Device and method for providing HVAC service assistance

A method of assisting a user in obtaining service for a climate control system, the method comprising the steps of:

• providing a service assistance device associated with a thermostat for the climate control system, the service assistance device including a memory device and an input device via which the user can provide a request for assistance;
• storing a prerecorded audio message in the memory device, said prerecorded message containing contact information for an HVAC contractor;
• receiving a request for assistance provided by the user via the input device;
• and
• playing back the prerecorded message to provide the contact information for the HVAC contractor to the user in response to the received request for assistance.

A thermostat for a climate control system, the thermostat comprising:

• a switch movable by a user from a first position to a second position;
• a memory device storing a prerecorded audio message containing contact information for an HVAC contractor;
• a speaker for playing back the prerecorded audio message;
• and
• a processor operatively connected to the switch, the memory device, and the speaker, the processor being configured to play back the prerecorded audio message containing contact information for the HVAC contractor through the speaker, in response to the user initiating a request for assistance relating to the climate control system by moving the switch from the first position to the second position.