes Home Advisory Board. Our home warranty experts have more than 20 years of combined first-hand experience in the field. Along with home warranty, our board members boast a depth of knowledge and expertise ranging from property management to home inspections and real estate investing. With their extensive knowledge, these industry experts help us review articles and advise on content at numerous stages in the editorial process, from ideation to publication.
Residential home inspections, rental and investment property inspections
Homeownership, Home Warranty Claims and Coverage, Real Estate Investing, Property Value, Home Insurance
There are many reasons why your home warranty claim may be denied. Some of the most common include lack of maintenance, unauthorized repairs and installation, your request being higher than the coverage cap, and so on. It’s important to carefully review your warranty contract to avoid any surprises. If you feel your claim was unfairly denied, you can send a formal appeal to the company or, depending on where you live, file a complaint with the state.
While it is possible to get a good deal at any time of the year, the best time to buy appliances is typically during specific holidays or holiday weekends. Some popular ones include Presidents Day, Labor Day or New Year’s Day. Another great strategy is to wait until a new model comes out. The older model will likely go on sale shortly after.
According to a Forbes Home survey completed in 2024, washers, dryers and refrigerators are the least reliable appliances.
Lowe Larretta is former lead editor for Forbes Home, covering all things related to home improvement and good design. She previously worked in the decor and lifestyle spaces for digital publishers such as Hunker, First Media and Ranker and has multiple years of experience creating design and DIY content.
Kristin is a deputy editor at Forbes Home and has nearly a decade of professional experience as a writer and editor. She's previously worked at sites like Talking Points Memo, Insider, Delish, Angi and HomeAdvisor. She has a passion for lifestyle topics and has extensive experience researching and reporting on topics that will help make your house a home.
