What Are Trip Charges and Diagnostic Fees?

When you want heating, cooling or plumbing services from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, you will pay for the trip charge and a diagnostic fee independently. Some companies you’ve called in the past may have combined the trip charge and diagnostic fee, but we believe we can offer you better value by separating the two.

What Is a Trip Charge?

A trip charge covers the cost for a qualified plumber or HVAC technician to visit your home. Often called a service call fee, this payment is the base rate for bringing our technicians, equipment and expertise to your doorstep. If you want to avoid trip charges in the future, you can explore signing up for one of our membership programs.

What Is a Diagnostic Fee?

The diagnostic fee covers the services necessary to locate the root cause of a problem. With plumbing, this may consist of scoping. For HVAC repairs, it may involve inspecting the inside of your system. If you prefer to use Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for any repairs, the diagnostic fee is rolled into the repair costs. But bear in mind, you are charged for the diagnostic services alone if you don't.

What Is the Difference Between a Trip Fee and a Diagnostic Fee

In general, a trip fee covers sending the plumber or HVAC technician to your residence, while the diagnostic fee addresses all the work concerned with evaluating the problem and working up a plan for repairs. If you pay for repairs, you won't notice the diagnostic fee because it will be rolled into the cost of the repairs.

Why Are Diagnostic Fees and Trip Charges Separated?

Other plumbers and HVAC companies are going to charge one fee for both the trip and the diagnostics. Rather than charging you for two services together, we opt for two distinct fees. This helps us to price our services in the fairest available manner.