When you are looking for heating, cooling or plumbing services from A1 Chesney Service Experts, you will handle the trip charge and a diagnostic fee independently. A number of companies you’ve hired in the past most likely combined the trip charge and diagnostic fee, but we think we can provide you with even more value by separating them.
What Exactly Is a Trip Charge?
A trip charge covers the cost for a certified 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 cut out the trip charges in the future, you can consider joining one of our membership programs.
What Is a Diagnostic Fee?
The diagnostic fee covers the services needed to locate the root of a problem. In plumbing, this could include scoping. In HVAC repairs, it could involve inspecting the inside of the cabinet. If you decide to use A1 Chesney Service Experts for your repairs, the diagnostic fee is rolled into the repair costs. But bear in mind, you're charged for the diagnostic services alone if you choose not to.
What Are the Differences Between a Trip Fee and a Diagnostic Fee
In most cases, a trip fee covers sending the plumber or HVAC technician to your home, while the diagnostic fee addresses all the work involved in evaluating the issue and working up a plan for repairs. If you are paying for repairs, you won’t even notice the diagnostic fee since it's included with the cost of the repairs.
Why Are Diagnostic Fees and Trip Charges Billed Separately?
Some other plumbers and HVAC companies will charge one fee for both the trip and the diagnostics. Rather than charging you for two services at once, we prefer two individual fees. This enables us to price our services in the fairest available manner.