What Does an AC Tune-Up Include?

An AC tune-up can help prevent future issues and make your system run more efficiently. Ocala, FL, residents can work with an expert HVAC technician by calling Fast Air Repair at 352-290-7968!

Before those humid, hot summers, you should have a team of technicians service your heating and cooling system. Many homeowners ask, "What does an AC tune-up include, and why is it so important?"

It's not uncommon for homeowners to only call an HVAC repair service when their system suffers from specific problems. This blog will discuss the main benefits of an AC tune-up and what homeowners can expect from Ocala's expert AC maintenance from Fast Air Repair. 

Why An AC Tune-Up Is So Crucial

Regularly tuning up your AC system provides many benefits, such as: 

Better Indoor Air Quality 

Your AC system doesn't just pump out cold air; it can also boost your home's indoor air quality. Many homes have poorer air quality than the outside, and homeowners constantly struggle to deal with pollutants like: 

• Dead skin cells 
• Bacteria and viruses
• Food particles 
• Smoke 
• Mold spores
• Dust mites
• Pet dander and hair

Your AC system's air filter captures these pollutants, but without regular cleaning or replacements, your filter can't catch everything. These pollutants can then recirculate, lowering your home's indoor air quality while damaging crucial parts like condenser coils. 

Many homeowners can handle replacing or cleaning their air filters, but tuning up your entire system increases its ability to handle nasty contaminants. Better indoor air quality directly translates into cleaner air, less system wear and tear, and lower energy bills. 

You Can Catch Problems Early On

When asking, "What does an AC tune-up include?" it's important to note that a tune-up isn't a magical solution that can resolve every problem. 

While preventive maintenance can't resolve every problem, it can catch minor issues before they escalate into expensive financial concerns. 

The main benefit of regular tune-ups is that they prevent future issues. Unless you're a qualified technician, it's easy to overlook less noticeable concerns. Some common signs you need a tune-up or repair can include: 

• You have higher energy bills than usual.
• Your AC unit frequently turns on and off. 
• Your home's indoor temperature or humidity is higher than outside. 
• You're noticing less airflow than usual, or your AC unit only blows hot air. 

These signs mean you should call an HVAC technician immediately. However, many of these issues require specific repairs, while a tune-up can prevent these problems from occurring in the first place. 

Greater Energy-Efficiency and Performance

Your AC unit is a machine, just like a car or computer, and it works better with frequent maintenance. Regular tune-up sessions mean your system's parts function as they should, resulting in better performance and energy efficiency. 

With a tune-up, your AC system doesn't have to work as hard to cool your home. This performance boost means lower energy bills and a longer lifespan for your system. 

While frequent maintenance is an investment, most homeowners save money in the long run. Their system will last for a few more years, helping them avoid expensive repairs or replacements. 

Warranty Compliance

Every HVAC system and its warranty will come with stipulations. Major AC unit manufacturers require annual maintenance, and failure to produce this proof can result in denied warranty coverage. 

Not being compliant with your AC unit's warranty can result in negative consequences. For example, if your system breaks down, you may need to pay for a repair completely out-of-pocket versus having at least some of the repairs covered under warranty. 

What Does a Typical Tune-Up Session Include? 

Your technician may perform different activities depending on your AC system's needs. However, when asking, "What does an AC tune-up include?" you can expect the following tasks: 

• Lubricating every system moving part
• A thorough inspection testing that every control or part is properly operating
• Recording operating pressures, installing gauges, and comparing functions like temperatures to the system's manufacturer's recommendations
• Inspecting your system's refrigerant levels and replacing refrigerant if needed
• Inspecting your start and run capacitors, checking for leaks, bulges, or rust
• Your technician safety testing every connection and tightening the connections if needed
• Adjusting and cleaning your thermostat
• Examining your air filter and cleaning or replacing it
• Flushing your condensate drain, preventing overflow
• Cleaning your system's condenser coil
• Checking for worn-out bearings while measuring voltage in every motor

After performing these actions, a technician provides a detailed report. A technician may also recommend repairs for another day. However, you should always obtain a free estimate before agreeing to future actions. 

When's the Best Time to Undergo a System Tune-Up? 

Depending on your system's needs, it might be smart to undergo a tune-up twice a year. For example, most business owners have a team inspect their AC unit once before summer and again after summer. 

Most homeowners, however, only require annual maintenance, and the best time is in spring, right before summer. Summer is the most demanding season for your AC unit, as it'll perform the most during this period. 

What Are Some Ways Homeowners Can Maintain Their Systems Themselves? 

Ocala, FL, homeowners can undertake some actions to better maintain their systems. 

Checking your air filter at least once a month and cleaning or replacing it as needed is the first step. Homeowners can also keep their condenser coil free of any obstructions and regularly clean their evaporator coil. 

Can I Handle Maintenance Myself or Call an Unlicensed Contractor? 

It's best to hire a professional crew to handle your AC unit's preventative maintenance and tune-ups. Besides not having the proper tools or experience to manage a tune-up, you can risk voiding your system's warranty. 

For Expert Assistance, Call Fast Air Repair Today 

Homeowners asking, "What does an AC tune-up include?" can have this and many other questions answered when they work with our Fast Air Repair crew. We're happy to serve Ocala, FL, and its surrounding areas. 

Ocala, FL, residents can learn more about our AC repair service by calling Fast Air Repair at 352-290-7968!