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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: February 05, 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

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4.4/5

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 Business BBB Rating: B
Best Customer Ratings

Liberty Home Guard

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4.5/5

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 Business BBB Rating: A+
Best Value

Select Home Warranty

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4.3/5

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 Business BBB Rating: B-
Best for Customization

AFC Home Warranty

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4.6/5

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 Business BBB Rating: B
Best Appliance Coverage

First American Home Warranty

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4.6/5

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 Business BBB Rating: B
Cheapest Appliances Plan

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty

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4.6/5

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 Business BBB 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 worth it 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 has fairly mild winters, but it's still important to make sure your heating works when needed. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.

Even the infrequent rain in San Diego can damage your home's roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. 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 give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your problem.

What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company

These key factors can help you choose the right home warranty plan for your needs.

Cost

We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home. From this we determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee of between $65–$125 whenever you file a claim. Comprehensive home warranties cost more than basic ones, and home systems coverage plans cost more than appliance plans. You can select add-on coverage options, but these will increase your monthly cost. Consider your specific needs before selecting a plan.

Coverage

Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Think about which systems and appliances you use often and want coverage for. If you only need coverage for select appliances or systems (such as your air conditioning), you can often find plans to fit. 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. Choosing a plan with higher coverage caps makes more sense for a home with older appliances or systems. Note that, based on our research, companies with higher coverage caps tend to charge higher premiums.

Exclusions

Most home warranties only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Additionally, home warranties don't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, theft, or routine maintenance. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. We recommend reading it to understand your plan's specific terms and conditions.

Provider Reputation

Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can browse customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews 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 does not require home warranties. However, home warranties are beneficial because they help you maintain a budget to cover expensive appliance and system breakdowns. Home warranty providers also help you save time by sourcing reputable technicians themselves.

What are preexisting conditions?

Preexisting conditions are breakdowns or issues experienced by a home system or appliance before warranty coverage starts. Providers generally won't cover preexisting conditions. You should purchase a home warranty policy while all your appliances and systems are still in working order to ensure complete protection.

What is the best home warranty provider in San Diego?

The best home warranty in San Diego depends on what you're looking for. American Home Shield is a good choice for comprehensive coverage limits. You may also consider Liberty Home Guard if you need unique coverage.

Do home warranties cover other types of home items?

Yes, you can get a home warranty that covers home items beyond common appliances and systems. For instance, some policies might cover septic systems, stand-alone freezers, sump pumps, well pumps, or pools and spas. These are normally considered add-ons. Check with a company representative to determine what add-ons are 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 ensure any system and appliance breakdowns are from normal wear and tear rather than a preexisting condition. Home warranty providers won't cover an already broken item.

How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?

A home warranty policy only covers household systems and appliances that need repairs or replacements due to normal wear and tear. Homeowners insurance, on the other hand, provides coverage for your home for damage from disasters like fires, accidents, and property losses.

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

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