And Why You Might Want To Consider Having One...
An AC maintenance service agreement can also be called a maintenance program or maintenance contract. Although the exact wording varies, it is essentially an agreement between a homeowner and HVAC provider wherein the latter performs a list of services to their air condition system a set number of times each year for a fee.
As you can imagine, the exact details and pricing will vary from one company to the next. The standard services performed include cleaning, inspecting, adjusting, and/or changing parts of air conditioners. Some contracts may also entitle homeowners to extra perks like priority service to avoid service delays. There's nothing like having the ac go out in the middle of July in Tallahassee, the quicker service is restored the better.
Benefits of AC Maintenance Service Agreement
An AC maintenance contract can help save homeowners money that they need to spend for annual inspections. Some plans provide discounts on repairs and replacements that may be needed in between visits.
Here are some additional benefits that can be obtained in an AC maintenance contract:
- Scheduled service reminders. Prior to the change of seasons, AC contractors are quite busy providing yearly maintenance for cooling systems. By having a maintenance plan, homeowners will be notified ahead of time of their scheduled service before the rush. This way, they can be sure to get their air conditioners in good condition before the new season begins.
- Maintenance documentation. When air conditioners receive yearly maintenance, the contractors will provide homeowners with the documentation that states the cooling systems have been serviced. Getting annual maintenance may be needed to keep most equipment warranties valid. This also works as proof that the cooling systems are maintained by experts each year to help sell a property.
- Prioritized service. Most AC maintenance plans entitle the subscribed homeowners priority service should their air condition require repair or replacement. Depending on the contract, they may also receive preferential treatment in case of an emergency.
- Longer AC system lifespan. Cooling systems are used to make indoor environments comfortable. Expecting an air conditioner to work around the clock without regular maintenance is like expecting a car to remain in top condition without regular oil changes. With a maintenance agreement, homeowners ensure that the lifespan of their equipment reaches its peak before it is replaced.
- More energy efficient. Although skipping maintenance may not have immediate adverse effects, it can impact cooling performance over time. When the air conditioner is not in its best shape, it will not operate as efficiently as it did before. Less efficiency means more energy consumed and higher utility bills.
- Identifying problems before they get worse. A regular service contract for air conditioners means that homeowners get regular assessments on the quality of their equipment. Potential problems are then identified and fixed before they become more costly and serious concerns.
- Better air quality indoors. The indoor air quality of a home is vital to keeping its occupants safe and healthy. Annual maintenance of air conditioning systems reduces the presence of harmful allergens in the air that can make people sick. By having AC systems regularly maintained, homeowners promote cleaner air flow indoors.
What to Look for in an AC Maintenance Contract
Every AC maintenance company will have different details depending on their services. However, there are some things homeowners should look for before signing the agreement.
Assess the Provider
The first step is to analyze the service provider. Whether a friend recommended the company or it was found on Google, homeowners should inform themselves about them.
Here are some questions to ask:
- Do they possess certifications?
- Is the company insured, bonded, and licensed?
- Are they a member of any local chambers of commerce?
- Do they have an ideal BBB rating?
- Can they meet the demands of a wide customer base?
- Do they provide 24/7 emergency AC service?
- Are they located nearby?
These are important questions to ask the service provider before signing the dotted line. Asking these questions can help homeowners understand the quality of their service and to avoid confusion later on. Some service agreements include "Extras" for example, We offer an ac maintenance service agreement that includes the following:
Cooper's Plumbing & Air offers our Comfort Club Agreement which includes:
- Priority Service
- 15% Discount on any repair or cleaning
- Drug-tested and background checked technicians
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed
- Transferable
- Regularly scheduled service
- Reminders- We'll call you!
- Increase equipment life
- Lower energy bills
- On-going safety inspections
All for the low price of $229, For 1 system twice a year!
Check the Contract
Homeowners should ask for a copy of the agreement and analyze the terms before signing. Ensure that the contract has a detailed list of what each inspection entails, how many inspections are performed each year, and any additional benefits. Request for specific details if the contract only has general claims.
Keep in mind that there can be a limit on how specific the services can be. The reason for this is because maintenance requirements vary depending on the equipment in place.
Assess the Price
Contract pricing also varies for each company. The more one understands the terms of the contract, the easier they can recognize whether they are paying a fair price for the service provided.
See If the Contract Can Be Customized
For those who have specific needs or unique equipment configurations, it would be best if a service provider can offer customized solutions. A custom contract provides flexibility and can cater to a range of options depending on the needs.
How Often Do AC Systems Need Maintenance?
This depends on the type of system in question. However, standard air conditioners typically require service at least once a year. It is best performed during spring to prepare it for the summer months.
Professional HVAC maintenance providers know the kind of service air conditioners require. Homeowners should consult with an expert to get a custom solution based on their needs.
Conclusion
Homeowners should keep their air conditioning system in top shape by scheduling regular AC maintenance. Getting a tune-up is one of the best ways to ensure that air conditioners are always ready to provide comfort during the hot summer months AND don't forget to change out your air filters.
By choosing a maintenance service plan, homeowners ensure that their AC system stays strong and efficient throughout the years. The system will experience fewer breakdowns, which is a huge benefit in itself. Homeowners can expect to save on ac repair costs when they acquire an AC service plan.
Aside from that, homeowners can ensure that they receive priority service during emergencies. Many AC maintenance companies have crews that are available around the clock if needed.
Get in Touch, call our experienced professionals for home, business, and emergency service for your heating and cooling systems. Our customer service is as reliable as our leading HVAC specialist in Tallahassee.
We have a satisfaction guarantee and pride ourselves on the quality of our service. If you want the best HVAC service provider to get the job done right the first time, call Cooper's Plumbing & Air today! (866) 464-7132