What Are Trip Charges and Diagnostic Fees?

When you need heating, cooling or plumbing services from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, you will pay a trip charge and a diagnostic fee separately. A number of companies you’ve called in the past most likely combined the trip charge and diagnostic fee, but we believe we can offer greater value by separating them. 

What Exactly Is a Trip Charge? 

A trip charge covers the cost for a certified plumber or HVAC technician to come to your home. Often called a service call fee, this payment is the base rate for delivering our technicians, equipment and expertise to your door. If you’d like to avoid trip charges in the future, you can explore joining one of our membership programs

What Is a Diagnostic Fee? 

The diagnostic fee covers the services required to locate the source of a problem. With plumbing, this may be comprised of scoping. For HVAC repairs, it could involve inspecting the inside of your unit. If you elect to use Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for any repairs, the diagnostic fee will be rolled into the repair costs. 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 property, while the diagnostic fee covers all the work involved in assessing the issue and coming up with a plan for repairs. If you pay for repairs, you shouldn’t notice the diagnostic fee as it will be rolled into the cost of the repairs. 

Why Are Diagnostic Fees and Trip Charges Separated? 

Many plumbers and HVAC companies charge a single fee for both the trip and the diagnostics. As opposed to charging you for two services at the same time, we have two distinct fees. This enables us to price our services in the fairest possible 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.