We tend to take our heating and cooling systems for granted. We just flip the switch when we want them on and off they go, with no fuss, muss, bother or worry required.
But all good things must come to an end, and at some point it is inevitable that your HVAC equipment will malfunction and need repairs. Or it may fail completely and need to be replaced. In either scenario significant financial investments may be necessary to make everything right, and this can put quite a dent in your bank account if you are unprepared.
Obviously it would be nice to have some form of insurance to protect you from sudden and unexpected HVAC costs. Fortunately there are two types of “insurance” that do cover HVAC-related expenses. One is called a home warranty and the other is known as an HVAC maintenance plan, and we will introduce you to both so you can compare them for yourself.
Home Warranties
Home warranties for HVAC systems offer financial coverage for various repairs and procedures, which may include plumbing in addition to heating and air conditioning services. They are sold by home warranty companies that act as facilitators, connecting homeowners or commercial property owners with HVAC service providers in the local community.
While warranties do provide coverage for certain services they are more focused on repairs than maintenance and may not cover periodic check-ups or tune-ups. Many home warranties also come with deductibles—and naturally the cheaper the price of the warranty the higher the deductible you’ll have to pay if and when you need to have some work done.
Home warranties cover a lot but they don’t cover everything, so you’ll have to read the fine print carefully before you sign anything.
HVAC Maintenance Plans
Unlike home warranties HVAC maintenance plans are designed to head off trouble before it starts. Generally a good maintenance plan will provide no-cost cleanings and check-up visits from technicians on a twice-yearly basis, which dramatically increases the chances of problems being discovered before they get out of hand.
Discounts on supplies and services calls are also made available to those on maintenance plans, to help keep the costs of repairs under control.
In contrast to home warranties, maintenance plans are offered directly by HVAC repair and installation companies. This lets you to select a service provider you’re already familiar with, or that you know has an excellent reputation in your community.
Expedited, same-day service is the rule rather than the exception for maintenance plan subscribers, who are seen as valued customers by HVAC companies because of their proven commitment to careful maintenance of their heating and cooling systems.
Home Warranty or Maintenance Plan? The Decision is Yours
While HVAC maintenance plans have some obvious advantages over home warranties, everyone’s situation is different and what makes sense for someone else might not be right for you.
Your smartest course of action is to investigate all the available options in both categories. Scrutinize the warranties and maintenance plans offered by various companies and choose the one that best fits your needs—and is offered by a company you know you can trust.
Please continue to follow the Valley Comfort Heating and Air
Conditioning blog for more important information about quality HVAC services and performance. And If you’re in Santa Rosa or the Napa Valley area and need help with your HVAC system, or if you just have questions about the kinds of services and products we offer, feel free to contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What exactly is included in an HVAC maintenance agreement?
An HVAC maintenance agreement typically covers biannual inspections, cleanings, and tune-ups. Technicians will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, replace air filters, and inspect components like motors and electrical connections. This ensures your system runs efficiently all year, reducing the risk of breakdowns and keeping your energy bills in check.
2. Can an HVAC maintenance agreement help extend the lifespan of my system?
Yes, regular maintenance can significantly extend your HVAC system’s lifespan. By addressing minor issues before they escalate, the system experiences less wear and tear. This can add several years to its life, reducing the need for expensive replacements down the road.
3. Is an HVAC maintenance agreement worth the cost?
Absolutely! While the upfront cost may seem like an added expense, a maintenance plan can prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future. A well-maintained system also runs more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills over time.
4. Are HVAC maintenance plans tax deductible?
In most cases, residential HVAC maintenance plans are not tax-deductible. However, if you’re a landlord or own a business, you may be able to deduct maintenance expenses as part of your operational costs. It’s always best to consult a tax advisor for specifics.
5. How does a home warranty differ from an HVAC maintenance agreement?
A home warranty typically covers repairs and replacements after your system breaks down, but may not cover routine maintenance. In contrast, an HVAC maintenance agreement focuses on preventing problems before they occur, with regular inspections and tune-ups to keep your system in good shape.
6. Do HVAC maintenance agreements save on repair costs?
Yes, by catching potential issues early, an HVAC maintenance agreement can reduce the likelihood of costly repairs. Some plans even offer discounts on parts and labor, saving you even more when repairs are needed.
7. How often should maintenance be done under an HVAC agreement?
Most HVAC agreements include two service visits per year—one before the summer for your AC and another before winter for your heating system. This ensures your equipment is ready for extreme temperatures and operates efficiently during peak seasons.
8. Do I need a maintenance agreement for a new HVAC system?
Even with a new HVAC system, a maintenance plan is a wise investment. It helps keep your warranty valid, ensures your system runs at peak efficiency, and prevents minor issues from turning into major problems.
9. Does an HVAC maintenance agreement affect my system’s warranty?
Yes, many manufacturers require regular maintenance to keep your warranty intact. Skipping maintenance could void your warranty, meaning you’d have to pay out of pocket for repairs or replacements that would otherwise be covered.
10. What should I look for when choosing an HVAC maintenance agreement?
Look for an agreement that includes comprehensive inspections, cleanings, and priority service. It’s also important to check if it covers emergency repairs, parts discounts, and labor. Be sure to choose a reputable company with good reviews and a solid track record.