What Are Trip Charges and Diagnostic Fees?
When you are looking for heating, air conditioning or plumbing services from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, you will handle the trip charge and a diagnostic fee individually. Some companies you’ve hired in the past might have combined the trip charge and diagnostic fee, but we believe we can provide you with even more value by keeping them separate.
What Exactly Is a Trip Charge?
A trip charge handles the cost for a certified plumber or HVAC technician to visit your home. Sometimes called a service call fee, this charge is the initial rate for sending our technicians, equipment and expertise to your doorstep.
What Is a Diagnostic Fee?
The diagnostic fee is made up of the services necessary to determine the root cause of a problem. In plumbing, this can consist of scoping. For HVAC repairs, it could involve examining the inside of the cabinet. If you decide to use Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for the repairs, the diagnostic fee will be rolled into the repair bill. But bear in mind, you will be charged for the diagnostic services alone if you choose not to.
What Is the Difference Between a Trip Fee and a Diagnostic Fee
Generally speaking, a trip fee covers sending the plumber or HVAC technician to your home, while the diagnostic fee covers all the work related to evaluating the problem and working up a plan for repairs. If you’re paying for repairs, you won’t notice the diagnostic fee since it will be absorbed into the cost of the repairs.
Why Are Diagnostic Fees and Trip Charges Separated?
Some other plumbers and HVAC companies are going to charge a single fee for both the trip and the diagnostics. Rather than charging you for two services at the same time, we opt for two individual fees. This enables us to price our services in the fairest available manner.
