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What is the difference between an AC Tune-up vs Maintenance

AC Tune-Up vs. Maintenance

It is important that you keep your home’s HVAC system in top shape. To do so, it is essential to understand the role of AC tune ups and maintenance services and their roles in keeping your AC in a reliable condition. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the significance of both of these services and explain the differences between the two. We will offer insight into the world of HVAC checkups to help you understand what to expect when receiving such a service. 

What is an AC Tune-Up?

The purpose of an AC tuneup is to ensure that your air conditioning unit is operating ultimately during the hot summer months. This process involves a comprehensive inspection and performance enhancement to address issues and prevent potential breakdowns. During a typical AC tuneup, a trained technician will do all of the following steps:

Inspect and Clean Air Filters

 crgfygfvt9mzawdgmkimyDirty and clogged filters can reduce airflow and the efficiency of the entire air conditioning system. Cleaning or replacing them is essential for maintaining indoor air quality and reducing energy consumption. Inspecting air filters is one of the hallmarks of a proper AC tuneup.

Check Refrigerant Levels 

The technician will ensure that your AC unit has the correct refrigerant levels. Low levels lead to decreased cooling performance and overall efficiency.

Examine Electrical Connections

The AC technician will also examine all the wires and connections of the HVAC system. Faulty wiring and loose connections can lead to system failure. Technicians will take the time to identify and fix any issues to improve the unit’s reliability.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Proper lubrication ensures that the units and moving parts work smoothly, reducing wear and tear.

Calibrate Thermostat

A properly calibrated thermostat helps maintain your desired indoor temperature accurately. Therefore, the AC technician will take the time to inspect the thermostat to ensure that it is set correctly and that the batteries are fresh and able to perform through the whole season if needed.

Clear and Clean Condenser Evaporator Coils

Dirty coils can reduce calling efficiency. The AC technician will take time to inspect them and clean them because this will help improve that unit’s overall performance and energy efficiency.

Inspect and Clean the Condensate Drain

There’s nothing worse than a clogged drain for an HVAC system. AC technicians take extra care to inspect this part of the air conditioning system, clearing it if necessary. Doing so will keep humidity levels at bay and ensure that your AC is working correctly. 

How Often Should You Have Your AC Serviced?

The frequency of AC, tune-ups, and maintenance depends on various factors, including the age of your HVAC system, local climate conditions, and usage. However, as HVAC professionals, we generally recommend that you schedule a professional HVAC tuneup at least once a year. Many homeowners do so in the spring to prepare their AC systems for the hot summer months. 

Seasonal HVAC Maintenance

In addition to annual AC tuneups, it’s essential to include seasonal HVAC maintenance in your home care routine. Seasonal HVAC maintenance typically involves both heating and cooling systems. This process ensures that your entire HVAC system operates optimally year-round.

When To Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Many homeowners are confused about when to schedule HVAC maintenance. In fact, with all the other responsibilities in your life, it can be even harder to remember to do so. Below is a brief breakdown of when you should schedule seasonal HVAC maintenance: 

  • Spring: to ensure that the air conditioning system is ready to keep you cool all summer long
  • Fall: make sure the heating system is in tip-top shape as you transition from cooling to heat in your home.
  • Regular checkups: we encourage you to consider occasional checkups to address specific concerns or evaluate the overall health of your HVAC system.

DIY HVAC Maintenance

Professional HVAC tuneups are extremely important, but there are some DIY tests that you should perform regularly to help maintain your system efficiency. These tasks include:

  • Changing or cleaning the air filters at least every 4 to 6 weeks
  • Keeping the area around the outdoor AC unit three from debris
  • Ensuring that the air vents and registers are unblocked
  • Monitoring your thermostat settings for energy-efficient operation

Top Notch AC Tune-Ups and Maintenance Services

Because AC tuneup set and maintenance services are extremely important, we encourage you to schedule your AC tuneup or maintenance visit today. Contact CM Heating and Cooling today to learn more about the service and to set up a visit with one of our professionally certified and seasoned experts.

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