Are HVAC Maintenance Plans and Service Contracts Worth the Money?

Are you the type to always decline service warranties when you buy electronics? If so, you might assume that HVAC maintenance plans aren’t the best use of your money, but that’s not always the case. The benefits of an HVAC service contract can be worth the cost, depending on a few factors. Here’s what you should consider before buying an HVAC maintenance plan to help cover unexpected repair costs.

What Is an HVAC Maintenance Plan or Service Contract?

If you're installing a new HVAC system, be prepared to be offered a maintenance plan or service contract. This is an agreement where you pay a fee in exchange for ongoing HVAC services from the service provider.

Here’s what most heating and air conditioning maintenance plans include:

• Checkups

• Tuneups

• Seasonal HVAC maintenance 

• Parts and labor 

• Emergency services

• Priority treatment

Keep in mind that what a residential HVAC service contract includes varies by provider. Some HVAC companies offer tiered packages for different prices. 

Speak with your local HVAC repair pro to learn what a specific HVAC service contract will include. 

Pros and Cons of HVAC Maintenance Plans

If you’re wondering whether or not HVAC maintenance plans are worth it, consider the following pros and cons. 

Pros

Benefits of HVAC maintenance plans include:

• Priority service 

• Detection of minor issues before they grow

• Prevention of system damage

• Improvement of overall HVAC life span

• Better indoor air quality

• Switching out dirty filters

• More consistent maintenance work

While you can preserve your HVAC unit without a maintenance plan, this contract can provide more consistent work. And let’s face it—no one wants to wait extended times for a repair technician to come out if your AC or furnace breaks. This contract can help you get work done quickly, meaning you won’t be without heat or air conditioning for too long.

Cons

While there are many advantages of an HVAC maintenance plan, purchasing one can have its drawbacks.

• Costly—plans range from $150 to $300 annually

• HVAC or home warranty may already cover repairs

• Diligent DIY maintenance may mean you don’t need much servicing

• You may have to be at home during service, which is difficult to schedule for some people

Be sure to always check the finer details of the maintenance plan offering, as well as any existing HVAC warranty or home warranty you may have, before buying.

HVAC Maintenance Plans for Extreme Climates

An HVAC maintenance package with a priority clause can be worth its weight in gold for some households. If you live in a place with an extreme climate, going without heat or air conditioning is dangerous.

Consider an HVAC maintenance plan if your household has young children, elderly family members, or people vulnerable to extreme temperatures due to health conditions. It may be worth paying an annual fee for the peace of mind of knowing someone can come over quickly if something goes wrong with your system.

Do HVAC Service Contracts Cost More Than Repairs?

The biggest deterrent to an HVAC maintenance plan is cost. A quick cost analysis can help. The cost for HVAC repair work ranges from $130 to $2,000. 

With HVAC service contracts ranging between $150 and $300 per year, many people are willing to take their chances. 

If you have a new unit, you may be able to slide by on the manufacturer's warranty. Compare it to the HVAC service warranty you're offered. Remember that some manufacturers require a service contract as a term of the warranty. 

So, do your homework and read the fine print.

You also need to look at the value of the services being offered line by line. Sometimes, paying out of pocket for the services included will be about equal. These factors should help you determine if paying for an HVAC maintenance contract is worth the money.

Questions to Ask Before Buying an HVAC Service Contract

Heating and air conditioning are crucial components of a comfortable daily life. It’s only natural that you should ask questions before spending additional money on an HVAC service plan. 

How Do You Use Your HVAC System?

Are you gentle and purposeful with your HVAC system? Your usage plays a significant role in how your HVAC system runs. The AC maintenance tips and best practices you follow on your own can be just as important as what a technician can do during a single visit.

Here’s how to keep your HVAC system in great condition: 

• Run your HVAC unit at ideal times for your location.

• Use the correct AC unit size for your space. 

• Check that your home is sufficiently insulated to prevent your air conditioner from working too hard.

• Change your HVAC filter every three months or as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Remove debris around and outside of your HVAC unit.

• Clean ducts and registers.

Treating your unit right will help you save money on air conditioning costs and ultimately extend your unit's life.

How Often Does Your HVAC System Need Maintenance?

At the very least, you should schedule HVAC maintenance at least once a year. Your HVAC pro will check your AC and furnace for damage, clear out any debris from the outdoor unit, and check that the thermostat is working properly, among other things. An HVAC maintenance plan will cover this seasonal maintenance, a big perk of having the plan in place.

Outside of routine maintenance, other parts of your HVAC system might need replacing as they age. A good point to consider is what the most common repair for your model of HVAC system is, when it usually needs to be replaced, and how much it’ll cost. Considering this important point will help determine if the service contract is worth it.

How Is the HVAC Company’s Reputation?

A company that isn't reputable may view HVAC contracts as quick ways to collect money. Choose a trustworthy company with plenty of positive reviews and endorsements from known home services websites. Ask plenty of questions to verify the company has the right equipment for routine maintenance and repairs.