Is a twice-yearly heating/AC maintenance agreement worthwhile?

Melissa G
by Melissa G
We're trying to save money where we can. Our system is less than 10 years old. Wondering if we should have a maintenance agreement or just pay whenever a problem comes up.
  4 answers
  • Sherrie S Sherrie S on Mar 30, 2012
    Melissa, I am not an expert & I suppose most knowledgable people will say NO to warranties. I signed up after the 1st year of warranty & because of the contract I get 10% off any service call. I also get an immediate response if I have a problem. The yearly price is inexpensive since they come to the home twice a year and do things I don't do or want to know how to do. This has worked for me but you have to trust the company or do it yourself. If you lived here I would give you references. There are too many things homeowners don't do that cost $$$$$$.$$.
  • Paul M Paul M on Mar 31, 2012
    I would have it checked out once a year, but if you know what you are looking for you can do that yourself. Coil cleaning and duct inspection is the bulk of what takes place. Of course the electronics are inspected as well but if they are working there isn't much to look at there.
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Mar 31, 2012
    How much are they asking for this service?...and how does it compare to a basic field visit. If the yearly cost is 200 and a basic visit is 75...then they may be taking advantage of your regular business. If a service call however is 150, then a preventative plan may save you in the long run...it also will depend on what services you can provide on your own for minimal cost. Being charged big bucks to swap out an air filter my be well within some folks skill set...but cleaning a coil may not be.
  • Jay Taylor Jay Taylor on Aug 08, 2014
    Just like any other appliance in your place, the window ACalso needs tender love and care. Make sure to give it a thorough cleaning atleast once a year: Air conditioners work more efficiently when the evaporator and condenser coils or cooling fins are clean and the fins are straight. Wash (or replace) the air filters and re installs the unit. It just might blow a lot cooler.