A home warranty protects property owners by providing system replacement or repair services needed to handle regular deterioration. People searching for home warranty solutions must examine the variation between American Home Shield (AHS) and America’s first Choice Home Club (AFC) since these organizations stand among the top home warranty providers in the U.S.
This insight examines how their pricing models stack up against the coverage offerings they provide while examining their reputation through customer ratings.
American Home Shield : Overview
The American Home Shield Corporation operates as a leading American home warranty company with its headquarters located in Memphis, Tennessee. The company initiated operations in 1971 and ServiceMaster acquired ownership in 1989 until 2018, when Frontdoor, Inc. (NASDAQ: FTDR) established it as a separate entity.
American Home Shield operates as a home warranty company that cares for more than 2 million customers throughout 49 states and Washington D.C. and services their major appliances and systems under warranty contracts. Through its business model, the company works with independent contractor firms exceeding 16,000 and technicians surpassing 60,000 across the United States.
America's First Choice Home warranty
America’s First Choice Home Warranty began as an initiative of professionals dedicated to home protection plans who formed the company together. The company makes it its mission to deliver budget-friendly extended home warranties that guard homeowners from unexpected and expensive maintenance expenses. The company provides reliable coverage to its customers because it understands increasing repair costs and financial stress faced by households.
America’s 1st Choice Home Warranty maintains strict privacy standards by running a confidential privacy policy, which also makes them unique because customers need not provide personal information for obtaining a quote. Quality service combined with comprehensive coverage, affordable pricing and customer respect makes the company stand apart from competitors in the home warranty sector.
How to Choose the Right Home Warranty?
| Factor | Details |
| Check the Home Warranty Provider’s License | Verify if the company is licensed in your state through the state's department of insurance. If not required, check the company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation and customer reviews. |
| Determine Your Coverage Needs | Identify essential systems and appliances you want covered. Review plan exclusions and limitations before purchasing. |
| Compare Pricing and Service Fees | Home warranties have monthly/annual premiums and service fees per repair. Deductibles range from $50 to $125. Request quotes to compare costs. |
| Understand the Difference Between a Home Warranty and Home Insurance | Home warranties cover wear and tear, while home insurance covers disasters. Manufacturer warranties provide limited coverage for specific appliances. |
By considering these factors, you can select a home warranty that provides the best value and peace of mind for your home’s needs.
American Home Shield (AHS) Vs America’s First Choice Home Club (AFC)- Cost Comparison
| Feature | American Home Shield | America’s First Choice Home Club |
| Monthly Premium Cost | $29.99 - $69.99 | $32.08 - $55 |
| Average Combo Plan Cost | $60 | $55 |
| Annual Premium Cost | $359.88 - $839.88 | $330 - $550 |
| Service Call Fee | $75, $100, or $125 | $75, $100, or $125 |
| Discounts Available | Not specified | Discount for paying annually |
While both companies offer similar service call fee options, AHS generally has higher premium rates, making AFC the more budget-friendly choice for homeowners looking for cost-effective coverage.
American Home Shield (AHS) Vs America’s first Choice Home Club (AFC)- Plan Comparison
| Plan Type | American Home Shield | America’s first Choice Home Club |
| Available Plans | ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, ShieldPlatinum | Systems, Silver, Gold, Platinum |
| Covered Systems | 9 | 8 |
| Covered Appliances | 9 | 8 |
| Combo Plan Covered Items | 18 | 16 |
| Service Recall Period | 30 days | Up to 3 years |
| Availability | 47 states | 49 states |
AFC offers a significantly longer service recall period, ensuring repairs remain covered for the duration of the contract term. Additionally, AFC is available in more states than AHS.
American Home Shield (AHS) Vs America’s First Choice Home Club (AFC)—Appliance Coverage
| Appliance | American Home Shield | America’s First Choice Home Club |
| Built-in Microwaves | ✅ | ✅ |
| Clothes Dryers | ✅ | ✅ |
| Clothes Washers | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dishwashers | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ice Maker | ❌ | ✅ |
| Instant Hot/Cold Water Dispensers | ✅ | Add-on |
| Ranges, Ovens, Cooktops | ✅ | ✅ |
| Refrigerators | ✅ | ✅ |
| Trash Compactors | ❌ | ❌ |
| Whirlpool Bathtub | ✅ | ❌ |
AHS covers a few more items in its standard plans compared to AFC, but AFC offers optional add-ons for additional coverage.
Systems Coverage
| System | American Home Shield | America’s First Choice Home Club |
| Air Conditioning | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ceiling Fans | ✅ | ✅ |
| Central Vacuums | ❌ | ❌ |
| Doorbells | ✅ | ❌ |
| Ductwork | ✅ | ✅ |
| Electrical | ✅ | ✅ |
| Garbage Disposals | ✅ | ✅ |
| Garage Door Openers | ✅ | ✅ |
| Heating | ✅ | ✅ |
| Plumbing | ✅ | ✅ |
| Smoke Detectors | ❌ | ❌ |
| Water Heaters | ✅ | ✅ |
Both companies provide robust coverage for essential home systems, though AHS includes doorbells in its plans, while AFC does not.
Additional Coverage Options
| Feature | American Home Shield | America’s 1st Choice Home Club |
| Guest Unit | Add-on | ❌ |
| Pools | Add-on | Add-on |
| Roof Leak Repairs | ❌ | Add-on |
| Second Refrigerator | ❌ | ❌ |
| Septic Pump | Add-on | Add-on |
| Spas | Add-on | Add-on |
| Standalone Freezer | ❌ | Add-on |
| Well Pump | Add-on | ❌ |
AHS offers coverage for well pumps, while AFC provides roof leak repair and standalone freezer coverage as add-ons.
Which Home Warranty Is Right for You?
You are seeking an extensive plan that includes necessary systems and appliances and minimal accessory features. Your priority is an effortless claims process with many qualified service technicians available. You need both routine HVAC maintenance and an unlimited air conditioning refrigerant benefit.
Which is better, American Home Shield or Choice Home Warranty?
Can you use American Home Shield immediately?
What are the benefits of American Home Shield?
Does American Home Shield cover TVs?
Choose America’s 1st Choice Home Club when considering membership.
You need the opportunity to select your preferred repair technician along with a three-year extended service period rather than 30 days from AHS and plans that focus solely on appliance coverage.
The home warranty services from American Home Shield and America’s 1st Choice Home Club provide excellent value but each company suits different customer needs. The straightforward full package coverage of AHS makes this company an excellent selection. The preferences for flexibility along with extended warranty periods can lead you to select AFC instead of AHS.
Final Thoughts
A home warranty can be a lifesaver when major systems or appliances break down unexpectedly. Comparing AHS and AFC side by side reveals key differences in pricing, coverage, and service options. Whether you prioritize affordability, service flexibility, or comprehensive coverage, selecting the right home warranty will help ensure your home stays protected.
Choosing between American Home Shield (AHS) Vs America’s First Choice Home Club (AFC) depends on your priorities—whether it’s comprehensive coverage, flexible service options, or budget-friendly pricing.
Don’t wait for costly repairs! Get a free quote now and secure your peace of mind.
