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Comparing warranties for longarm quilting machines
Would a warranty by any other name give us as much peace of mind? (Apologies to Shakespeare and roses everywhere!)
If your dream is to own a longarm quilting machine, you’ve probably started comparing the features of different machines. That should include reading about and comparing warranties. A longarm quilting machine is a big investment and you want a company that will support you long-term.
When looking at longarm warranties, you should be considering what’s covered, for how long and what your responsibilities are as an owner. In addition, make sure you understand what support the company provides to help you maintain your longarm and ensure it’s in tip-top shape.
What’s covered
A longarm consists of the machine itself (the head), the table or frame and the electronics. Under a warranty, each of these pieces is typically covered separately.
Make sure you understand the following things:
- Is the warranty for parts only, or does it include labor?
- Can you replace the part yourself, or must you wait and pay for their technician?
- Does it include the cost of shipping the part to you, or shipping the machine to/from the factory?
Some manufacturers might have restrictions. For example, several manufacturers invalidate the electronics warranty if the machine is left plugged in when not in use or if you make any repairs or adjustments yourself.
APQS’ limited lifetime warranty does not have any of these restrictions.
How long is it covered?
Next, you’ll want to dig into the length of the warranty coverage.
Is the warranty good for 90 days, a few years or a lifetime? Many manufacturers will tout their Limited Lifetime Warranty, but this might only extend to the steel-framed table!
APQS’ limited lifetime warranty covers the machine head, table AND ELECTRONICS along with covering BOTH parts and labor. How can APQS do this? APQS machines are engineered to sew all day long with minimal, easy-to-perform maintenance. They are built to last.
Your responsibilities (what’s not covered)
In addition to understanding what the manufacturer covers in the warranty, it’s important to fully understand what your responsibilities will be as an owner. As part of APQS’ warranty, these are the things that are not covered:
- Normal Wear and Tear – Needles and thread guides, just like the brake pads on your car, will wear out and need to be replaced. You are responsible for daily use items.
- Abuse, Neglect, Accidents, etc – Your longarm is valuable, and it’s up to you to take care of it. Keep it clean, dry, oiled and plugged into a surge protector or Uninterrupted Power Supply (especially if you have Quilt Path).
- Note that any 3rd party add-ons are typically covered by the 3rd party manufacturer (such as hydraulic lift or Quilt Path).
What support is available?
APQS Customer Service team is renowned for its top-notch service. They’re available to help you diagnose problems and make any needed repairs, whether your machine is under warranty or not. Call them at 800-426-7233, email them at service@apqs.com or fill out this online form.
In addition, APQS has created many service articles and videos that can often provide you with answers to your support-related questions. Check them out here.
When you buy a quilting machine, you want to be able to focus on doing what you love: quilting. A warranty helps ensure this will happen. If you’re already an APQS Owner, rest easy knowing that your machine is built to last and there is a team ready to support you throughout your quilting journey!
