When Should I Get an AC Tune-Up?

Air conditioner tune-ups take about an hour, if everything goes well. A professional will check for problems and fix them before they become more extensive, expensive repairs.

This prevents a leak from getting worse and damaging your system. It also helps you avoid expensive repairs while your AC is still under warranty.

Spring

It’s best to get your AC serviced in spring before the summer heat arrives. This will ensure that your air conditioning works when you need it most, which will save energy and prevent costly repairs.

A professional will check and clean the evaporator coils to make sure they’re free of dust or debris that could cause your AC to run inefficiently. They’ll also check the fan balance, as an improperly balanced fan can hinder heat dissipation.

HVAC professionals have extensive knowledge of all types of systems and are trained to spot small issues that would otherwise go unnoticed. They’ll inspect the system for any signs of a leak or other problems, and can take care of these issues right away before they become more serious. They’ll also lubricate all moving parts to reduce friction and prolong the lifespan of your unit.

Summer

A regular AC tune up is an ideal way to keep your air conditioning system running at its best for the summer. During this service, the technician will clean the outdoor unit and casing to remove any debris or dirt that may be blocking airflow. They will also clean the evaporator coils to make sure that they are free of any dirt or dust that can cause your system to run inefficiently.

An AC system that runs for long periods without cooling the home to its desired temperature can quickly drain your energy bill. During a tune up, the technician will check for problems that can cause high utility bills, including insufficient refrigerant and clogged air filters.

It is best to get a routine maintenance inspection in the spring before the heat of summer, but if you missed this opportunity, a fall tune up is a great way to keep your AC working efficiently for the rest of the year.

Fall

In the fall, an HVAC professional can perform a basic tune-up to prepare your system for winter. During this time, it’s easy to find problems that may be overlooked during summer use. For example, if you notice an increase in energy bills or smell foul odors when the system is running, a professional can examine the evaporator coil and ducts for cleaning.

Weak airflow from the cooling registers could mean a problem with the air conditioning unit, leaky ducts, or clogged filters. A tune up will address the issue and save you money on a costly repair.

Many people consider annual tune ups to be another item on their never-ending to-do list, but it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. And, in contrast to emergency heating repairs, a system that is maintained regularly is less likely to break down at the worst possible time. And, in the case of air conditioners, annual maintenance is required for warranty protection.

Winter

If you’re finding that your air conditioner is working hard to cool the home but not doing so effectively, it may be due to a lack of yearly maintenance. This service allows your HVAC technician to clean coils and filters, remove any blockades that hinder optimum operation, and add refrigerant if needed.

An AC tune-up ensures that your cooling system will be ready to go when the warm weather arrives. It also helps prevent any issues that might arise during the summer that could cause expensive repairs later.

An AC tune-up includes inspection of the condenser, a process that requires removing the outdoor unit cover and disassembling it. The coils and fan are cleaned of any dirt, debris, or mold that has accumulated over time, which decreases efficiency and leads to higher energy bills. Refrigerant is added if necessary, and any leaks are detected and repaired. The service also involves replacing the air filter. This will ensure that you have a fresh, high-efficiency air filter to cool your home with.