What Are Trip Charges and Diagnostic Fees?

When you want heating, cooling or plumbing services from McKinley Heating Service Experts, you will handle the trip charge and a diagnostic fee individually. Some companies you’ve hired in the past might have combined the trip charge and diagnostic fee, but we believe we can provide you with greater value by separating them. 

What’s a Trip Charge? 

A trip charge covers the cost for a licensed plumber or HVAC technician to stop by your home. Often called a service call fee, this cost is the initial rate for delivering our technicians, equipment and expertise to your door. If you want to avoid trip charges in the future, you can explore registering for one of our membership programs. 

What Is a Diagnostic Fee? 

The diagnostic fee pays for the services required to determine the source of a problem. For plumbing, this may include scoping. During HVAC repairs, it might involve examining the inside of your unit. If you prefer to use McKinley Heating Service Experts for the repairs, the diagnostic fee would be rolled into the repair costs. But bear in mind, you are charged for the diagnostic services alone if you don’t. 

What Are the Differences Between a Trip Fee and a Diagnostic Fee 

Generally speaking, a trip fee includes sending the plumber or HVAC technician to your home, while the diagnostic fee encompasses all the work concerned with evaluating the problem and figuring out a plan for repairs. If you pay for repairs, you won’t notice the diagnostic fee as it’s rolled into the cost of the repairs. 

Why Are Diagnostic Fees and Trip Charges Billed Separately? 

Many plumbers and HVAC companies are going to charge one fee for both the trip and the diagnostics. As opposed to charging you for two services at once, we opt for two distinct fees. This enables us to price our services in the fairest possible manner.