A single repair for an industrial washer or dryer can cost 500–500–2,000+. With heavy daily use, warranties are your safety net against unexpected breakdowns. But not all warranties are equal—here’s how to spot the best coverage for your business.

Why Commercial Laundry Warranties Matter

Key Types of Commercial Laundry Warranties

1. Parts Warranty

   • Covers replacements for motors, pumps, control panels, etc.

   • Duration: 1–5 years (brand-dependent).

   • Example: Speed Queen offers 5-year parts coverage on most washers.

2. Labor Warranty

   • Pays for technician time to fix issues.

   • Duration: Often 1–3 years (shorter than parts).

   • Watch out: Many brands exclude labor after Year 1.

3. Extended Service Plans

   • Add-on coverage for 3–5 extra years (costs 10–20% of machine price).

   • Best for: High-use facilities like hospitals or laundromats.

4. Conditional Warranties

   • Only valid if you use approved detergents, follow maintenance schedules, or hire certified technicians.

6 Critical Questions to Ask About Warranties

1. What’s covered?

   • Parts, labor, or both?

   • Example: Dexter’s basic warranty covers parts for 3 years but labor for 1.

2. What’s excluded?

   • Common exclusions:

     • Damage from hard water, incorrect voltage, or unapproved cleaners.

     • Wear-and-tear parts (belts, hoses, lint filters).

3. Is preventative maintenance required?

   • Many warranties require annual servicing by certified technicians.

4. How are claims handled?

   • Look for 24/7 support and guaranteed 48-hour response times.

5. Is the warranty transferable?

   • Important if selling the machine later.

6. Does it cover on-site repairs?

   • Avoid warranties that force you to ship machines for service.

Comparison: Top Commercial Laundry Warranties (2024)

Red Flags in Laundry Machine Warranties

🚩 "Limited Lifetime" Vague Terms: Often excludes critical components.🚩 DIY Repairs Void Coverage: Requires certified technicians.🚩 No Loaner Equipment: Downtime could cost thousands in lost revenue.🚩 Regional Service Restrictions: Ensure providers operate in your area.

Real-World Example: Good vs. Bad Warranty

Scenario: A laundromat’s 50lb washer motor fails in Year 2.

• Good Warranty (Speed Queen): Free part + labor. Cost: $0.

• Bad Warranty (Generic Brand): Motor excluded as "wear-and-tear." Cost: $1,200.

FAQs About Commercial Laundry Warranties

Q: Does hard water void my warranty?A: Often yes—unless you install a water softener (required by some brands).

Q: Can I extend my warranty after purchase?A: Yes, but it’s 10–30% cheaper to buy upfront with the machine.

Q: Are belts and hoses covered?A: Rarely—they’re considered wear-and-tear items.

Q: How do I file a warranty claim?A: Contact the manufacturer or dealer with your serial number and proof of maintenance.

Pro Tips for Maximizing Warranty Value

1. Document Everything: Keep service records, receipts, and maintenance logs.

2. Buy from Reputable Dealers: They often offer better support than third-party sellers.

3. Negotiate: Ask for free extended labor coverage when purchasing multiple machines.

4. Read Reviews: Check sites like Trustpilot for complaints about claim denials.

Conclusion

A strong commercial laundry machine warranty is as crucial as the equipment itself. Prioritize brands like Speed Queen or UniMac that offer long-term parts/labor coverage and clear terms. Always read the fine print—especially exclusions—before signing.