HVAC maintenance keeps your air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps and HVAC components running efficiently and protects against unexpected breakdowns.
“The importance of maintenance may change a little depending on where you are in the U.S., but biannual maintenance is the baseline,” says Joey Dooley, a general manager at ARS, a national HVAC repair and installation company.
HVAC maintenance may be one of the most important tasks you take on as a homeowner. Here’s what HVAC experts have to say about regular HVAC tune-ups.
Quick Verdict: Are HVAC Maintenance Plans Worth It?
HVAC maintenance plans are absolutely worth it. These quick one-hour tune-ups check each of your HVAC components and fix minor issues as they come up. That way, you avoid the headache of an AC unit or furnace that breaks down when you need it most.
HVAC maintenance plans:
- Lead to lower energy costs because they allow your systems to run most efficiently
- Result in fewer full breakdowns since small problems can be identified early
- Extend your system’s lifespan because systems are properly lubricated and repaired after seasons of heavy use
- Protect your HVAC warranty because many manufacturers require regular maintenance for warranty claims
- Can improve air quality, especially if your technician cleans your ducts
- Improve your home’s safety because HVAC techs will test for gas leaks and carbon monoxide
Maintenance plans are particularly good for busy homeowners because homes are put on an automated schedule.
“Plans and maintenance are especially helpful for homeowners who might otherwise neglect regular service,” says Steve Wade, a senior director of operations and procurement at ARS.
What Is an HVAC Maintenance Plan?
An HVAC maintenance plan is a service agreement with a local heating and cooling company. For a monthly or annual fee, this plan includes biannual HVAC tune-ups that keep your HVAC system running smoothly year-round.
At each visit, you can expect cleaning, safety checks and performance optimization. HVAC maintenance plans may also come with added perks, like priority scheduling, discounts on repairs and equipment, and warranty protection.
What’s Typically Included in an HVAC Maintenance Plan
According to ARS, HVAC maintenance plans that include full tune-ups cover:
- Refrigerant levels and pressure measurements
- Thermostat calibration
- Inspection of all electrical connections, contacts, capacitors and relays
- Evaporator coil inspection
- Condensate drain inspection
- Condenser coil cleaning and inspection
- Outdoor disconnect inspection
- Tests of the condenser fan motor, blades and lubricants
- Compressor amps at startup
- Blower motor adjustment, if needed
- Analysis of safety and efficiency performance
- Air filter change or recommendation for the right filter for your system
Common Add-Ons and Perks
In addition to regular maintenance, these annual plans often come with extra benefits:
- Discounts on repairs: You could get up to 20% off repairs and equipment through an annual plan.
- Priority HVAC service: Plan members often get priority scheduling, meaning you won’t have to wait days for service during a heatwave or hard freeze.
- Waived or reduced fees: Service call fees may be waived or reduced for plan members.
- Warranty protection: Many manufacturers require regular maintenance records for warranty coverage.
How Much Do HVAC Maintenance Plans Cost?
Most HVAC maintenance plans have an annual cost of between $100 and $250. This covers two tune-ups per year plus other benefits depending on your provider.
Some companies offer high-tier plans that include premium benefits, like 20% off repairs and waived diagnostic fees. These plans can cost up to $500 or more per year.
Cost vs. Benefit: Do HVAC Plans Actually Save Money?
HVAC maintenance plans can save you money, especially if you use all the perks. One HVAC tune-up costs between $70 and $250, so you’re already saving money on regular maintenance just by signing up.
If you end up needing more than seasonal maintenance, the 10% to 20% repair discounts can add up fast. For example, if you need a new AC system, savings could reach $500 or more on a unit that costs $5,000 to install.
What to Look for in a Good HVAC Maintenance Plan
A good HVAC maintenance plan includes at least two HVAC tune-ups plus added extras. Look for discounts and priority scheduling at the very least.
Priority scheduling can be a lifesaver — and it’s a service you may not value until you’re in a crisis.
“If a customer is calling with a need and they’re in distress because their system is broken — and let’s say that it’s 105 degrees outside — they need somebody there right now,” says Josh Condor, a division operations manager for ARS Central Division.
Worthwhile HVAC maintenance plans should include:
- Cleaning, optimization and inspections of air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps
- Filter checks and recommendations
- Automated scheduling to make it easy to use your plan
- Priority scheduling to move you to the front of the service line
- Discounts on parts and labor
Expert Insight: Do HVAC Pros Recommend Them?
HVAC experts recommend regular maintenance at least twice a year. These checks keep your systems running smoothly and come with clear benefits. Maintenance is often required for HVAC warranty claims, which makes them even more important. A few hundred dollars up front can save you thousands in emergency repair costs.
“Almost every manufacturer recommends it,” says Dooley. “And I can tell you that a lot of them also effectively require maintenance if you want to protect your warranty.” Even if a breakdown is covered under warranty, your claim could be denied if you can’t produce proper maintenance records.
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