What Is an HVAC Service Contract and Is It Worth the Money?
An HVAC service contract ensures your system receives the maintenance it requires to operate most effectively and save on energy costs. It can save you money on service calls and repairs, as well.
By Tom Moor
It can be difficult to keep up with all the necessary home maintenance tasks on your to-do list, especially when you’re juggling work, errands, and busy family schedules. Things like oil changes or HVAC maintenance can easily slip through the cracks and get forgotten altogether.
One way to ensure you stay on top of necessary chores like HVAC maintenance is with a service contract. Let’s break down what an HVAC service contract is, the benefits, and whether it’s worth considering.
What is an HVAC service contract?
A service contract is a formal agreement between a customer and an HVAC company. Most service contracts include two scheduled tune-up visits per year: once before the cooling season and again before the heating season.
They’re convenient because appointments are set well in advance, and you’ll typically get a reminder call, text, or email to confirm the date. That eliminates the risk of forgetting to schedule maintenance, which can lead to a host of problems including inefficiency, increased wear and tear, and a shorter lifespan for your system.
HVAC maintenance plans are usually billed as a set annual fee, although some are payable in monthly installments. The total cost is generally lower than scheduling separate one-off heating and cooling maintenance appointments during a year’s span.
Depending on the company, plans may include extras like discounts on repairs, priority service, and other perks. Some HVAC companies offer a free or discounted first year after a system replacement.
As part of a typical service contract, an HVAC technician may perform tasks such as:
- Checking electrical connections
- Inspecting the thermostat
- Inspecting the blower, ignitor, and heat exchanger (furnace)
- Cleaning heating elements (furnace)
- Performing carbon monoxide testing (furnace)
- Lubricating moving parts
- Changing filters if needed
- Cleaning or checking the evaporator and condenser coils
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Inspecting and flushing the AC drain line if needed
- Cleaning the condensate drain pan (air conditioner or heat pump)
The benefits of enrolling in an HVAC maintenance plan
Peace of mind
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to forget to schedule maintenance. A service contract takes that responsibility off your plate by automatically setting appointments. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your home comfort system is cared for and ready to go when you need it the most.
Priority service
If you don’t like waiting in line, an HVAC maintenance plan could be perfect for you. During extreme weather, HVAC companies are flooded with calls, which can leave people waiting several days for service. A maintenance agreement helps you skip the line and get priority service – which is crucial on frigid winter nights or scorching summer days.
Lower repair costs
Many service contracts include discounts on HVAC repairs, which can be helpful if your system breaks down.
Fewer breakdowns
Speaking of breakdowns, regular tune-ups help technicians spot worn parts, loose connections, or sneaky leaks. By catching these issues early on, you’ll experience fewer breakdowns, saving you money in the long run.
Improved energy efficiency
A clean, well-maintained system doesn’t have to work as hard to heat or cool your home, which can translate to lower monthly energy bills.
Longer system lifespan
Maintenance helps your heating and cooling system run more efficiently and reduces strain on critical components. This can add a few more years of life compared to a system that’s neglected.
How much does an HVAC service contract cost?
The average yearly cost of an HVAC service contract – which typically covers two tune-ups per year and includes filters – ranges from about $175 to $350. Some companies also offer monthly payment options for about $15 to $30.
What factors affect the cost of a service contract?
The cost can vary based on the type of system you have (furnace, air conditioner, heat pump), the age and condition of your equipment, local labor rates, and whether the plan includes extras such as repair discounts or priority service.
When you think about the long-term savings from fewer repairs, better efficiency, and a longer lifespan, the relatively low cost of a maintenance plan often ends up paying for itself.
Can I perform preventative maintenance on my HVAC system?
Most of the in-depth work should be left to a qualified HVAC technician, but there are a few simple DIY tasks that can help keep your system running smoothly between tune-ups:
- Change filters regularly: Swap them out every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter and how often your system runs.
- Keep outdoor units clear: Trim vegetation and remove debris within two feet of the unit to allow for proper airflow.
- Check vents and registers: Make sure they aren’t blocked by furniture or curtains, which can restrict airflow.
- Monitor performance: Pay attention to unusual noises, odors, or weak airflow. Call a professional if you notice any issues.
Contact an American Standard® dealer for HVAC maintenance
Don’t trust something as important as your home’s comfort to just anyone. Reach out to an American Standard dealer for maintenance, repair, or replacement services. They can enroll you in an HVAC service contract, so you’ll spend less time worrying about your system and more time enjoying a comfortable, efficient home.
Author: Tom Moor
Expert review by Amy Gulas, Product Manager, Furnaces
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