HVAC Tune-Up Checklist
May 2023
Maintaining a comfortable indoor environment throughout the year is important for both your personal comfort and your home's upkeep. A well-functioning HVAC system plays a vital role in achieving this. Poor HVAC care can lead to mold growth, poor air quality and frequent breakdowns. Regular maintenance is essential to sustaining performance and energy efficiency. Let’s take a look at what tune-ups include and why you should prioritize them.
How Often Should You Get an HVAC Tune-Up?
The general recommendation is to have a tune-up performed at least once a year. This helps maintain your system’s performance and minimizes the risk of needing heating and cooling repair. Ideally, schedule these tune-ups in the spring for cooling systems and in the fall for heating systems. Regular maintenance also prolongs the lifespan of your HVAC system, saving you money on energy bills and costly repairs in the long run.
A basic tune-up includes:
- Inspection and cleaning
- Thermostat testing and settings review
- Changing air filters
- Electrical connection tightening
- Cleaning the condensate drain
- Measuring refrigerant levels
- Checking controls
- Coil cleaning
- Repairs as needed
- Inspection and Cleaning
During a tune-up, a skilled, licensed technician will inspect and clean various components of your HVAC system. This includes checking the air filters, which are crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality and preventing dust and debris from accumulating in the system. Dirty filters reduce airflow and efficiency and put extra strain on the system, leading to potential breakdowns. The technician will either clean or replace the filters as necessary.
Thermostat Calibration and Testing
The thermostat acts as the control center for your HVAC system, regulating the temperature in your home. During a tune-up, the technician will calibrate and test your thermostat to ensure accurate temperature readings and system performance. Any issues or malfunctions with the thermostat will be identified and handled, ensuring your system reads the correct temperatures and comes on at the right time.
Coils and Condensate Drain
The evaporator and condenser coils in your HVAC system can accumulate dirt, dust and debris over time. These contaminants reduce the system's efficiency and can lead to freezing or overheating. As part of an HVAC tune-up, the technician will inspect and clean the coils to maintain their performance and check for damage. Additionally, the technician will inspect and clear out the condensate drain to prevent water damage.
Lubrication
The moving parts of your HVAC system, such as motors and bearings, require regular lubrication to reduce friction and prevent premature wear and tear. During a tune-up, the technician will apply lubrication to these components, ensuring smooth operation and extending the lifespan of your system. This simple step can significantly reduce the likelihood of unexpected heating and cooling repairs.
Electrical Connections and System Controls
Faulty electrical connections and system controls can lead to system malfunctions or even pose safety hazards. As part of an HVAC tune-up, the technician will inspect and tighten electrical connections, ensuring they are secure and functioning properly. They will also check system controls and safety switches, verifying their accuracy and responsiveness.
An HVAC tune-up is a complete maintenance service that helps your system operate efficiently and reliably. By sticking to a regular tune-up schedule, homeowners enjoy better energy efficiency, improved indoor air quality, and reduced chances of a breakdown. Don't underestimate the importance of proactive maintenance—call Werley today to learn more about our HVAC services.