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Can AHS Video Chat Help with That? Troubleshooting You Can Do from Home
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Home Warranty 101
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5 minutes

Can AHS Video Call Help with That? Troubleshooting You Can Do from Home

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AHS Home Team
June 11, 2025

We’ve all been there—something around the house isn’t working quite right, but calling in a Pro feels like overkill. Still, it’s just frustrating enough to throw off your day. You already know American Home Shield® has your back when big or small breakdowns happen.

Technician on video call

Introducing American Home Shield video call, now available through the AHS app. As a benefit with select American Home Shield plans, you can now video call with an Technician in real time to troubleshoot issues, answer homeownership questions, and help you get things back on track—without waiting for a service visit. 


But how exactly does it work, and more importantly, how can you make the most of it? Make sure you’ve downloaded the American Home Shield app, and let’s dive in.

The benefits of video call

AHS repair Technicians have an average of 20 years experience across HVAC, plumbing, electrical, appliance, and general repair services. With real-time help from a knowledgeable repair Technician via AHS video call, you can troubleshoot home hassles on the spot, and potentially save the cost of a service visit.


Here’s why video call is a game-changer for homeowners:

1

Real-time Technician help, right when you need it

Get connected to a live repair Technician, who can help you assess or fix your home hassles in real time, at no additional cost.

2

No service fee required

If your issue can be resolved over video call, you won’t need to request (or pay for) an in-home service call.

3

Reliable support

Video call Technicians have the know-how to provide the personalized help you need.

4

Troubleshoot with confidence

Not sure if your issue requires a repair? AHS video call lets you talk to a Technician who can assess the situation and help you decide what to do next.

When to use video call for troubleshooting

Not every home hiccup needs a hands-on repair. Video call is perfect for diagnosing minor issues, quick troubleshooting, and getting visual guidance on covered items. If your home system or appliance isn’t working quite right, but you’re unsure whether it’s a big deal, a quick call with a technician can help.

Some great use cases for video call include:

If the issue is complex, involves safety concerns, or requires specialized tools, an in-home service request is the way to go. But for everything else? Video call can be a fast, convenient way to get back on track.

Real problems, real video call solutions

Homeownership comes with its fair share of surprises, but some of them are easier to handle than you might think. Here’s how real homeowners have used American Home Shield video call to troubleshoot common issues.

When you’ve had enough of your haywire HVAC

ac unit outside

AC unit blowing warm air instead of cold? Sometimes, it’s as simple as checking your thermostat settings or replacing a clogged filter. A repair Technician can help you assess the issue over video call, and let you know if in-person help is needed.


Emergency heat won’t turn off? If your system keeps defaulting to emergency heat, it could be a thermostat issue or something that needs a quick adjustment—both things an Technician can walk you through.

Drips, drops, and plumbing problems

technician fixing plumbing under sink

Leaky faucet? A loose washer or improper seal might be to blame. Video call can help you determine if it’s a DIY fix or if you need a plumber.

Water pressure acting up? An Technician can guide you through checking for blockages or adjusting a valve before you call for a service request.

Power problems, solved

technician inspecting breaker box

Breaker keeps tripping? It could be an overloaded circuit or a faulty appliance. A video call Technician can help you troubleshoot safely.


Outlet suddenly not working? Sometimes, it’s a simple fix like a tripped GFCI outlet. A video call session can help you assess the issue.

Keeping your kitchen and laundry running smoothly

top down view of dishwasher

Ice maker on strike? Before assuming the worst, an Technician can help you check for a frozen water line or reset the system.


Dishwasher not draining? A clogged filter or drain hose might be the culprit. An Technician can help you troubleshoot in real time.

How to use video call

Getting technician help for home troubleshooting is easier than ever with American Home Shield video call. After you download the app, members with select plans get the benefit of video calling live repair Technicians at no extra cost.

1

Start a new request.

Start a new request from the “Service” tab of the AHS app. Tap “Video Call Now” when prompted.

2

You will be connected with a live Technician.

The Technician will introduce themselves.

3

Your Technician will assess or even help you fix the issue on the spot.

Show the Technician the problem, follow their guidance, and get real-time help assessing or even fixing the issue.

4

Seamlessly request in-person service if you need it.

If your covered item can’t be fixed over video call, you can make a service request for an in-person Pro (for the cost of your service fee).

Pro tips for the best video call experience:

On the ball for your video call.

Download our free Video Call Prep Checklist so you can feel prepared for your call.

Download checklist

When to call for a service visit

AHS video call can solve a lot, but some problems require a hands-on repair. If your Technician determines that the issue needs in-person attention, they’ll guide you on the next steps to schedule a service visit. These are some situations where a service call is best:

Peace of mind, right at your fingertips

With AHS video call, getting Technician troubleshooting help is faster and easier than ever. Whether it’s a dishwasher that won’t drain, a circuit breaker that keeps tripping, or an ice maker on the fritz, video call can help you quickly assess or fix common home issues without waiting for a service visit. 

And when a repair does require hands-on expertise? That’s where your American Home Shield home warranty plan has your back, covering parts of up to 27 major home systems and appliances, no matter their age.

Being a homeowner means dealing with the unexpected, but with American Home Shield, you don’t have to do it alone. Download the American Home Shield app to easily request service, connect with an Technician, and manage your coverage, all in one convenient place.

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AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.

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