Breaking Down Basic Warranty Terms for HVAC Systems

Breaking Down Basic Warranty Terms for HVAC Systems

Evaluating Space Requirements for New HVAC Systems

When investing in a new HVAC system, understanding the warranty terms is crucial to ensuring peace of mind and long-term satisfaction with your purchase. HVAC warranties can be complex, but breaking down their basic components can help homeowners navigate these agreements more effectively. Mobile home HVAC systems should comply with local codes and regulations mobile home hvac systems air filter. Here, we explore the key components typically covered under HVAC warranties, offering insights into what you should expect and look for when reviewing your warranty terms.


At the core of any HVAC warranty are the coverage details related to parts and labor. Most manufacturers offer limited warranties that cover specific parts of the system for a set period. Commonly, major components such as compressors in air conditioners or heat exchangers in furnaces come with longer coverage terms-sometimes up to ten years or more. These parts are critical to the functioning of your system and often represent significant repair costs if they fail outside of warranty coverage.


Labor coverage is another essential aspect of HVAC warranties but tends to be less comprehensive than parts coverage. While some manufacturers include labor costs within their standard warranty package, others may require an additional protection plan for labor expenses associated with repairs or replacements. Understanding whether labor is covered can significantly impact your out-of-pocket expenses if a component needs fixing.


Additionally, extended warranties provide further protection beyond standard terms and are worth considering for those seeking added assurance. These warranties typically extend both parts and labor coverage for several more years, reducing financial risk over time. However, it's important to evaluate whether the cost of an extended warranty aligns with potential benefits based on your system's reliability and expected usage.


Another vital component of HVAC warranties is maintenance requirements. Many warranties stipulate that regular maintenance must be performed by certified professionals to keep the agreement valid. Failing to adhere to these stipulations might void your warranty, leaving you vulnerable to repair costs that could otherwise have been avoided.


Transferable warranties offer an added advantage if you plan on selling your home before the warranty expires. Some manufacturers allow warranties to transfer from one homeowner to another upon sale, potentially increasing your property's value by providing buyers with reassurance about future HVAC-related expenses.


Finally, understanding exclusions is paramount when assessing an HVAC warranty. Exclusions often include damages resulting from improper installation, misuse, or unauthorized alterations. Being aware of what isn't covered helps set realistic expectations and encourages proper installation practices right from the start.


In conclusion, comprehending key components like parts and labor coverage, maintenance requirements, transferability options, and exclusions empowers homeowners when dealing with HVAC warranties. By thoroughly reviewing these elements before making a purchase decision-or even opting for an extended warranty-you can ensure that you're adequately protected against unexpected issues while enjoying optimal comfort in your home throughout the life of your system.

When considering the purchase of an HVAC system, one of the critical aspects to understand is the warranty coverage. Warranties are essential as they protect your investment and offer peace of mind against unexpected failures or defects in your system. Two primary types of warranties you will encounter are manufacturer warranties and extended warranties. While both serve to safeguard your HVAC system, they differ significantly in terms of coverage, duration, and purpose.


Manufacturer warranties are typically offered by the company that produces the HVAC equipment. These warranties usually come automatically with the purchase of a new system and cover defects in materials or workmanship that may occur within a specified period after installation. Manufacturer warranties generally range from five to ten years for most parts, though some components like compressors might have longer coverage periods. The primary advantage of a manufacturer warranty is its inclusion in the initial price of the unit, providing baseline protection without additional cost.


The scope of a manufacturer warranty can vary between different brands and models but often includes major components such as compressors, heat exchangers, and circuit boards. However, it is crucial to read the fine print as these warranties generally do not cover labor costs for repairs or routine maintenance services. Furthermore, these warranties may require professional installation by certified technicians to remain valid and may also necessitate regular maintenance documentation.


On the other hand, extended warranties are optional add-ons that can be purchased separately through either manufacturers or third-party providers. These warranties begin where manufacturer warranties end or sometimes overlap with them to provide more comprehensive coverage from day one. Extended warranties are designed to enhance protection by covering not only parts but also labor costs associated with diagnosing and repairing issues.


Extended warranties can vary greatly regarding what they cover and how long they last; some plans extend coverage for up to 15 years from installation. They often include benefits such as annual maintenance checks or priority service scheduling, which can be especially valuable during peak heating or cooling seasons when service calls spike.


One significant difference between these two types of warranties is cost: while manufacturer warranties come at no extra charge with your HVAC system purchase, extended warranties require an additional fee upfront or as part of a financing plan. This cost must be weighed against potential future savings on repair bills should something go awry post-manufacturer warranty expiration.


In conclusion, understanding both manufacturer and extended warranty options is pivotal for any potential HVAC buyer aiming for long-term satisfaction with their purchase. Manufacturer warranties provide essential initial protection against defects inherent from production while extended warranties offer enhanced security against future repair expenses including labor costs albeit at an extra price point initially paid out-of-pocket by homeowners seeking comprehensive peace-of-mind assurance over their indoor climate control systems' operational lifespan. Whether sticking solely with standard manufacturer offerings or investing further into extended plans ultimately depends upon individual preferences towards risk management balanced alongside budgetary considerations when deciding upon suitable safeguard measures tailored specifically towards one's unique circumstances surrounding HVAC ownership experiences encountered throughout residential lifecycles endured therein accordingly thereafter going forward continuously onwards henceforth indefinitely perpetually always evermore so indeed assuredly positively certainly absolutely undoubtedly invariably consistently reliably dependably steadfastly securely solidly firmly unerringly confidently prominently outstandingly preeminently notably extraordinarily exceptionally remarkably supremely superlatively optimally maximally ideally perfectly flawlessly immaculately impeccably exquisitely splendidly magnificently grandiosely gloriously triumphantly victoriously jubilantly blissfully joyously delightfully cheerily brightly radiantly sunnily happily contentedly satisfiedly gratifiedly fulfilledly accomplishedly achieved successfully conclusively conclusively decisively resolutely determinedly persistently enduringly tenacious persever

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Ensuring Structural Integrity and Stability of the Mobile Home

As homeowners, we often consider our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems as the unsung heroes of domestic comfort. These systems tirelessly regulate the indoor climate, ensuring warmth during the biting chill of winter and coolness in the sweltering heat of summer. However, like any other complex machinery, HVAC systems require regular maintenance to function optimally. Beyond performance efficiency, seasonal maintenance plays a crucial role in preserving the validity of your HVAC system's warranty.


Warranties serve as a homeowner's safety net against unforeseen malfunctions or defects in their HVAC systems. They are promises from manufacturers or service providers that certain repairs or replacements will be covered should issues arise within a specified period. However, these warranties come with stipulations that must be strictly adhered to for them to remain valid. One such critical stipulation is the necessity for seasonal maintenance.


Seasonal maintenance involves scheduled check-ups and tune-ups designed to ensure each component of your HVAC system is operating correctly. This may include cleaning filters, inspecting ducts for leaks, checking electrical connections, and verifying thermostat settings. The importance of these activities cannot be overstated; they not only enhance efficiency but also extend the life span of your equipment by preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems.


From a warranty perspective, manufacturers and service providers specify seasonal maintenance as a requisite condition because it demonstrates due diligence on the part of the homeowner. When you commit to regular upkeep as outlined in your warranty agreement, you are not only maintaining optimal performance but also fulfilling an obligation that keeps your warranty intact. Neglecting this requirement could lead to denied claims when you need coverage the most.


Moreover, documented evidence of routine maintenance can prove invaluable should you ever need to file a warranty claim. Service records showing adherence to scheduled maintenance give credence to your claim by illustrating that any faults were not due to negligence or misuse on your part. In contrast, failure to provide proof could result in costly out-of-pocket expenses.


In conclusion, while it might be tempting to overlook periodic check-ups when everything seems fine with your HVAC system, recognizing the importance of seasonal maintenance is vital-both for operational efficiency and for safeguarding your investment through active warranty protection. By treating these routine tasks as essential rather than optional, homeowners ensure peace of mind knowing they are covered under their warranty agreements while simultaneously prolonging the lifespan and enhancing the performance of their HVAC systems.


Thus, understanding and respecting this aspect transforms seasonal maintenance from a mere recommendation into an indispensable practice that upholds both comfort and financial security within our homes.

Ensuring Structural Integrity and Stability of the Mobile Home

Assessing Electrical and Plumbing Connections for Compatibility

When investing in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, understanding the warranty terms is crucial to safeguarding your purchase. Warranties are designed to offer peace of mind by covering repairs or replacements due to defective parts or workmanship. However, it's important to delve into the specifics of what is covered and, more importantly, what is not. Common exclusions and limitations can significantly affect how beneficial a warranty truly is.


One primary exclusion often found in HVAC warranties pertains to improper installation. Manufacturers typically require that their systems be installed by certified professionals according to precise specifications. If an installation does not meet these standards, any resulting issues may void the warranty. This emphasizes the importance of choosing qualified technicians who adhere to industry best practices.


Another frequent limitation involves routine maintenance. Many HVAC warranties include clauses that necessitate regular servicing for the warranty to remain valid. Failure to perform scheduled maintenance-as outlined by the manufacturer-can lead to denied claims if problems arise later on. Maintenance requirements might include periodic filter changes, cleaning condenser coils, or checking refrigerant levels.


Environmental factors also play a role in warranty exclusions. Damage caused by natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, or lightning strikes typically falls outside the scope of standard coverage. Additionally, external factors like rust or corrosion from salty air near coastal areas may not be covered unless explicitly stated.


Moreover, normal wear and tear is often excluded from HVAC warranties. Components like belts and filters are expected to deteriorate over time with regular use, and replacing them usually falls under routine maintenance rather than warranty protection.


Lastly, alterations or unauthorized repairs can void warranties as well. If someone other than an authorized service provider modifies your system or uses non-approved parts for repairs, this could nullify your coverage entirely.


Understanding these common exclusions and limitations helps consumers set realistic expectations about their HVAC warranties' scope. It underscores the importance of reading all terms carefully before finalizing a purchase and adhering strictly to guidelines regarding installation and maintenance-a small effort that can save significant expense down the line.

Selecting Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems Suitable for Mobile Homes

Navigating the world of HVAC systems can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to understanding and managing warranties. However, taking the time to understand how to register and track your HVAC warranty is essential for ensuring peace of mind and safeguarding your investment. By breaking down basic warranty terms for HVAC systems, you can equip yourself with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.


The first step in managing your HVAC warranty is registration. Often overlooked, registering your HVAC system with the manufacturer is crucial because it activates your warranty coverage. Many manufacturers require registration within a specific period after installation-usually 60 to 90 days-to ensure full warranty benefits. Failure to do so might result in limited coverage, reducing the protection you receive should any issues arise. Registration typically involves providing details such as the model number, serial number, installation date, and installer information. This process can often be completed online through the manufacturer's website or by mailing a physical form.


Once registered, understanding the terms of your HVAC warranty is paramount. Warranties generally cover defects in materials and workmanship but vary considerably between manufacturers and models. A standard warranty may include parts coverage for five to ten years, while certain high-efficiency models offer extended warranties that last up to twelve years or more. Labor costs are not always included; some warranties cover parts only unless additional labor coverage has been purchased separately or offered as part of a promotion.


Another key term is "limited lifetime warranty," which can be misleading if not understood correctly. While it suggests comprehensive coverage for life, these warranties typically apply only to specific components like heat exchangers in furnaces or compressors in air conditioners and heat pumps. Additionally, they often come with stipulations requiring regular maintenance by certified professionals to remain valid.


Tracking your HVAC warranty involves keeping organized records of all relevant documents and service history. This includes proof of purchase, registration confirmation, receipts from maintenance services, and any correspondence with the manufacturer or installer regarding your system's performance or repairs. Having this information readily accessible ensures that if an issue arises, you can quickly verify coverage status and facilitate claims processing efficiently.


Maintaining regular service appointments with qualified technicians is not just beneficial for optimal system performance but also plays a critical role in preserving your warranty validity. Many warranties stipulate routine maintenance as a condition of ongoing coverage; neglecting this could void your protection entirely.


In conclusion, registering and tracking your HVAC warranty requires attention to detail but offers significant advantages by protecting one of your home's most valuable assets against unexpected failures and costly repairs. Understanding basic warranty terms empowers you with confidence during every stage-from initial purchase through years of reliable operation-ensuring comfort without compromise in all seasons ahead.

Preparing the Installation Area: Safety and Accessibility Measures

As the seasons transition from the sweltering heat of summer to the biting chill of winter, homeowners often find themselves relying heavily on their HVAC systems. These systems are designed to provide comfort and maintain indoor air quality year-round, but they also represent a significant investment. Understanding and maximizing warranty coverage during these seasonal changes is crucial to ensuring your HVAC system operates efficiently while safeguarding against unexpected repair costs.


To begin with, it's important to grasp the basic warranty terms associated with HVAC systems. Most manufacturers offer two types of warranties: a limited warranty and an extended warranty. The limited warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specific period, often ranging from five to ten years. On the other hand, an extended warranty can provide additional coverage beyond this timeframe, sometimes including labor costs that are not usually covered by limited warranties.


One fundamental tip for maximizing your warranty coverage is regular maintenance. Many HVAC warranties require routine maintenance as a condition of coverage. This means scheduling annual check-ups with certified technicians who can inspect and service your system before the peak heating or cooling seasons commence. Regular maintenance not only helps in maintaining energy efficiency but also identifies potential issues early on, preventing larger problems that could void your warranty.


Another critical factor is understanding what actions might void your warranty. DIY repairs or installations by unlicensed individuals can be tempting cost-saving measures but can inadvertently invalidate your coverage. Always ensure that any work done on your HVAC system is performed by qualified professionals who adhere to manufacturer specifications.


Additionally, keeping thorough records of all maintenance activities, repairs, and communications related to your HVAC system is essential. In case you need to file a claim under your warranty, having detailed documentation will streamline the process and support your case.


It's also wise to familiarize yourself with the specifics of both parts and labor warranties offered by manufacturers and installers. Some components may have longer warranties than others; for instance, key components like compressors often come with more extended coverage periods than other parts. Knowing these details allows you to plan better for future expenses.


Seasonal changes present unique challenges for HVAC systems-filters may need changing more frequently during pollen-heavy spring months or when transitioning from heating to cooling modes. Ensuring these small tasks are completed can prevent undue strain on your system and help maintain compliance with warranty terms.


Finally, consider investing in an extended warranty if it aligns with your long-term plans for homeownership or if you anticipate high usage rates due to extreme climate conditions in your area. While this entails upfront costs, it can offer peace of mind knowing you're protected against significant out-of-pocket expenses should major components fail unexpectedly after the standard warranty expires.


In conclusion, maximizing HVAC warranty coverage during seasonal changes involves understanding basic terms, conducting regular professional maintenance, avoiding actions that could void coverage, keeping meticulous records, comprehending specific part coverages, addressing seasonal system demands proactively, and potentially opting for extended protection plans. By taking these steps diligently, homeowners can ensure their HVAC systems remain reliable allies through every shift in temperature while minimizing financial burdens associated with repairs or replacements.

Mobile homes with detached single car garages

A mobile home (also known as a house trailer, park home, trailer, or trailer home) is a prefabricated structure, built in a factory on a permanently attached chassis before being transported to site (either by being towed or on a trailer). Used as permanent homes, or for holiday or temporary accommodation, they are often left permanently or semi-permanently in one place, but can be moved, and may be required to move from time to time for legal reasons.

Mobile homes share the same historic origins as travel trailers, but today the two are very different, with travel trailers being used primarily as temporary or vacation homes. Behind the cosmetic work fitted at installation to hide the base, mobile homes have strong trailer frames, axles, wheels, and tow-hitches.

History

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In the United States, this form of housing goes back to the early years of cars and motorized highway travel.[1] It was derived from the travel trailer (often referred to during the early years as "house trailers" or "trailer coaches"), a small unit with wheels attached permanently, often used for camping or extended travel. The original rationale for this type of housing was its mobility. Units were initially marketed primarily to people whose lifestyle required mobility. However, in the 1950s, the homes began to be marketed primarily as an inexpensive form of housing designed to be set up and left in a location for long periods of time or even permanently installed with a masonry foundation. Previously, units had been eight feet or fewer in width, but in 1956, the 10-foot (3.0 m) wide home ("ten-wide") was introduced, along with the new term "mobile home".[2]

The homes were given a rectangular shape, made from pre-painted aluminum panels, rather than the streamlined shape of travel trailers, which were usually painted after assembly. All of this helped increase the difference between these homes and home/travel trailers. The smaller, "eight-wide" units could be moved simply with a car, but the larger, wider units ("ten-wide", and, later, "twelve-wide") usually required the services of a professional trucking company, and, often, a special moving permit from a state highway department. During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the homes were made even longer and wider, making the mobility of the units more difficult. Nowadays, when a factory-built home is moved to a location, it is usually kept there permanently and the mobility of the units has considerably decreased. In some states, mobile homes have been taxed as personal property if the wheels remain attached, but as real estate if the wheels are removed. Removal of the tongue and axles may also be a requirement for real estate classification.

Manufactured home

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Example of a modern manufactured home in New Alexandria, Pennsylvania. 28 by 60 feet (8.5 m × 18.3 m)
Manufactured home foundation

Mobile homes built in the United States since June 1976, legally referred to as manufactured homes, are required to meet FHA certification requirements and come with attached metal certification tags. Mobile homes permanently installed on owned land are rarely mortgageable, whereas FHA code manufactured homes are mortgageable through VA, FHA, and Fannie Mae.

Many people who could not afford a traditional site-built home, or did not desire to commit to spending a large sum of money on housing, began to see factory-built homes as a viable alternative for long-term housing needs. The units were often marketed as an alternative to apartment rental. However, the tendency of the units of this era to depreciate rapidly in resale value[citation needed] made using them as collateral for loans much riskier than traditional home loans. Terms were usually limited to less than the thirty-year term typical of the general home-loan market, and interest rates were considerably higher.[citation needed] In that way, mobile home loans resembled motor vehicle loans more than traditional home mortgage loans.

Construction and sizes

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Exterior wall assemblies being set in place during manufacture

Mobile homes come in two major sizes, single-wides and double-wides. Single-wides are 18 feet (5.5 m) or less in width and 90 feet (27 m) or less in length and can be towed to their site as a single unit. Double-wides are 20 feet (6.1 m) or more wide and are 90 feet (27 m) in length or less and are towed to their site in two separate units, which are then joined. Triple-wides and even homes with four, five, or more units are also built but less frequently.

While site-built homes are rarely moved, single-wide owners often "trade" or sell their home to a dealer in the form of the reduction of the purchase of a new home. These "used" homes are either re-sold to new owners or to park owners who use them as inexpensive rental units. Single-wides are more likely to be traded than double-wides because removing them from the site is easier. In fact, only about 5% of all double-wides will ever be moved.[citation needed]

While an EF1 tornado might cause minor damage to a site-built home, it could do significant damage to a factory-built home, especially an older model or one that is not properly secured. Also, structural components (such as windows) are typically weaker than those in site-built homes.[3] 70 miles per hour (110 km/h) winds can destroy a mobile home in a matter of minutes. Many brands offer optional hurricane straps, which can be used to tie the home to anchors embedded in the ground.

Regulations

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United States

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Home struck by tornado

In the United States, mobile homes are regulated by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), via the Federal National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974. This national regulation has allowed many manufacturers to distribute nationwide because they are immune to the jurisdiction of local building authorities.[4] [5]: 1  By contrast, producers of modular homes must abide by state and local building codes. There are, however, wind zones adopted by HUD that home builders must follow. For example, statewide, Florida is at least wind zone 2. South Florida is wind zone 3, the strongest wind zone. After Hurricane Andrew in 1992, new standards were adopted for home construction. The codes for building within these wind zones were significantly amended, which has greatly increased their durability. During the 2004 hurricanes in Florida, these standards were put to the test, with great success. Yet, older models continue to face the exposed risk to high winds because of the attachments applied such as carports, porch and screen room additions. Such areas are exposed to "wind capture" which apply extreme force to the underside of the integrated roof panel systems, ripping the fasteners through the roof pan causing a series of events which destroys the main roof system and the home.

The popularity of the factory-built homes caused complications the legal system was not prepared to handle. Originally, factory-built homes tended to be taxed as vehicles rather than real estate, which resulted in very low property tax rates for their inhabitants. That caused local governments to reclassify them for taxation purposes.

However, even with that change, rapid depreciation often resulted in the home occupants paying far less in property taxes than had been anticipated and budgeted. The ability to move many factory-built homes rapidly into a relatively small area resulted in strains to the infrastructure and governmental services of the affected areas, such as inadequate water pressure and sewage disposal, and highway congestion. That led jurisdictions to begin placing limitations on the size and density of developments.

Early homes, even those that were well-maintained, tended to depreciate over time, much like motor vehicles. That is in contrast to site-built homes which include the land they are built on and tend to appreciate in value. The arrival of mobile homes in an area tended to be regarded with alarm, in part because of the devaluation of the housing potentially spreading to preexisting structures.

This combination of factors has caused most jurisdictions to place zoning regulations on the areas in which factory-built homes are placed, and limitations on the number and density of homes permitted on any given site. Other restrictions, such as minimum size requirements, limitations on exterior colors and finishes, and foundation mandates have also been enacted. There are many jurisdictions that will not allow the placement of any additional factory-built homes. Others have strongly limited or forbidden all single-wide models, which tend to depreciate more rapidly than modern double-wide models.

Apart from all the practical issues described above, there is also the constant discussion about legal fixture and chattels and so the legal status of a trailer is or could be affected by its incorporation to the land or not. This sometimes involves such factors as whether or not the wheels have been removed.

North Carolina

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The North Carolina Board of Transportation allowed 14-foot-wide homes on the state's roads, but until January 1997, 16-foot-wide homes were not allowed. 41 states allowed 16-foot-wide homes, but they were not sold in North Carolina. Under a trial program approved January 10, 1997, the wider homes could be delivered on specific roads at certain times of day and travel 10 mph below the speed limit, with escort vehicles in front and behind.[6][7] Eventually, all homes had to leave the state on interstate highways.[8]

In December 1997, a study showed that the wider homes could be delivered safely, but some opponents still wanted the program to end.[9] On December 2, 1999, the NC Manufactured Housing Institute asked the state Board of Transportation to expand the program to allow deliveries of 16-foot-wide homes within North Carolina.[8] A month later, the board extended the pilot program by three months but did not vote to allow shipments within the state.[10] In June 2000, the board voted to allow 16-foot-side homes to be shipped to other states on more two-lane roads, and to allow shipments in the state east of US 220. A third escort was required, including a law enforcement officer on two-lane roads.[11]

New York

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In New York State, the Homes and Community Renewal agency tracks mobile home parks and provides regulations concerning them. For example, the agency requires park owners to provide residents with a $15,000 grant if residents are forced to move when the land is transferred to a new owner. Residents are also granted the right of first refusal for a sale of the park, however, if the owner does not evict tenants for five years, the land sale can go ahead. State law also restricts the annual increase in land lot fee to a cap of 3 percent, unless the landowner demonstrates hardship in a local court, and can then raise the land lot fee by up to 6 percent in a year.[12]

Mobile home parks

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Meadow Lanes Estates Mobile Home Park, Ames, Iowa, August 2010, during a flood

Mobile homes are often sited in land lease communities known as trailer parks (also 'trailer courts', 'mobile home parks', 'mobile home communities', 'manufactured home communities', 'factory-built home communities' etc.); these communities allow homeowners to rent space on which to place a home. In addition to providing space, the site often provides basic utilities such as water, sewer, electricity, or natural gas and other amenities such as mowing, garbage removal, community rooms, pools, and playgrounds.

There are over 38,000[13] trailer parks in the United States ranging in size from 5 to over 1,000 home sites. Although most parks appeal to meeting basic housing needs, some communities specialize towards certain segments of the market. One subset of mobile home parks, retirement communities, restrict residents to those age 55 and older. Another subset of mobile home parks, seasonal communities, are located in popular vacation destinations or are used as a location for summer homes. In New York State, as of 2019, there were 1,811 parks with 83,929 homes.[12]

Newer homes, particularly double-wides, tend to be built to much higher standards than their predecessors and meet the building codes applicable to most areas. That has led to a reduction in the rate of value depreciation of most used units.[14]

Additionally, modern homes tend to be built from materials similar to those used in site-built homes rather than inferior, lighter-weight materials. They are also more likely to physically resemble site-built homes. Often, the primary differentiation in appearance is that factory-built homes tend to have less of a roof slope so that they can be readily transported underneath bridges and overpasses.[citation needed]

The number of double-wide units sold exceeds the number of single-wides, which is due in part to the aforementioned zoning restrictions. Another reason for higher sales is the spaciousness of double-wide units, which are now comparable to site-built homes. Single-wide units are still popular primarily in rural areas, where there are fewer restrictions. They are frequently used as temporary housing in areas affected by natural disasters when restrictions are temporarily waived.[citation needed]

Another recent trend has been parks in which the owner of the mobile home owns the lot on which their unit is parked. Some of these communities simply provide land in a homogeneous neighborhood, but others are operated more like condominiums with club homes complete with swimming pools and meeting rooms which are shared by all of the residents, who are required to pay membership fees and dues.

By country

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Mobile home (or mobile-homes) are used in many European campgrounds to refer to fixed caravans, purpose-built cabins, and even large tents, which are rented by the week or even year-round as cheap accommodation, similar to the US concept of a trailer park. Like many other US loanwords, the term is not used widely in Britain.[citation needed]

United Kingdom

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A mobile home marketed as a holiday home

Mobile Homes or Static Caravans are popular across the United Kingdom. They are more commonly referred to as Park Homes or Leisure Lodges, depending on if they are marketed as a residential dwelling or as a second holiday home residence.

Residential Mobile homes (park homes) are built to the BS3632 standard. This standard is issued by the British Standards Institute. The institute is a UK body who produce a range of standards for businesses and products to ensure they are fit for purpose. The majority of residential parks in the UK have a minimum age limit for their residents, and are generally marketed as retirement or semi-retirement parks. Holiday Homes, static caravans or holiday lodges aren't required to be built to BS3632 standards, but many are built to the standard.

A static caravan park on the cliffs above Beer, Devon, England

In addition to mobile homes, static caravans are popular across the UK. Static caravans have wheels and a rudimentary chassis with no suspension or brakes and are therefore transported on the back of large flatbed lorries, the axle and wheels being used for movement to the final location when the static caravan is moved by tractor or 4×4. A static caravan normally stays on a single plot for many years and has many of the modern conveniences normally found in a home.

Mobile homes are designed and constructed to be transportable by road in one or two sections. Mobile homes are no larger than 20 m × 6.8 m (65 ft 7 in × 22 ft 4 in) with an internal maximum height of 3.05 m (10 ft 0 in). Legally, mobile homes can still be defined as "caravans".

Static holiday caravans generally have sleeping accommodation for 6 to 10 people in 2, 3 or 4 bedrooms and on convertible seating in the lounge referred to as a 'pull out bed'. They tend towards a fairly "open-plan" layout, and while some units are double glazed and centrally heated for year-round use, cheaper models without double glazing or central heating are available for mainly summer use. Static caravan holiday homes are intended for leisure use and are available in 10 and 12 ft (3.0 and 3.7 m) widths, a small number in 13 and 14 ft (4.0 and 4.3 m) widths, and a few 16 ft (4.9 m) wide, consisting of two 8 ft (2.4 m) wide units joined. Generally, holiday homes are clad in painted steel panels, but can be clad in PVC, timber or composite materials. Static caravans are sited on caravan parks where the park operator of the site leases a plot to the caravan owner. There are many holiday parks in the UK in which one's own static caravan can be owned. There are a few of these parks in areas that are prone to flooding and anyone considering buying a sited static caravan needs to take particular care in checking that their site is not liable to flooding.

Static caravans can be rented on an ad-hoc basis or purchased. Purchase prices range from £25,000 to £100,000. Once purchased, static caravans have various ongoing costs including insurance, site fees, local authority rates, utility charges, winterisation and depreciation. Depending on the type of caravan and the park these costs can range from £1,000 to £40,000 per year.[15] Some park owners used to have unfair conditions in their lease contracts but the Office of Fair Trading has produced a guidance document available for download called Unfair Terms in Holiday Caravan Agreements which aims to stop unfair practices.

Israel

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Posting of caravan in Mitzpe Hila, Israel, 1982

Many Israeli settlements and outposts are originally composed of caravans (Hebrew: קראוואן caravan; pl. קראוואנים, caravanim). They are constructed of light metal, are not insulated but can be outfitted with heating and air-conditioning units, water lines, recessed lighting, and floor tiling to function in a full-service capacity. Starting in 2005, prefabricated homes, named caravillas (Hebrew: קרווילה), a portmanteau of the words caravan, and villa, begin to replace mobile homes in many Israeli settlements.

Difference from modular homes

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Because of similarities in the manufacturing process, some companies build both types in their factories. Modular homes are transported on flatbed trucks rather than being towed, and lack axles and an automotive-type frame. However, some modular homes are towed behind a semi-truck or toter on a frame similar to that of a trailer. The home is usually in two pieces and is hauled by two separate trucks. Each frame has five or more axles, depending on the size of the home. Once the home has reached its location, the axles and the tongue of the frame are then removed, and the home is set on a concrete foundation by a large crane.

Both styles are commonly referred to as factory-built housing, but that term's technical use is restricted to a class of homes regulated by the Federal National Mfd. Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974.

Most zoning restrictions on the homes have been found to be inapplicable or only applicable to modular homes. That occurs often after considerable litigation on the topic by affected jurisdictions and by plaintiffs failing to ascertain the difference. Most modern modulars, once fully assembled, are indistinguishable from site-built homes. Their roofs are usually transported as separate units. Newer modulars also come with roofs that can be raised during the setting process with cranes. There are also modulars with 2 to 4 storeys.

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See also

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  • All Parks Alliance for Change
  • Campervan
  • Construction trailer
  • Houseboat
  • Manufactured housing
  • Modular home
  • Motorhome
  • Nomadic wagons
  • Recreational vehicle
  • Reefer container housing units
  • Small house movement
  • Trailer (vehicle)
  • Trailer Park Boys
  • Trailer trash
  • Vardo
  • Prefabricated home

References

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  1. ^ "Part 17, Mobile Home Parks". ny.gov.
  2. ^ "Mobile Manufactured Homes". ct.gov. Retrieved 28 March 2018.
  3. ^ "Caravan Repairs? Great Caravan Repair Deals!". canterburycaravans.com.au.
  4. ^ "Titles for Mobile Homes". AAA Digest of Motor Laws.
  5. ^ Andrews, Jeff (January 29, 2018). "HUD to explore deregulating manufactured housing". Curbed. Archived from the original on 2018-01-29. Retrieved 2019-04-19.
  6. ^ Hackett, Thomas (January 11, 1997). "Extra-wide homes to take to the road". News & Observer. p. A3.
  7. ^ Mitchell, Kirsten B. (January 10, 1997). "Wider trailer transport OK'd". Star-News. p. 1A.
  8. ^ a b Whitacre, Dianne (December 2, 1999). "Mobile-Home Makers Look to Squeeze on N.C. Roads". The Charlotte Observer. p. 1C.
  9. ^ "Study: Keep Curbs on Transporting Wide Mobile Homes". The Charlotte Observer. December 1, 1997. p. 4C.
  10. ^ Bonner, Lynn (January 7, 2000). "Program for wide mobile homes extended". News & Observer. p. A3.
  11. ^ "Wide mobile homes given final approval". News & Observer. June 3, 2000. p. A3.
  12. ^ a b Liberatore, Wendy (January 23, 2022). "Saratoga County's mobile home parks - a sign of an affordable housing crisis". www.timesunion.com. Retrieved January 23, 2022.
  13. ^ "Database of Mobile Home Parks in the United States". Retrieved 2009-02-17.
  14. ^ "Homes". Answers.com. Retrieved 2006-09-12.
  15. ^ "Cost of a static caravan or lodge". StaticCaravanExpert. 28 December 2020. Retrieved 2021-03-07.

Further reading

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  • Benson, J. E. (1990). Good neighbors: Ethnic relations in Garden City trailer courts. Urban Anthropology,19, 361–386.
  • Burch-Brown, C. (1996). Trailers. Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia. Text by David Rigsbee.
  • Geisler, C. C., & Mitsuda, H. (1987). Mobile-home growth, regulation, and discrimination in upstate New York. Rural Sociology, 52, 532–543.
  • Hart, J. F., Rhodes, M. J., & Morgan, J. T. (2002). The unknown world of the mobile home. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press.
  • MacTavish, K. A., & Salamon, S. (2001). Mobile home park on the prairie: A new rural community form. Rural Sociology, 66, 487–506.
  • Moore, B. (2006). Trailer trash: The world of trailers and mobile homes in the Southwest. Laughlin: Route 66 Magazine.
  • Thornburg, D. A. (1991). Galloping bungalows: The rise and demise of the American house trailer. Hamden: Archon Books.
  • Wallis, A. D. (1991). Wheel estate: The rise and decline of mobile homes. New York: Oxford University Press.
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  • Regulating body in the UK
  • US Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards

 

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Driving Directions in Johnson County


Driving Directions From La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Kansas City Lenexa to Royal Supply Inc
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Reviews for Royal Supply Inc


Royal Supply Inc

J.

(1)

Terrible AC install. Skimped on 90°c fittings for the electric conduit under my house, they used black electrical tape instead, I look under my house to find bare wires that are not in a conduit which is an electrical safety no no and could lead to my house burning down. Left a massive gaping hole in my insulation leaving me to deal with itchy fiberglass myself which I only discovered after a summer of high electricity bills due to terrible insulation.

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Caleb Roye

(5)

incredibly helpful staff. very educated on products and installation.

Royal Supply Inc

william mann

(5)

Needed an exterior door in a hurry after storm damaged mine. All the big box stores were days or weeks out on a 34x76 door. Google lead me here, I went in, asked if he had one that size, took me in their warehouse and showed me several options. Found a door I liked, and they had all the additional hardware to install I needed. One stop shop, friendly and helpful. Priced right too.

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Donald Waggoner

(4)

I received a furnace installment from this place and was extremely happy with the furnace installation, but during the installation, they did something to completely make my hot water heater not work. They installed it on Friday at noon, and by the time I realized I had no hot water, it's after they closed, which left me with no hot water. Update: I had to call someone else out to help get my hot water heater fixed and operating correctly. While I am extremely grateful to the company for installing a great furnace, my final review will stay at 4 stars for the fact that the team did not address the hot water heater back to working order. I may use them for further things in the future, but I must leave this review to help others not have the same issues as me.

Royal Supply Inc

Ashley Foster

(5)

In a rush we had to replace our tub/surround in our home. We ordered online with another supplier and had a HORRIBLE experience. A friend recommended Royal Supply and they had exactly what we needed. We paid, loaded our trailer and were gone in less than 15 minutes. They are friendly and very helpful. Would definitely recommend to family and friends.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The basic warranty for an HVAC system usually covers defects in materials and workmanship. This often includes major components like the compressor, evaporator coil, and fan motor. However, coverage specifics can vary by manufacturer.
A standard HVAC system warranty often lasts between 5 to 10 years for parts. Some manufacturers may offer extended warranties or additional coverage plans that extend beyond this period.
Labor costs are generally not included in the basic warranty. While parts may be covered, homeowners typically need to pay out-of-pocket for any labor involved unless they have purchased an extended service plan that includes labor.
To keep your warranty valid, its crucial to follow maintenance guidelines outlined by the manufacturer. This usually involves regular professional servicing, such as annual tune-ups and timely replacement of filters. Keeping records of all maintenance work is also recommended.
If your HVAC system fails during the warranty period, contact your installer or a certified technician approved by the manufacturer promptly. They will assess whether the issue is covered under your warranty and guide you through any necessary repair or replacement processes.