From fire damage or lightning strikes to stolen appliances, here's a look at how different types of homeowners insurance coverage may help protect appliances.

Fire

Homeowners insurance generally helps cover losses caused by fires. Dwelling coverage may help pay to repair or replace a built-in appliance, like a furnace or central air conditioning unit. Personal property coverage typically helps pay to repair or replace the items inside your house, such as some appliances that are not built in, but simply plug into electrical outlets, if they are damaged or destroyed in a fire.

Lightning strikes

If lightning strikes your home and causes a power surge, the personal property coverage in a homeowners insurance policy may help pay to repair or replace damaged home appliances, such as a TV or refrigerator. Dwelling coverage may offer similar protection to built-in mechanical devices, such as furnaces and water heaters.

Theft of home appliances

Theft is another risk that is generally covered by homeowners insurance. If someone breaks into your home and steals belongings, including appliances that are not built in, the personal property coverage in a homeowners insurance policy will typically help cover the loss. But if someone makes off with a built-in appliance, dwelling coverage may help pay for the loss.