Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan Pricing: What You Pay vs. What You Get
When you’re shopping for a home warranty, the Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan often stands out for its extensive coverage. But how much does it really cost, and does the value match the price tag? In this review, we dissect the pricing structure, compare coverage tiers, and examine what real users say, so you can decide if this plan fits your budget and home.
What Does the Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan Actually Cover?
The Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan is a comprehensive option that covers major systems and appliances. Unlike basic plans that split coverage into separate categories, this plan bundles them together. You get coverage for:
- Air conditioning and heating systems (including ductwork)
- Electrical systems (including panels and breakers)
- Plumbing systems (including water heaters and main lines)
- Refrigerators, ovens, ranges, cooktops, and dishwashers
- Washers, dryers, and garbage disposals
- Garage door openers and ceiling fans
- Built-in microwaves and instant hot/cold water dispensers
This plan also includes optional add-ons like pool and spa coverage, well pumps, and septic systems, which can be tacked on for an extra fee. However, note that roof leaks and some pre-existing conditions are excluded, so read the fine print.
For a full breakdown of every covered component, see our companion guide: Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan: Comprehensive Coverage Breakdown.
How Much Does the Platinum Plan Cost per Year?
Pricing for the Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan varies by your location and home size, but average annual premiums fall around $500 to $600 for the basic plan. That includes:
- Annual premium: $500–$600
- Service call fee: $75–$100 per visit (fixed, not percentage-based)
- Optional add-ons: $50–$150 per item per year (e.g., pool/spa or well pump)
The service call fee is a flat rate you pay each time a technician comes out, regardless of the repair cost. This makes it predictable but can add up if you have multiple claims. Most customers report paying around $75 per service visit, compared to $60–$80 from competitors.
Compared to other top-rated plans, the Platinum Plan is mid-range in price. For example, a similar comprehensive plan from American Home Shield may cost $550–$700 annually, while Choice Home Warranty’s total plan is around $550–$650. So the Platinum Plan sits competitively, especially given its broad coverage.
What’s the Real Value: Coverage vs. Cost Breakdown?
To understand the value, you need to look at what you’d pay out of pocket for major repairs vs. the warranty cost. Here’s a quick severity comparison table:
| Repair Type | Average Out-of-Pocket Cost | Typical Warranty Claim (Service Fee) | Severity Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator compressor failure | $300–$600 | $75–$100 | Often urgent if food spoiled, but can wait a day |
| Air conditioner fan motor replacement | $200–$400 | $75–$100 | Needs attention soon in hot weather |
| Water heater leak (standard) | $500–$800 | $75–$100 | Usually not urgent if small leak, but needs attention soon for larger issues |
| Electrical panel breaker replacement | $150–$300 | $75–$100 | Needs attention soon if lights flicker |
| Garbage disposal seizure | $150–$200 | $75–$100 | Usually not urgent, can schedule |
If you have multiple claims in a year, the savings stack quickly. For instance, a refrigerator repair and an AC repair could cost $500–$1,000 out-of-pocket, but with the Platinum Plan, you’d pay only $150–$200 in service fees plus the annual premium. That’s a net saving of $300–$800 in the first year for typical households.
But remember: the warranty won’t cover pre-existing conditions or wear-and-tear beyond normal use. So if your appliances are older, you may still face denials. Always inspect your home’s equipment before buying.
How Does the Platinum Plan Compare to Other Select Home Warranty Plans?
Select Home Warranty offers three tiers: the Basic Plan, the Gold Plan, and the Platinum Plan. The Platinum Plan is the most comprehensive. Key differences:
- Basic Plan: Covers only major systems (AC, heating, electrical, plumbing). No appliances. Price ~$350–$400/year.
- Gold Plan: Covers systems plus a few appliances (refrigerator, oven, dishwasher). Price ~$450–$500/year.
- Platinum Plan: Covers all systems and all major appliances plus extras like washers/dryers and garage door openers. Price ~$500–$600/year.
For most homeowners with multiple appliances, the Platinum Plan is the sweet spot. The extra $100–$200 per year over the Gold Plan covers laundry and garage items, which alone can cost $200–$400 to repair. So the value is clear if you have those items.
To decide which tier fits you, read our general guide: How to Choose the Best Home Warranty: A Step-by-Step Buying Guide.
Are There Hidden Fees or Exclusions in the Platinum Plan?
Yes, and this is crucial. The Platinum Plan has several limitations that affect the real cost:
- Service call fee: You pay $75–$100 every time a technician visits, even if the repair is small. Multiply that by multiple claims.
- Pre-existing conditions: Not covered. If your AC had a known issue before the policy effective date, expect denial.
- Wear-and-tear limits: Coverage only applies to “normal wear and tear” but not “improper installation” or “manufacturer defects” after 30 days of ownership.
- Coverage caps: Each item has a per-occurrence limit (usually $1,500–$3,000 for major systems). For extensive repairs like a full HVAC replacement, you’ll pay the difference.
- Exclusions: Roof leaks, cosmetic damage, code violations, and damage from pests or natural disasters are not covered.
Check your contract carefully before signing. The fine print can turn a $500 repair into a $1,500 out-of-pocket expense if the cap is hit.
What Do Homeowners Actually Say About the Pricing?
Real feedback from owners reveals mixed but largely positive sentiments about the Platinum Plan’s value. Here are two common observations:
- “We had a major refrigerator failure a month after signing up. The service fee was only $75, and the repair was covered completely. We saved over $400. The annual premium felt high upfront, but with two claims in year one, it paid for itself.” – Sarah T., Austin, TX
- “The plan is decent for appliances, but the limits caught me off guard. My water heater needed replacement (cost $1,200), and the warranty covered only up to $1,500 minus the service fee. That’s fine, but if it had been an AC compressor, I’d be over the cap. Do the math on your home’s age.” – Mark R., Columbus, OH
On forums like Reddit and Trustpilot, many users praise the Platinum Plan for its breadth, but some grumble about the claims process and delays. For a closer look at how to file and get paid, see our guide: Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan Claim Filing Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the average monthly cost for the Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan?
The annual premium is $500–$600, which works out to $42–$50 per month. Plus, you pay a service call fee of $75–$100 per visit. Optional add-ons raise the monthly cost by $4–$12 each.
2. Can I pay the Platinum Plan monthly instead of yearly?
Yes, Select Home Warranty offers monthly payment options, but they may include a small convenience fee (typically $3–$5 per month). Check your contract for exact terms.
3. Does the Platinum Plan cover roof leaks or structural damage?
No. Roof leaks and structural issues are explicitly excluded. For that, you’d need a separate home insurance policy or a specialty add-on if available in your state.
4. What happens if a covered item is beyond repair? Do they replace it?
If the item cannot be repaired, Select Home Warranty will provide a cash payout up to the coverage limit (typically $1,500–$3,000 per occurrence). You can then choose to buy a new unit yourself. The service fee still applies.
5. Are there any age restrictions on appliances for the Platinum Plan?
No, there is no specific age limit, but pre-existing conditions are not covered. Appliances that are old and worn may be denied if the technician determines the failure is due to age-related wear beyond normal use.
6. How do I file a claim under the Platinum Plan?
You can submit a claim online through your portal or call the customer service line. After approval, a local contractor will contact you within 48 hours to schedule a visit. Remember: you must pay the service fee directly to the technician.
