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Do You Offer Free Estimates? Understanding Our Service Charges and Why They Matter

Something is wrong with your HVAC, and you’re not sure what it is. This is a normal situation that happens to thousands of people every year. To identify the problem and get an HVAC estimate, call a technician who can distinguish between issues like a thermostat malfunction, clogged filter, leaking coolant line, or broken part. They will schedule a time to visit, drive to your house, and perform a technical diagnostic.

It’s only natural to ask for a free HVAC estimate before the cost of repairs. We are all looking for opportunities to save. However, in the HVAC industry, the assessment likely comes with a baseline cost. While some situations may offer free estimates, the typical HVAC repair visit rarely includes one.

Let’s talk about how free estimates work in the HVAC industry and when we offer them at Capital City Comfort Solutions.

Free HVAC Estimate for New System Installations

At Capital City, there is one situation where we will offer a free HVAC estimate. This is when a customer is planning to install new equipment. We know this is a big investment, and the decision-making process is critical. To choose the right system, including the right size, power, and features, you’ll need a detailed assessment of your home’s needs.

We offer a free estimate to help you take that important first step toward choosing an HVAC system and scheduling the installation. New HVAC systems are a big expense, and the cost of installation itself offsets the time we take to provide a free estimate. In other words, a free estimate before installation is not just helpful or promotional; it’s a solid business practice.

The Baseline Cost of an HVAC Repair Visit

On the flip side, normal HVAC repair visits do not come with a free estimate. When you schedule a repair appointment, we send a skilled HVAC technician equipped with the proper tools to determine the cause of your system failure. In some cases, they will be able to enact the solution right away, as part of the initial service. This could include flipping the breaker, cleaning parts, or recalibrating the thermostat—simple repairs that don’t need parts or much time. Considering both time and the potential for a quick solution, there is a standard price for your HVAC visit.

At Capital City Comfort Solutions, your visit will likely cost:

  • $89 for a typical visit during regular hours
  • $69 for a service agreement customer
  • $135 for an after-hours emergency visit

Once we assess your system, we’ll let you know if additional costs are required to complete the repair. We will explain and quote any necessary repairs, and you will approve the costs before we perform additional work. Whether we need to order a part or have it on hand, our fees are clear and focused on fixing your HVAC quickly.

The Essential Price-Cost Formula

When are free estimates available for an HVAC assessment? When the baseline price of the service covers the cost of providing an estimate. In other words, time is money. Providing an in-home estimate has a baseline cost for any local service. It includes the time of a skilled professional, the use of a company vehicle, and the fuel cost for travel.

We offer free estimates for new equipment installation because the price of that installation is significantly higher than the cost of an in-home assessment. It’s a good deal for our customers and allows us to maintain a practical price-to-cost ratio.

We charge a baseline cost for typical technician visits because time is money. If the fix is simple and requires no parts, we may include the repair in the baseline price or we will quote the repair costs before moving forward.

Do we offer free estimates? Only if you are ready to install a new system. Whether you require HVAC repair services or an initial installation assessment, contact us for all your heating and cooling needs.

Capital City Comfort Solutions