HVAC Service Agreement
What You Need To Know!
All HVAC systems require periodic maintenance. A clean hvac unit operates
more efficiently and saves you money on your utility bills. Doing it yourself can
take a lot of time and effort. If you do not have the time to perform the
maintenance or do not have the ability, a plan is just what you need.
These service agreements can be called- hvac maintenance contracts,
service agreements, and comfort plans.
But, they are all essentially the same thing. Generally they will neglect to use
the word “contract”, but that is what they are.
A win-win solution?
These contracts have two main functions. For the hvac dealer, they produce
income during the off season. In the hvac maintenance field, business slows
down in the Fall and Spring. During these times, the dealer still has the same
business expenses but typically lower income. By offering service contracts,
the dealer can increase their income during the slow season.
The other purpose is to guarantee that preventive maintenance is performed
on the equipment. A clean hvac unit has minimum repair calls compared one
that is not maintained. Manufacturers require a minimum amount of service to
their systems. This guarantees that the parts last as long as possible, and that
saves them money.
Type of Plans…
HVAC service agreements customarily start with a basic plan. This typically
contains an ac unit checkup and a furnace checkup. These generally only
cover the labor costs associated with performing the service. Any worn parts
or consumables (such as the air filter) are usually extra.
The next level of coverage typically includes the checkups. There is no charge
for repair parts during the checks, and priority service. During a heatwave or
major cold snap, hvac service companies get swamped and majority cannot
keep up with the amount of repair calls. The “priority service” is like a
guarantee, in a way, that they will get to you on the same day that you call for
service.
Ordinarily, the highest level of contract includes the checkups, no charge
emergency service, and priority service. This is beneficial for those that want
to budget and know that they will not have any unexpected expenses.
As the plan level goes up the price goes up. The basic plans typically cost
about $200 and the highest level can be $300 to $500 annually.
Would You Benefit From A Plan?
Step One: Determine how much of the routine maintenance you are willing to
do yourself.
Step Two: Take a look at your expected repair costs. Is the unit older and no
longer under warranty? Have you had a lot of repair bills in the past? If you
answer yes to both of those questions, then ask yourself how much you can
spend.
Step Three: Make a decision, as a result of examining these aspects, you will
be informed and make better decisions about whether hvac service
agreements are right for you and your home.