Routine HVAC maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your heating and cooling system running efficiently year-round in Silverdale, WA. An HVAC tune-up is designed to maintain your heating and cooling system by inspecting and cleaning components for improved performance.
Curious about what an HVAC tune-up includes? We’re going to share what tasks an HVAC tune-up includes and why it's worth scheduling.
What Is an HVAC Tune-Up?
An HVAC tune-up is a comprehensive inspection, cleaning, and performance check performed by a licensed technician. HVAC tune-ups are part of routine maintenance for your heating and cooling system.
A professional HVAC technician will inspect:
- ACs
- Furnaces
- Heat pumps
- Mini splits
- Package systems
HVAC tune-ups help you stay ahead of potential issues and save money on emergency repairs.
Is an HVAC Tune-Up Worth It?
Yes, an HVAC tune-up is well worth the cost. A tune-up reduces breakdown risks, keeps the system running efficiently, and decreases electric bills.
- Reduces breakdown risks: By inspecting components for wear and tear and other mechanical problems, you can catch issues early to prevent them from getting worse. This means you reduce the risk of system failure over time.
- Keeps the system running efficiently: HVAC maintenance helps promote efficient operation by lubricating parts, recharging refrigerant, and cleaning components.
- Decreases electric bills: Since tune-ups help improve efficiency, they also help decrease monthly electric costs for homeowners.
The bottom line is that HVAC tune-ups are a cost-effective way to extend the lifespan of your system and keep your home comfortable year-round.
Components Serviced During a Service Call
So, which components are serviced during an HVAC tune-up? Tune-up service visits are comprehensive, and technicians will inspect a wide variety of components.
Thermostat
An HVAC technician will verify that your thermostat properly reads indoor temperatures and effectively communicates with your heating and cooling system. If your thermostat is outdated or unresponsive, they may recommend upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to improve energy efficiency.
Electrical System
Often, HVAC failures are due to faulty electrical components. A technician will inspect your system for faulty wiring and loose connections, then test capacitors and contactors to make sure the electrical system is operating safely.
Cleaning HVAC Components
An HVAC technician will inspect components, like the evaporator coil, condenser coil, and blower assembly for dust and debris buildup. When these parts are dirty, system efficiency suffers and unnecessary strain is placed on the system. Cleaning dirty components restores proper heat transfer and airflow.
Cleaning or Replacing Air Filters
Clogged air filters reduce airflow and indoor air quality. A technician will inspect your air filters and change or clean them to promote proper airflow. Heavily clogged filters cause HVAC systems to overwork, leading to higher energy costs and premature wear and tear on components.
Checking Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is essential for effective cooling. When refrigerant levels are low or you have a leak, you may notice warm air blowing from your AC. A technician will inspect the refrigerant levels, look for signs of leaks, and recharge the refrigerant if necessary.
Lubricating Parts
Moving parts, including motors, fans, and bearings, require lubrication to run smoothly. Without proper lubrication, friction builds up and components wear out faster. During a tune-up, an HVAC technician will lubricate the necessary moving parts to extend the life of your system.
Ensuring Drain Lines Aren’t Clogged
As your air conditioner cools the air, it also removes humidity from air, and the moisture drains through the condensate drain line. Algae, mold, and debris can build up and cause blockages in drain lines over time, leading to water damage or an automatic system shutdown. A technician will flush and clear the drain line to prevent clogs.
Testing the System
Once all maintenance tasks are complete, the HVAC technician will run your system through an operational test. This includes cycling through heating and cooling modes, checking for proper airflow, and confirming that safety controls are functioning.
When Should I Schedule a Tune-up?
It is recommended to schedule two HVAC tune-ups per year: one in the spring and one in the fall. The spring tune-up ensures your AC is ready for increased cooling demand during the warm summer months. The fall visit helps prepare your furnace for heating during the winter months.
Scheduling two tune-ups helps prevent unexpected breakdowns during operation and keeps your home and family comfortable.
Mercurio’s offers HVAC maintenance plans to help you save money on routine maintenance. Contact us for more information.
Contact Us Today
Whether you need AC maintenance or furnace maintenance, Mercurio’s skilled HVAC technicians can help. If you live in Silverdale or Tacoma, WA, and need an HVAC tune-up, give us a call at (360) 499-2980 or schedule online!
