When you need heating, air conditioning or plumbing services from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, you will pay a trip charge and a diagnostic fee individually. A number of companies you’ve hired in the past may have combined the trip charge and diagnostic fee, but we feel we can provide you with greater value by separating them.
What Exactly Is a Trip Charge?
A trip charge includes the cost for a certified plumber or HVAC technician to stop by your home. Sometimes called a service call fee, this charge is the base rate for bringing our technicians, equipment and expertise to your doorstep. If you want to eliminate trip charges in the future, you can look into registering for one of our membership programs.
What Is a Diagnostic Fee?
The diagnostic fee covers the services needed to determine the root cause of a problem. In plumbing, this may include scoping. For HVAC repairs, it might involve examining the inside of your unit. If you decide to use Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for any repairs, the diagnostic fee will be rolled into the repair bill. That said, you will be charged for the diagnostic services alone if you choose not to.
What Are the Differences Between a Trip Fee and a Diagnostic Fee
In general, a trip fee includes sending the plumber or HVAC technician to your property, while the diagnostic fee covers all the work related to assessing the problem and working up a plan for repairs. If you are paying for repairs, you shouldn't notice the diagnostic fee since it will be included with the cost of the repairs.
Why Are Diagnostic Fees and Trip Charges Billed Separately?
Some other plumbers and HVAC companies charge one single fee for both the trip and the diagnostics. As opposed to charging you for two services at once, we opt for two distinct fees. This enables us to price our services in the fairest available manner.