What Are Trip Charges and Diagnostic Fees?

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

What Is a Trip Charge? 

A trip charge handles the cost for a certified plumber or HVAC technician to visit your home. Occasionally called a service call fee, this payment is the initial rate for bringing our technicians, equipment and expertise to your door. If you’d like to eliminate trip charges in the future, you can consider registering for one of our membership plans

What Is a Diagnostic Fee? 

The diagnostic fee covers the services necessary to find the root of a problem. With plumbing, this could include scoping. During HVAC repairs, it could involve examining the inside of your system. If you elect 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 don’t. 

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 encompasses all the work related to evaluating the problem and coming up with a plan for repairs. If you are paying for repairs, you won’t even notice the diagnostic fee as it’s rolled into the cost of the repairs. 

Why Are Diagnostic Fees and Trip Charges Separated? 

Other plumbers and HVAC companies charge one fee for both the trip and the diagnostics. As opposed to charging you for two services together, we opt for two individual fees. This allows us to price our services in the fairest available manner. 

Savings For You

See All Offers Here >

Solar Consultation

$50 OFF Drain Cleaning

© 2023 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. *Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.