HVAC maintenance keeps your air conditioner, furnace, heat pump, and HVAC components running efficiently and protects them from unexpected breakdowns.
“The importance of maintenance may vary a little depending on where you are in the United States, but semi-annual maintenance is the basics,” says Joey Dooley, general manager of ARS, a national HVAC repair and installation company.
HVAC maintenance may be one of the most important tasks you undertake as a homeowner. HVAC experts comment on regular HVAC tune-ups.
Quick conclusion: Are HVAC maintenance plans worth it?
An HVAC maintenance plan is definitely worth it. These 1-hour quick tune-ups will check each of your HVAC components and fix any minor issues that arise. That way, you can avoid the headache of your AC unit or furnace breaking down when you need it most.
HVAC maintenance plan:
- Leads to reduced energy costs Because it allows the system to run most efficiently
- Fewer complete failures Small problems can be detected early
- Extend the life of your system Because the system is properly lubricated and repaired after several seasons of heavy use
- Protect your HVAC warranty This is because many manufacturers require regular maintenance in order to claim a warranty.
- can improve air qualityEspecially when a technician cleans the ducts
- improve home safety HVAC technician to test for gas leaks and carbon monoxide
Maintenance plans are especially suitable for busy homeowners because the home is managed on an automated schedule.
“Planning and maintenance is especially helpful for homeowners who may neglect routine servicing,” says Steve Wade, senior director of operations and procurement at ARS.
What is an HVAC maintenance plan?
An HVAC maintenance plan is a service contract with your local heating and cooling company. This plan includes semi-annual HVAC tune-ups to keep your HVAC system running smoothly year-round, for a monthly or yearly fee.
You can expect cleaning, safety checks, and performance optimization with every visit. HVAC maintenance plans may also come with additional benefits such as preferred schedules, repair/equipment discounts, and warranty protection.
What is typically included in an HVAC maintenance plan?
According to ARS, an HVAC maintenance plan that includes a full tune-up includes:
- Refrigerant level and pressure measurement
- Thermostat calibration
- Inspect all electrical connections, contacts, capacitors and relays
- Evaporator coil inspection
- Drain inspection
- Cleaning and inspection of condenser coils
- Outdoor wire breakage inspection
- Condenser fan motor, blade, and lubricant testing
- Compressor amplifier at startup
- Adjust the blower motor if necessary
- Safety and efficiency performance analysis
- Replacing the air filter (or recommending a suitable filter for your system)
Common add-ons or benefits
In addition to regular maintenance, these annual plans often also include benefits such as:
- Repair discount: Save up to 20% on repairs and equipment with an annual plan.
- Priority air conditioning service: When repairs are needed, HVAC maintenance plan members often have priority scheduling, so you don’t have to wait days for service during heat waves or freezes.
- Exempted or reduced: Each time you visit HVAC service, you often have to pay service call fees and repair costs. If you have a maintenance plan, these fees may be waived or reduced.
- Warranty protection: Regular HVAC maintenance is usually required to qualify for warranty.
How much does an HVAC maintenance plan cost?
The annual cost of most HVAC maintenance plans is Between $100 and $250. This includes bi-annual HVAC maintenance and other benefits depending on your provider.
Some HVAC companies offer higher-end plans that include premium benefits like 20% off repairs and waived diagnostic fees. These plans can cost up to $500 or more per year.
Costs and Benefits: Do HVAC plans actually save you money?
HVAC maintenance plans can save you money, especially when you use all the benefits. HVAC tune-ups can cost anywhere from $70 to $250 each, so you’ll already be saving money on regular maintenance just by signing up.
If you need more than seasonal HVAC maintenance, you can save even more with discounts of 10% to 20%. For example, if you need a new AC system and it costs $5,000 to install a new unit, your savings could be more than $500.
What to look out for in a proper HVAC maintenance plan
A good HVAC maintenance plan will include at least two HVAC adjustments and an additional add-on. Look for a plan with at least a discount and a preferred schedule.
Priority scheduling can save lives, but it’s a service you may not appreciate until you’re in a crisis.
“If a customer makes a call that they need and they’re struggling with a broken system, let’s say it’s 105 degrees outside, you need someone right now,” says Josh Condor, divisional operations manager for ARS Central Division.
A worthwhile HVAC maintenance plan should include:
- Cleaning, optimization and inspection of air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps
- Filter checks and recommendations
- Auto-scheduling to make plans easy to use
- Priority schedule to get to the front of the service line
- Parts and labor discounts
Expert Insight: Do HVAC experts recommend them?
HVAC experts recommend regular HVAC maintenance At least twice a year. These checks keep your system running smoothly and provide clear benefits. HVAC warranty claims often require maintenance, making them even more important. By paying a few hundred dollars upfront, you can save thousands of dollars in emergency repair costs.
“Almost every manufacturer recommends it,” Dooley says. “And many of them effectively require maintenance to protect the warranty.” Even if the failure is covered by the warranty, failure to maintain proper maintenance records can result in your claim being denied.
