What Are Trip Charges and Diagnostic Fees?

When you need heating, cooling or plumbing services from Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air, you will handle the trip charge and a diagnostic fee independently. Many companies you’ve called in the past may have combined the trip charge and diagnostic fee, but we feel we can offer you even more value by separating the two.

What's a Trip Charge?

A trip charge covers the cost for a certified plumber or HVAC technician to visit your home. Sometimes called a service call fee, this charge is the standard rate for sending our technicians, equipment and expertise to your doorstep. If you'd like to cut out the trip charges in the future, you can explore registering for one of our membership plans.

What Is a Diagnostic Fee?

The diagnostic fee is made up of the services necessary to locate the source of a problem. In plumbing, this may include scoping. During HVAC repairs, it could involve taking a look at the inside of the cabinet. If you elect to use Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air for the repairs, the diagnostic fee would be rolled into the repair bill. But bear in mind, you are charged for the diagnostic services alone if you do not.

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 residence, while the diagnostic fee encompasses all the work involved in evaluating the issue and coming up with a plan for repairs. If you're 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 Separated?

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