Your cooling and heating system is among your home’s most expensive features, and common HVAC maintenance costs add to operating expenses. However, preventative service can keep it running efficiently and for longer. Investing in proper care avoids most breakdowns and emergency service calls, making the expense worthwhile. We’ll examine the most common HVAC maintenance costs to help you budget and save over time.

HVAC Service Contract

Part of an HVAC maintenance service includes an HVAC service contract. The terms of the agreement vary depending on the company. Some contracts cover just basic maintenance and repairs. Others offer more extensive coverage. Before signing up, research whether the contract covers parts and labor and if it will save over paying local HVAC maintenance costs.

Benefits to look for in a maintenance plan include:

• Priority service

• Multi-point inspections

• Seasonal maintenance

• Repair discounts

• Service guarantees

HVAC Maintenance Cost Breakdown

When you purchase an AC maintenance contract, basic services should be covered, including the following:

• Install new air filters

• Clear condensate drains

• Inspect the evaporator coil

• Clean the condenser unit

• Test the thermostat

• Check electrical components and connections

• Measure airflow

• Evaluate refrigerant levels

During furnace maintenance, a technician will:

• Check the unit for rust or corrosion

• Inspect the ignitor and burners

• Inspect the heat exchanger

• Check the gas valve

• Inspect electrical connections

• Clean the flame sensor

• Inspect and clean the blower

• Test for carbon monoxide and other combustion gases

Labor

Regardless of what the maintenance contract includes, your local HVAC maintenance company will likely charge for labor. An HVAC professional’s hourly fee can range from can vary depending on the service. A maintenance visit usually takes one to two hours. However, depending on the company, it may charge a flat fee for service. It is usually calculated based on your home’s size.

Maintenance Costs by Type of Service

A maintenance visit can entail basic tasks and other HVAC services. Technicians usually have tools and replacement parts onboard their vehicles, so maintenance and repairs can often be completed in one visit. However, repairs and other services that go beyond the normal scope of maintenance will cost extra. The most common costs in this category, according to This Old House, include:

• Evaporator/Condenser Coil Cleaning

• Condensate Drain Line Cleaning

• Thermostat Replacement

• Refrigerant Recharge

• Refrigerant Leak Repair

• Capacitor Replacement

• Fan Motor Replacement

• Ductwork Repair

Is It Possible to Reduce HVAC Maintenance Costs?

Skipping out on your HVAC service plan won’t save you money. Quite the opposite is true. Without proper maintenance, a lack of care, plus letting small problems fester will lead to bigger issues that are more expensive to fix. Your system can break down entirely. It may require major repairs or early replacement. Therefore, maintenance can save you thousands of dollars; you can save even more by considering the following:

• Schedule AC maintenance in mid-to-late winter or early spring.

• Schedule heater maintenance in mid-to-late summer or early fall.

• Check if your manufacturer’s warranty or home insurance covers any extra costs.

• Purchase a high-quality HVAC system.

• Replace the air filter at least every three months.

• Replace the filter more often if it’s always dirty or you have pets.

• Seal ductwork to minimize air leakage.

• Install weatherstripping around windows and doors to reduce system demand.

• Set the temperature a few degrees warmer in summer and cooler in winter.

Are HVAC Maintenance Costs Worth It?

Maintenance once or twice a year is far less expensive than major repairs or replacing your heating and cooling system. Paying less now can avoid high costs later. While your HVAC system won’t last forever, preventative maintenance can help it last longer and run more efficiently. This saves a significant amount of money over time.

If you’re lucky, you may go many years paying only for your HVAC maintenance contract and whatever the company charges to visit your home. The more closely you follow their recommendations, the less often you may deal with extra expenses. You can also save time, as maintenance takes an hour or two, while major repairs can take several hours to several days, especially if parts must be ordered. But with routine service, you won’t spend more than necessary.

Schedule HVAC Maintenance with Sky Heating & Air Conditioning

Routine maintenance ensures your AC and heater aren’t neglected (which leads to the most expensive repairs). During preventative maintenance, our licensed HVAC technicians provide comprehensive service that includes inspecting, cleaning, and adjusting equipment. Members of our affordable Sky Signature Protection Plan receive timely, high-quality service. Scheduling reminders, discounted repairs, and other perks are included. 

We provide high-quality heating and cooling services in and around Portland. To learn more or schedule HVAC maintenance, call (503) 744-5851 today.