Could Your AC Unit Use a Tune Up? How Often Should Your AC Unit Be Serviced by a Professional?

Oct 26, 2022 | HVAC Maintenance

HVAC technician performing AC unit tune up

Have you ever given any thought to how often your AC unit should be serviced? By keeping your system running efficiently with an AC unit tune up, you’ll be able to avoid costly repairs while simultaneously prolonging the life of your unit. We’ll discuss what the lifespan of an AC unit looks like, how often it should be serviced, what’s included in an AC unit tune up, and a few tips for keeping your unit running like new!

What’s the Lifespan of a Residential AC Unit?

The lifespan of a residential AC unit is typically around 15-20 years. However, with proper maintenance and care, your AC unit can last even longer! AC units that aren’t properly maintained are more likely to break down and will need to be replaced sooner than those that are well-cared for.

How Often Should Your Residential AC Unit Be Tuned Up?

Experts agree that you should have your HVAC system serviced at least twice each year. You should schedule your air conditioning tune up at the end of spring and fall. As a homeowner, you want to have your tune up performed before the heat of summer and the cold winter weather. AC units tend to give out when you put them under the most stress. The last thing you want is for your AC to malfunction in the heat of summer or right before your upcoming holiday party. 

You should keep up with these check-ups, especially if you have high-risk family members. It’s dangerous to subject an infant or elderly person to extreme temperatures.

What’s Included in an AC Unit Tune Up?

An AC system tune up should be performed by a qualified HVAC professional. During the tune up, the technician will:

  • Clean the AC unit’s coils and evaporator
  • Lubricate all moving parts
  • Check Freon levels and recharge if necessary
  • Inspect electrical connections and tighten them if necessary
  • Clean the AC unit’s condensate drain
  • Inspect the AC unit’s blower belt and replace if necessary
  • Test the AC unit for proper operation

A Few Tips for Keeping Your AC Unit Running Efficiently:

In between AC unit tune ups, there are a few things you can do to keep your unit running efficiently.

  1. Be sure to change your AC unit’s filter regularly – at least once every three months. A dirty air filter will make your AC unit work harder and can lead to premature breakdowns.
  2. Keep your AC unit’s coils clean by brushing them gently with a soft brush.
  3. Trim any trees or shrubs that are close to your AC unit – this will help to keep your AC unit from working overtime.

By following these simple tips, you can help to prolong the life of your AC unit and avoid costly repairs.

Contact The Team At Shriver Mechanical to Schedule Your Fall Tune Up

AC unit tune ups are an important part of maintaining your home’s air regularity and ensuring that your system runs efficiently for years to come! If you have any questions about AC tune ups or would like to schedule your fall maintenance, contact Shriver Mechanical today! Our team of qualified HVAC technicians are happy to help you keep your AC unit running like new.