If you drive a car, you probably get it tuned up regularly. Air conditioners also require tune-ups so they stay reliable. But what does an AC tune-up mean? To help you understand the idea, it is part of an annual maintenance visit and includes various tasks that ensure it works smoothly, safely, and efficiently throughout the summer season.
- What Does an AC Tune-Up Entail?
- Why Should I Have an AC Tune-Up?
- Signs You Need an AC Tune-Up Now
- Can I Tune-Up an AC Myself?
What Does an AC Tune-Up Entail?
A tune-up means your air conditioner is fully inspected. The technician follows a detailed checklist that covers the system’s components and every aspect of its performance. Aside from a general inspection, the HVAC technician will:
- Replace the air filter
- Install a HEPA or UV filter if necessary
- Measure the refrigerant level
- Recharge refrigerant if necessary
- Check for condensate leaks
- Tighten any loose electrical connections
- Check the thermostat is working
- Look for blockages in air ducts
- Clean dirty air ducts or vents
- Clean debris from the evaporator and condenser coils
- Clean and adjust blower components
- Tighten and adjust belts
These are just a few examples of what a contractor does during an AC tune-up. They also run the system to see how it’s working. Measuring the temperature differential between the supply and return flow and checking the air temperature against the thermostat setting help ensure it’s running smoothly.
Any unusual readings are investigated further by checking for common issues. If minor repairs are needed, they can usually be completed on the spot with parts and tools from the technician’s truck.
Why Should I Have an AC Tune-Up?
HVAC companies advertise air conditioner tune-ups for a few good reasons. By inspecting, cleaning, adjusting, and sometimes repairing components, there can be benefits such as:
- More Consistent Cooling: Tuning up your AC ensures you get reliable, even cooling without temperature fluctuations or hotter or colder rooms.
- Improved Energy Efficiency: To achieve maximum efficiency, an AC’s components must work smoothly and in harmony. Any friction or part out of place or working at a different speed can make the unit work harder.
- Lower Energy Costs: A well-maintained air conditioner uses less energy to cool your home, so your energy bills will most likely be lower each month.
- Major Repairs Are Avoided: Minor damage can develop over time due to normal operation. A tune-up allows a technician to find it and perform fixes that avoid major costly repairs.
- Longer Lasting AC: Your air conditioner can last 15 years or more if problems are diagnosed and corrected early. This reduces wear on vital components such as the compressor and evaporator coil.
Signs You Need an AC Tune-Up Now
Generally, a tune-up and AC maintenance can be performed on a schedule. An air conditioner should be checked by a professional in the spring (if you have a heat pump, a second maintenance call should be booked in the fall). However, if the system isn’t working effectively or is showing signs of a problem, a tune-up can be completed at any time.
Signs you should schedule an AC tune-up promptly include:
- An unexpected spike in your energy bill
- Hot air starts blowing from your AC vents
- Less airflow from the HVAC registers
- The air temperature doesn’t match the thermostat setting
- Your home feels more humid than usual
- Your air conditioner runs constantly
- The AC unit turns on and off too quickly
- The unit makes screeching, rattling, buzzing, and other unusual noises
Can I Tune-Up an AC Myself?
A tune-up involves tasks that require expert knowledge. You should never attempt to access the interior of your AC system and manipulate any components. This can cause unintended damage and void the warranty, so any repairs you’d need as a result won’t be covered.
You may also miss signs of a potential problem. A professional has the experience and skills to find subtle signs of issues and safely make adjustments and small repairs that protect the health of your air conditioner.
However, you should complete simpler tasks in between tune-ups, such as:
- Check the filter every month and change it whenever necessary
- Clean the outdoor unit so it’s not obstructed by leaves or debris
- Trim nearby shrubs so there’s at least two feet of clearance on all sides
- Seal gaps around windows and doors
- Seal any gaps, holes, or loose connections in ductwork
These tasks can prevent excess strain on your AC and reduce energy consumption. For anything else, it’s best to hire a licensed HVAC contractor.
Schedule an AC Tune-Up with Call the Whale
Home and business owners in Vermont trust us for top-notch AC maintenance and other cooling services. Our experienced HVAC contractors are familiar with most makes and models of air conditioners, heat pumps, and ductless mini-split systems. They are committed to ensuring your cooling system is reliable and efficient throughout the summer. To learn more or book AC service, use our contact form or call today.
