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How Much Does an Air Conditioner Tune-up Cost?
While most home repairs cause a sigh of exasperation, some are necessary. Air conditioners that perform well provide us with a comfortable home and good indoor air quality.
Routine air conditioner maintenance and tune-ups are important. They can cost anywhere from $50-$150, depending on the HVAC technician; however, yearly maintenance plans often bring this cost down. Scheduling annual tune-ups can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Why is it important to have your air conditioner tuned up?
To make application of the old phrase, “you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone,” the average homeowner doesn’t think much of their air conditioner until it stops working. A faulty AC unit in the hot summer months is less than pleasant, which is why routine maintenance is so important. Having your air conditioner tuned up on an annual basis can prevent unexpected breakdowns as well as protect you from the hot and sticky repair period
Additionally, investing a small amount of money each year to keep your air conditioner properly maintained saves you from the larger bill of an air conditioner replacement. Think of it in terms of insurance; by paying a set amount on a predetermined basis, you are protecting yourself from major unexpected costs down the line. Air conditioner maintenance is necessary!
What should be included in an air conditioner tune-up?
Protocol might vary from company to company, but generally speaking, a standard air conditioner tune-up should include the following:
- Filter replacement (or cleaning)
- Examination of evaporator and condenser coils
- Search for blocked airflow
- Examination of condensate drains
- Search for duct leakage
- Check of refrigerant levels
- Testing of all electrical loads, controls, and safeties
- Verification that temperature differentials are in range
- Examination of thermostat accuracy
How often should you have your air conditioner tuned up?
If your air conditioner functions normally, you should have it tuned up by a professional once a year. However, if you notice any strange smells, sounds, or if your AC unit seems to be operating less than efficiently, don’t wait for the year to wrap up. Call a professional as soon as you can.
Taking the time to have your air conditioner tuned up every year is beneficial to your home, your health, and your indoor air quality. It also protects your AC unit from long-term damage and ultimately saves you money.
