What's Included in an AC Tune-Up?

By Affordable Air

An AC tune-up is one of the simplest ways to avoid a breakdown on the hottest day of the summer. But "tune-up" can mean very different things from one company to the next, from a quick look and a filter change to a thorough inspection of every major component.

Here’s what a real AC tune-up should include, why it’s worth doing every year in Southern Ohio, and what you can handle yourself between visits.

Why an annual AC tune-up matters

Your air conditioner works hard through Ohio’s humid summers, and small problems tend to build quietly until they cause a breakdown. A yearly tune-up helps in four ways:

• Fewer breakdowns. Weak capacitors, worn contactors and clogged drains get caught before they fail.
• Lower energy bills. Clean coils and correct refrigerant levels let the system cool efficiently.
• Longer system life. A well-maintained system lasts years longer than a neglected one.
• Warranty protection. Many manufacturer warranties expect regular professional maintenance.

The best time to schedule is spring, before the first heat wave, when HVAC companies aren’t yet slammed with emergency calls.

What’s included in an AC tune-up

A thorough tune-up covers both the outdoor unit and the indoor equipment.

Outdoor unit (condenser)

• Inspect and clean the condenser coil so the system can release heat efficiently.
• Clear debris such as leaves, grass and cottonwood from around and inside the cabinet.
• Test the capacitor(s), one of the most common failure points, against their rated values.
• Inspect the contactor for pitting or burning that can cause the unit to fail to start.
• Check electrical connections and tighten loose terminals.
• Inspect the condenser fan motor and blade for wear, balance and proper operation.
• Check the refrigerant charge by measuring system pressures and temperatures. Low refrigerant means a leak, which needs to be found and repaired.
• Check the compressor’s operation, including amperage draw.

Indoor unit (coil, blower and controls)

• Inspect the evaporator coil for dirt and signs of freezing.
• Check and flush the condensate drain line and pan. A clogged drain can overflow and cause water damage, or shut the system down.
• Inspect the blower motor and wheel and measure airflow.
• Replace or check the air filter.
• Test the thermostat for accurate temperature readings and proper cycling.
• Measure the temperature split between the return air and the supply air to confirm the system is cooling as it should.

Wrap-up

• A clear report on the system’s condition, anything that needs attention now, and anything to keep an eye on. A good technician explains findings in plain language and doesn’t pressure you into repairs you don’t need.

How often should you get an AC tune-up?

Once a year for a central air conditioner, ideally in the spring.

If you have a heat pump, it runs in both seasons, so plan on two tune-ups a year: one in spring for cooling and one in fall for heating. The same goes for ductless mini-splits that you use for heat.

What you can do between tune-ups

A few simple habits keep your system running well between professional visits:

• Change the air filter every one to three months during cooling season, more often with pets.
• Keep two feet of clearance around the outdoor unit. Trim shrubs and keep grass clippings and leaves away from the coil.
• Gently rinse the outside of the outdoor coil with a garden hose, with the power off. Never use a pressure washer.
• Keep supply vents and return grilles open and unblocked by furniture or rugs.
• Watch the condensate drain. If you notice water around the indoor unit, call for service.
• Pay attention to changes, such as new noises, weaker airflow or rising bills, and call sooner rather than later.

Anything involving refrigerant, electrical parts or opening the unit’s panels should be left to a licensed technician. Capacitors in particular hold a dangerous charge even with the power off.

Signs your AC needs service now, not later

Don’t wait for your scheduled tune-up if you notice:

• Warm air from the vents, or the AC is not cooling like it used to
• Ice on the refrigerant lines or indoor coil
• Water leaking around the indoor unit
• Buzzing, grinding or clanking noises
• The system short-cycles, turning on and off every few minutes
• A burning smell

Make tune-ups automatic with the Comfort Club

The easiest way to never miss a tune-up is a maintenance plan. Affordable Air’s Comfort Club includes:

• An annual A/C tune-up
• An annual furnace tune-up
• Free priority service
• 10% off repairs
• Special access to deals

Membership is $270 a year, and we’ll remind you when it’s time to schedule.

Frequently asked questions

How long does an AC tune-up take?

Most tune-ups take about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on the system and what the technician finds.

Is an AC tune-up worth it?

Yes. Catching a weak capacitor or a clogged drain during a tune-up costs far less than an emergency repair in July, and a well-maintained system uses less energy and lasts longer.

Will a tune-up fix a refrigerant leak?

No. A tune-up checks the refrigerant level. If it’s low, there’s a leak, and finding and repairing it is a separate repair.

When should I schedule an AC tune-up?

Spring is ideal, before temperatures climb and HVAC schedules fill up.

Schedule your AC tune-up in Chillicothe

Affordable Air has kept air conditioners running across Chillicothe and Southern Ohio since 2006. Book a tune-up, or join the Comfort Club and let us keep track of it for you.

Call (740) 779-0079 or request service online.