Industrial Automation Warranty Guide

When you buy industrial automation equipment, the warranty plays a critical role. It protects your investment, lowers your risk, and keeps your project on track. But many warranties hide unclear terms, vague language, and exceptions that can cost you later. You need to understand what the warranty covers, what actions void it, and when the coverage begins. If you plan to use refurbished components, you face even more questions.

In this article, we cut through the confusion. You’ll learn what to check, what to question, and how to avoid getting stuck with unexpected costs.

What Is a Warranty in Industrial Automation?

Definition and Purpose:

A warranty is the supplier’s written promise that the product will perform as expected for a specific period. If something breaks because of a manufacturing or design issue, the supplier is responsible for the repair or replacement. In short, the warranty gives you peace of mind. It protects you from hidden defects or early failures that aren’t your fault.

Warranty vs. Service Contract:

A warranty is not the same as a service contract. The warranty is usually included in the purchase price. A service contract is optional and paid separately. It often covers wear and tear, preventive maintenance, and support beyond the warranty period. Think of the warranty as a safety net and the service contract as extra support.

What’s Covered and What’s Not:

Covered: factory defects, internal component failures, software bugs.
Not covered: damage caused by incorrect use, incompatible materials, or poor installation.

For example, if your 3D printer’s pump fails because of faulty wiring, that’s covered. If it fails because you injected clay into it, that’s not.

What’s Covered	What’s Not Covered
Factory defects Internal component failures Software bugs	Damage from incorrect use Incompatible materials Poor installation

What’s Covered

What’s Not Covered

- Factory defects
- Internal component failures
- Software bugs

- Damage from incorrect use
- Incompatible materials
- Poor installation

The Top 5 Warranty Clauses You Must Understand:

1. When Does the Warranty Start?

This can vary. Some suppliers start the warranty from the shipping date, others from the day of delivery or installation. Always double-check this. You don’t want the warranty clock ticking before your system is even up and running.

2. What Voids the Warranty?

Using the equipment in a way it wasn’t designed for can void your warranty. So can modifying the setup, using third-party components, or running materials that aren’t approved. Always ask what’s allowed and what’s not before experimenting.

3. What is Covered?

Don’t assume everything is included. Some warranties cover only parts. Others include labor, shipping, or remote support. Make sure it’s clear what happens if something breaks and who pays for what.

4. Duration of Coverage?

Most standard warranties last 12 months. Some suppliers offer extended warranties at an extra cost. This can be worth it, especially for high-value or refurbished components.

5. Support Response Time?

If something goes wrong, can you get help quickly? Some suppliers offer fast response times for free, others charge extra. Ask how support works and if you’ll get help remotely or on-site.

Common Misconceptions About Warranties:

Used Robots Don’t Have Warranties:

That’s not always true. Many used or refurbished robots come with a warranty, especially if they’ve been restored by the original manufacturer. For example, ABB offers a one-year warranty on refurbished robot arms, just like with new ones. The key is to ask who did the refurbishing and what checks were done. Always request a test report or inspection sheet.

Any Damage is Covered:

A warranty only covers factory defects or internal failures that are not your fault. If you run the wrong material, skip maintenance, or modify the system without approval, you risk voiding the warranty. For instance, using clay or metal in a printer designed for cement can cause damage that won’t be covered. Ask for a list of compatible materials or usage limits.

Warranty Starts When I Pay:

Not necessarily. Most warranties start when the equipment is delivered or installed, not when you sign the quote or make a down payment. This is especially important for long lead time projects. Always confirm the official start date in writing to avoid surprises later if something breaks before the system is even operational.

How Warranty Terms Affect Your Bottom Line:

Cost of Unplanned Downtime:

If your equipment fails and you’re not covered, the financial impact can be serious. A broken robot arm or faulty control system can pause your entire operation. Even in non-production settings, like research or education, delays cost time, shift timelines, and frustrate your team. With a good warranty, you avoid long repair negotiations and get back on track faster.

Cost of Replacement vs. Repair Under Warranty:

Without warranty coverage, you’re paying for everything out of pocket. That includes spare parts, technician hours, travel fees, and shipping. But with a solid warranty, most of these costs are absorbed by the supplier. This difference can add up quickly—especially on high-end components like robot arms, sensors, or controllers.

The Hidden Value of an Extended Warranty:

An extended warranty might feel like an unnecessary expense up front, but it can save you thousands down the line. If you’re running equipment in a high-use or remote environment, it’s worth considering. The added time also buys peace of mind. It means less budget planning for unexpected repairs and more time focusing on your process instead of problems.

How to Evaluate and Compare Warranty Terms From Different Suppliers:

Look Beyond the Buzzwords:

Don’t settle for vague terms like “standard warranty.” That can mean anything. One supplier’s “standard” might cover only parts, while another includes on-site service. Always ask for a breakdown of what’s actually included.

Ask for Warranty Documentation Upfront:

Before you sign anything, ask for the full warranty terms in writing. This should clearly state what’s covered, what voids the warranty, how long it lasts, and how to request support. If a supplier can’t provide this, that’s a red flag.

Use a Side-by-Side Comparison Table:

The easiest way to compare warranties is by putting the key details side by side. Here’s a simple format:

Supplier	Duration	Parts	Labor	Travel	Start Date	Exclusions
Supplier A	12 months	Yes	No	No	Delivery	Third-party parts
Supplier B	24 months	Yes	Yes	Yes	Installation	Improper use

Consider the Supplier’s Support History:

A generous warranty means little if the supplier is slow to respond. Ask about their support process. How fast do they answer? Is help remote or on-site? Feedback from other buyers can reveal a lot about what you can really expect.

Qviro Tip: Avoid Surprises by Asking These Warranty Questions Early

What Usage Scenarios Will Void the Warranty:

Always ask which actions or materials could void the warranty. If you’re planning to test new applications or experimental materials, confirm what’s allowed. Don’t assume you’re covered—get it in writing.

Are Refurbished Components Treated Differently:

Refurbished doesn’t always mean less coverage. Some manufacturers offer the same warranty on refurbished parts as on new ones. Still, double-check this with each supplier and ask for testing reports if available.

Is Warranty Service Remote or On-Site:

If something breaks, how is the support delivered? Can they troubleshoot remotely, or will they send a technician? Will you be charged for travel? The answers affect both cost and downtime.

Can You Get a Written Copy of the Warranty Terms Before Signing:

You should never agree to anything based on a phone call or vague promise. Request the full warranty document before you approve the quote. That’s the only way to compare fairly and protect yourself.

When and Why to Consider Extended Warranty Options:

What It Costs vs. What It Could Save:

An extended warranty is usually offered at an extra cost. Depending on the equipment, this could range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It might seem like a big add-on, but if something major breaks outside the standard coverage, the repair bill could be even bigger. It’s a simple risk calculation.

Situations Where It’s Worth It:

Extended warranties make the most sense when your equipment will be used intensively, is hard to reach, or plays a critical role in your process. If you’re located far from the supplier, or downtime is expensive, the extra coverage helps avoid last-minute stress and unexpected costs.

Example: When It Made Sense to Skip It

In a recent research project, the buyer chose not to extend the warranty. The robot system would be used occasionally, and downtime wouldn’t affect production. Since the standard warranty already covered one year, they decided the extra cost wasn’t necessary. In your case, the right call depends on how often you’ll use the system, how easy it is to get support, and how much risk you’re willing to take.

Conclusion:

Warranty is not just paperwork. It’s risk management. It protects your investment, reduces downtime, and helps you avoid unexpected costs. But only if you understand the terms. Make sure every stakeholder involved—engineers, purchasers, and finance—knows what the warranty actually covers. Don’t rely on assumptions or vague promises. Get everything in writing and compare terms carefully. Platforms like Qviro Match make this easier by helping you compare warranty details across suppliers in one place. That way, you can move forward with confidence, knowing you’re getting the protection you need without overpaying or missing key details.

23
Apr