Oil Heat Business

Josey Whales

I'm new to the trade and would like to know from a business perspective how does a yearly service contract work. Does the yearly tune up and cleaning price include the service contact as well. If I go to a no heat call and replace a fuel unit coupler what is the accepted practice of billing. From Ma.
Thanks JW

mdshunk

The annual PM customers have a different rate schedule normally for non-included items, like your pump coupler example. The annual service agreement includes cleaning, nozzle, oil filter, air filter (if warm air), belt adjustment (if low boy warm air), drain and refill expansion tank if needed (non bladder type), and Bacharrach test. Anything other than that gets the "plan rate" for the repair(s). This is also your "in" for upsells like outdoor resets, Tiger Loops, and stuff like that.

Everyone should pay when the service is completed, with the exception of multi-site and commercial clients, who typically get billed. Sob stories in the middle of a cold night can write a post-dated check if you're feeling generous. Consider flat rate billing, and getting paid before you turn a wrench on the actual repair. There are quite a few flat rate systems for an oil burner man that aren't too much money.

Josey Whales

Thank you, If you could would you please expand on your last thought, There are quite a few flat rate systems for an oil burner man that aren't too much money?

RenaissanceR

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mdshunk

Sorry, I can't, because I'm not an oil burner man. I have run across at least two such flat rate systems in the past for your trade while doing research on flat rate systems. Google AirTime 500 or Flat Rate Plus and see where that takes you.