K&A DNA Synthesizer Warranty
This article explains the limited warranty coverage for K&A brand DNA Synthesizers manufactured and/or distributed by Sierra Biosystems. It outlines what is covered, what is excluded, user responsibilities, and how to obtain warranty service
Quick Warranty Summary
-
Warranty period: 1 year
-
Warranty start: Date of installation by a K&A- or Sierra Biosystems–certified installer
-
Coverage: Defects in electronics, materials, and workmanship
-
Not covered: Valves, consumables, cosmetic damage, misuse, improper maintenance
-
Costs: Parts, labor, and shipping covered unless customer fault is determined
-
Availability: International
-
Extensions: Optional warranty extensions may be purchased separately
What Products Are Covered?
This warranty applies to K&A DNA Synthesizer instruments (the “Instrument”).
Components Not Covered
The following components are excluded from warranty coverage:
-
Compressor
-
Computer
-
Monitor
Who Is Covered?
The warranty applies to users of the Instrument, regardless of whether they are the original purchaser, provided the Instrument is installed and maintained according to Sierra Biosystems requirements.
When Does the Warranty Start and End?
-
The warranty lasts one (1) year.
-
Coverage begins on the date of installation, as long as installation is performed by a certified K&A or Sierra Biosystems installer.
-
No proof of purchase is required.
What Is Covered Under Warranty?
During the warranty period, Sierra Biosystems covers:
-
Defects in electronics, materials, and workmanship
-
All required parts, labor, shipping, diagnostics, customs, and insurance for valid warranty claims
What Is Not Covered?
The warranty does not cover:
-
Bottle caps and other consumables
-
Normal wear and tear
-
Cosmetic issues (scratches, discoloration, finish changes)
-
Damage caused by misuse, abuse, modification, improper storage, or environmental exposure
-
Damage from unauthorized service or repair
-
Failures caused by improper maintenance or operation
Included Spare Parts
Instruments are shipped with a limited set of spare consumable parts (such as valves, seals, or bottle caps). These spare parts are provided to support routine maintenance and help users operate the instrument reliably during the warranty period.
The inclusion of spare parts does not indicate that consumables are covered under warranty or that additional replacements will be provided beyond what is initially supplied, unless otherwise stated.
User Responsibilities (Required Maintenance)
To keep the warranty valid, users must:
-
Regularly drain water from the compressor
-
Ensure the compressor contains sufficient oil
-
Avoid leaving amidites or reagents in lines where crystallization may occur
-
Perform routine flow tests (recommended)
-
Make reasonable attempts to resolve minor issues (such as replacing valves or bottle caps) using resources available in the Sierra Biosystems Support Center
Failure to follow these requirements may void warranty coverage.
Software, Data, and Research Use
-
Software provided with the Instrument is supplied “as is”, unless otherwise stated
-
Sierra Biosystems is not responsible for:
-
Data loss or corruption
-
Sequence design errors
-
Experimental or research outcomes.
-
Environmental and Facility Requirements
Warranty coverage does not apply to damage caused by:
-
Improper electrical supply or grounding
-
Inadequate ventilation
-
Operation outside specified temperature or humidity ranges
-
Contaminated air, liquids, or reagents
How Do I Request Warranty Service?
To initiate a warranty claim:
-
Email support@sierrabio.com, or
-
Contact an authorized Sierra Biosystems or K&A service agent
Our support team will guide you through next steps.
How Long Does Warranty Service Take?
Sierra Biosystems makes reasonable efforts to complete warranty service within two (2) weeks, when possible. Timing may vary depending on location, parts availability, and issue complexity.
International Coverage
This warranty applies internationally, subject to local laws, logistical constraints, and service availability.
Replacement Parts and Repairs
-
Replacement parts or instruments may be new or refurbished and will be functionally equivalent
-
Repairs or replacements do not extend or restart the original warranty period
Warranty Extensions
Some users may purchase a Warranty Extension to extend coverage beyond the initial one-year warranty.
Please note:
-
Warranty extensions are purchased separately
-
Extensions apply only to the specific Instrument purchased
-
Extensions extend the duration, not the scope, of coverage unless explicitly stated in the extension agreement
Legal Notes
To the extent permitted by law:
-
Any implied warranties (including merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose) are limited to the duration of the express warranty
-
Sierra Biosystems is not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, except where prohibited by law
This article summarizes the official warranty terms. Sierra Biosystems reserves the right to update warranty terms for future products.