HVAC Service Contracts vs. Maintenance Contracts
Today begins our two part series on HVAC service contracts vs. HVAC maintenance contracts. There is a lot of confusion between the two, and over the course of the next two posts, we will guide you through the ins and outs of each in order to help you make an informed decision on which to choose.
Part One: What is an HVAC service contract?
An HVAC service contract is an agreement between you and your chosen HVAC contractor wherein you agree to pay a monthly or yearly fee in return for a certain set of clearly defined services that you may or may not need. In other words, you are paying for covering potential problems that may occur during the contract period. Prices for these contacts will vary greatly, depending on the company you choose.
Many service contacts include the following services:
- Tune-ups: Up to two tune ups/cleanings per year of your air conditioning and heating system, if needed. These are usually performed before winter and during spring.
- Parts replacement: Some low-cost consumables such as fittings, filters, contacts and capacitors are covered by most HVAC service contracts, and some very costly contracts will include all replacement parts. Keep in mind that nothing is free, and you are paying for all those parts that you may or may not need with a high-priced contract.
- Priority Service: You will be placed higher in the service queue than non-paying customers.
It is important before you sign any HVAC service contract that you thoroughly understand the terms and what services are included. You may find that you are paying a large sum of money for what amounts to very little in guaranteed parts and services.
An honest and reliable HVAC contractor will take the time to discuss the contract’s terms with you and help you decide whether a service contract is right for your home or business.
