The Hidden Cost of Lost Warranties
The average household has $3,000–$5,000 in active warranties at any given time. That includes everything from your phone to your dishwasher to your mattress.
Most people don't track them. When something breaks, they either don't realize they have a warranty, or they can't find the proof of purchase needed to file a claim.
The result? You pay out of pocket for repairs and replacements that should be free. A single missed warranty claim on a major appliance can cost you $500–$2,000 or more.
Types of Warranties to Track
Most people only think about manufacturer warranties, but there are several types you should be tracking. If you're also building a home inventory for insurance purposes, warranty details belong there too — one system for both.
Manufacturer Warranty
Comes with the product. Typically 1–2 years for electronics, up to 10 years for appliances. Free, but you need proof of purchase.
Extended / Purchased Warranty
Third-party coverage like Asurion, AppleCare, or retailer protection plans. You paid extra for this — don't let it go to waste.
Credit Card Purchase Protection
Many credit cards add 1 extra year of warranty to purchases. Check your card benefits — you might have coverage you didn't know about.
Home Warranty
Whole-home coverage for major systems and appliances. Annual contracts with service call fees. Track the coverage dates and what's included.
What to Record for Each Warranty
For every warranted item, keep track of these details:
- ✓Item name and model — be specific enough to identify the exact product
- ✓Purchase date and price — when you bought it and what you paid
- ✓Warranty start and end dates — these aren't always the same as purchase date
- ✓Proof of purchase — a photo or scan of the receipt
- ✓Warranty terms and conditions — what's covered and what's not
- ✓Contact info for claims — phone number, website, or email for filing
Setting Up Reminders
Knowing where your warranties are stored doesn't help if they expire before you notice. Set reminders so you can inspect and file before coverage runs out.
Get notified 30 days before expiration
This gives you time to inspect the item and file a claim if there's an issue before your coverage ends.
Review annually
Once a year, go through your warranty list. Remove expired ones and make sure new purchases are tracked.
Check before scheduling repairs
Before calling a repair technician, check your warranty status. You might be covered for a free fix. If the manufacturer denies your claim, see our guide on what to do when a warranty claim is denied.
How Keen Owner Helps
Keen Owner automates warranty tracking so you don't have to think about it:
Automatic expiration tracking
Enter the warranty dates when you add an item. We handle the rest.
Email reminders at 30, 7, and 1 day before expiration
Multiple reminders so nothing slips through the cracks.
Store receipts and warranty docs together
Proof of purchase and warranty details in one place. No more searching through email or file cabinets.
One-click warranty status for all your items
See which warranties are active, expiring soon, or expired — all on one dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep track of product warranties?
The most reliable way to track warranties is a dedicated app that stores the purchase date, expiration date, and receipt photo per item, and sends an alert before the warranty expires. Spreadsheets work but require manual checking. Physical folders get lost.
How long are most appliance warranties?
Most major appliances carry a 1-year limited warranty on parts and labor. Refrigerator compressors typically have 5-year warranties. Water heater tanks usually carry 6–12 year warranties depending on the model. HVAC heat exchangers often have 20-year or lifetime warranties.
What information do I need to make a warranty claim?
To make a warranty claim you typically need: the original receipt (proof of purchase date), the model and serial number, and sometimes proof of proper maintenance. Without the receipt, many manufacturers will deny the claim or use the manufacture date as the start date — shortening your coverage.
Is a home warranty the same as a manufacturer warranty?
No. A manufacturer warranty is included with a product and covers defects for a specific period. A home warranty is a separate paid service contract that covers repair costs when systems break down from normal wear and tear, typically after the manufacturer warranty expires.
Can I still make a warranty claim without a receipt?
Sometimes, but it's harder. Some manufacturers accept credit card statements or look up the manufacture date by serial number. Without a receipt, you lose control over the clock — the manufacturer sets the start date, not you.
Start Tracking Today
Don't wait until something breaks. Start tracking your warranties now — it takes less than a minute per item. It's free to get started.
Track Your Warranties Free