Everything You Need to Know About AC Maintenance Contracts

Everything You Need to Know About AC Maintenance Contracts

If you've ever had an air conditioning service in Pittsburgh, PA, your technician might have suggested you purchase an AC maintenance contract. Often, people turn down AC contracts because they think they're an upsell or a waste of money. In actuality, a maintenance contract saves homeowners money because the services provided as part of the contract extend the life expectancy of your AC system.

Technician Repairing ACOther benefits of an air conditioning maintenance contract include:

  • Lower operating costs due to adjusting and cleaning important parts of the system that affect efficiency
  • Fewer air conditioning repair services because problems are spotted early on and fixed quickly
  • Cleaner air with fewer allergens and other pollutants settling in your home and causing respiratory issues

While all these benefits are attractive, a maintenance contract is only as good as the benefits it offers. In the following sections, you'll learn more about what a maintenance contract should offer and how to make sure you enter into an agreement that's beneficial to you for many years.

Company Information

Have you ever entered into a contract with a company for a lifetime guarantee or service only to discover the company goes out of business, and you're left with a broken promise? Fortunately, this doesn't have to happen to you.

When entering into a maintenance contract with a local AC company in Pittsburgh, make sure they have a long-standing reputation in the community. Does the contract have specific language that details what happens if the company goes out of business or mergers with another company? Read the fine print so that you know your rights.

Contract Specifics

You also want to learn the specific benefits your service contract offers. Things to look for include the number of inspections allowed each year, what each inspection includes, and the cost of the contract renewal. If the contract doesn't include specific details, it's too general. Ask for more details so that you know exactly what you're paying for.

Contract Perks

One reason AC maintenance contracts make so much sense from a financial standpoint is that they offer additional perks. These benefits include things such as preferred pricing, no trip charges, priority service, and discounts on labor, parts, and service work. A perk like priority service is especially beneficial if you should have problems and need AC repair between visits and need a technician during a busy time like a heatwave. AC maintenance contract holders get priority scheduling.

Refunds

This is important information to know if you plan to sell your home in the next couple of years. If you purchase a multi-year service contract, will you be able to get your money back for unused service calls? Or, does the company let you transfer the contract to your new home? Make sure you understand these fine details because they add value to the contract.

Customization

Most AC contracts offer the same general services. However, if you have a specialty system with unusual equipment setup, you might need specialized maintenance services. In a case like this, customization is important to ensure you get what you need from the maintenance contract.

The best way to save on AC service in Pittsburgh, PA, is to take care of your system. To learn more about AC maintenance contracts and other HVAC services, contact Stahl Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today at 412-273-1000.