Customers in Pennsylvania who sign up for new residential electric service with Direct Energy can get an added bonus.

They can receive a free, six month trial of Direct Energy’s "Heating and Cooling Repair Essential Plan." Here’s how it works:

For a limited time, customers who reside in single family homes and sign up for new residential service are offered the plan. If they choose to accept, they will receive a free, six month trial. The plan provides priority service when scheduling appointments and any repair to their HVAC system, up to $500 per visit, is covered at no cost. There is a $2,000 cap on repairs per year. At the end of six months, customers will have the opportunity to renew for $16.99 per month. Current Direct Energy customers can also sign up for the new protection plan for $16.99 per month for 12 months.

This protection plan bundle is designed to offer peace of mind to customers knowing their heating and cooling system will be protected against costly repairs. Service will be done by a local, verified company backed by Direct Energy and customers can save money knowing their heating and cooling system is operating efficiently.

"It was a difficult winter and we’re all concerned with saving money. The warmer months are approaching and air conditioning can be a big expense," says Manu Asthana, president of Direct Energy’s residential business. "We’re launching this energy and protection plan bundle to help our customers save money."

"This is an innovative solution that offers peace of mind. Customers will know that most repairs of their system will be covered and that it is operating efficiently," says Scott Boose, president of Direct Energy Services. "This was designed with very few exclusions after listening to our customers about what they need and want," adds Boose.