FAQs – Flute Care

Q: Why do I need Flute Care if the flute is new?
A. Each new flute sold by Flute World is setup and optimized by our master technicians so that it plays its best. Skilled maintenance is required to keep your flute playing at its best. Flute Care is the most convenient, reliable, and cost-effective way to keep your flute in optimum performing condition.

Q: Does my flute really need to be serviced every year?
A. Yes. Every flute and piccolo should receive an annual Master Service to maintain optimum performance. Leaks develop over time causing the player (often unknowingly) to squeeze the mechanism and work harder to play the instrument. Additionally, dirt and tarnish left unchecked can wear away at the pads and the mechanism resulting in accumulated damage and larger repair costs down the road.

Q: Why should I pre-pay for servicing I may not need?
A. Because you will need it. Instruments are mechanical and mechanical devices need routine maintenance. Think of it like getting an oil change for your car. Flute Care also covers routine adjustments and includes free shipping, priority service, and free appraisals. Even without the extra perks, Flute Care saves you money on your annual Master Service.

Q: Will my flute be covered for accidental damage?
A. Flute Care covers accidental damage as long as the repair work is within our capabilities.

Q: How long will I be without my flute for servicing?
A. A typical Master Service take up to 2 weeks to complete. Routine adjustments usually take up to 3 business days to complete. Remember to include shipping times when considering how long you will be without your flute.

Q: What kind of routine adjustments does my flute need?
A. The most common issues are leaks that develop in the pads over time and key to key adjustments. Sometimes it’s as simple as an out of place spring. Whatever the issue, simply schedule an appointment when you notice your flute is not playing its best and we will take care of it for you.

Q: Can’t I just take my flute to my local music store to get it repaired?
A. Flute World’s master technicians are specifically trained in the art of repairing and maintaining flutes and piccolos. These highly skilled, flute technicians know how to optimize your instrument to perform at its absolute best.

Q: What will I spend to maintain my flute without Flute Care?
A. When you total the standard full price of a Master Service, the cost of routine adjustments and for shipping, you could spend over $1000 annually to maintain your flute.

Q: Do I need to renew Flute Care?
A. Your plan will automatically renew on a monthly or annual basis unless you cancel your subscription. If you would like to opt out, please contact us at least two weeks prior to your next automatic charge and your subscription will be canceled. No refunds will be issued for any amount previously charged.

Q: Will I get a reminder to send my flute for its annual Master Service?
A. Although, we do not currently send reminders to schedule your instrument’s annual Master Service, once you have scheduled it we do send an automated email to remind you of your upcoming appointment.

Q: Why would I need an appraisal for my flute?
A. It is important to keep your flute protected with insurance and in most cases, your insurance company will request an official appraisal to determine the replacement value of your instrument. In as little as a year or less, the replacement value for your instrument can go up, leaving you underinsured if your insurance is not updated with a current appraisal.

Q: Is my flute insured when I use your shipping label?
A. No, but we strongly recommend having your flute insured before shipping.

Q: How do I redeem my free shipping with Flute Care?
A. Once you have made your service appointment, we will email a FedEx label for your convenience. Your instrument must be taken to any FedEx drop off location.

Q: Is it safe to ship the flute for repair?
A. Yes! We ship flutes every day without incident. We work primarily with FedEx, and they have proven safe and reliable. When you send your flute to us and when it is returned to you, a signature will be required. Additionally, your instrument will be returned to you in a specially designed, foam-lined flute shipping box. We suggest you keep this box for future shipments.

Q: How much does it cost to ship a flute without Flute Care?
A. If you ship your instrument with UPS or FedEx and purchase the carrier insurance, the shipping + insurance can be upwards of $200.