We have a HVAC system installed in 2018 by a local independent pretty much one-man shop.

He does a yearly thing where he comes in May for AC and heat in October and does a "tune-up" but my wife says he's here for like 5 minutes each time and he now wants $275 for this. Doesn't appear to be cleaning anything and is definitely not replacing an any filters because I do that. He notes temps on some log on the front of the furnace and that seems to be about it.

My in-laws use HomeServe and the plan they have is about the same price for a year BUT gets them the 2 annual checks AND any needed service calls if they lose heat or AC or something else goes haywire.

I think we may use them going forward but I wasn't sure if anyone else here had used them?

I punch a hole for a thermometer at the air intake duct and the output duct. I take readings and record these and the outside temperature.

You can wash the outside coils with a dish soap like Dawn. You already change the filter so pay yourself $200 towards that next pistol.

My experiences with home warranties (wife's parent's home) have been nothing but negative. If there is any place better to self-insure, I haven't seen it.

Besides, those creepy HomeServe commercials make me disinclined to go anywhere near this company. When the CEO winds up in bed between a married couple, what sort of thinking is OK'ing those images? Not to mention fish lips guy who stomps around with his hands holding his imaginary dick....
I'm a pretty tolerant guy with a strong stomach, but what kind of message is HomeServe trying to put across in their ads?

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He does a yearly thing where he comes in May for AC and heat in October and does a "tune-up" but my wife says he's here for like 5 minutes each time and he now wants $275 for this.

I think if you shop around a bit you'll find someone local to do a "clean and check" for about $75. It shouldn't be $275.

I contract with a local Trane certified HVAC company. Spring and Fall full service. Advantage? Free emergency call out [holidays and nights/weekends) and reduced rate on parts. Two years ago during a bitter cold spell our heat pump couldn't do the job, and our Emergency Heat wouldn't work on a weekend. Service tech came dressed in a snowmobile suit. $45 for a new contactor.