Is annual air conditioning service really necessary? It’s a question many homeowners ponder, often assuming their A/C is in top shape just because it appears to be functioning smoothly. However, in the scorching Texas heat, where your air conditioner operates tirelessly, taking the performance for granted can be a costly mistake. Overlooking regular A/C service doesn’t just increase the risk of unexpected breakdowns; it can even jeopardize your appliance’s warranty. In this blog post, we’ll explore why A/C tune-ups are indispensable in maintaining your comfort, your wallet, and your peace of mind.
Common HVAC Questions
What are the Benefits of an A/C Tune-Up?
What Does an A/C Tune-Up Include?
An air conditioning tune-up by a reputable HVAC company should include a thorough examination of the exterior and interior AC units. At Radiant Plumbing and Air, we conduct a full visual inspection, detailed cleaning, and necessary testing. We’ll even perform your air conditioning repairs if need be! Here’s what you can expect from one of our A/C tune-ups:
- Air filter check
- Check blower wheel balance and motion
- Tighten blower mounts and set screws
- Check that wire connections are tight and insulation is intact
- Check blower and motor amperage
- Visually inspect inside air handler (if easily accessible)
- Confirm operational output temperature for split indoor coil
- Visually inspect drain and coil, making sure they’re not damaged and free of major obstruction
- Visually inspect interior coil condenser (if easily accessible)
- Confirm electrical wiring, connectors, and insulation are all intact
- Check amperage draw on condenser fan motor is within specifications
- Check amperage draw on condenser fan motor is within specifications
- Inspect for evidence of leaks near lineset and connections
- Check refrigerant levels are within specifications
By the end of your service, your air conditioner will look and work like it’s brand new. You won’t have to worry about having it break down in the middle of the summer.
How Often Should I Tune-Up My A/C?
A professional heating and cooling technician should service your air conditioner at least once a year, even if your A/C doesn’t exhibit any major problems. The point of an A/C tune-up is to address the wear and tear it has suffered since its last service. Repairing small problems now will help your A/C run smoothly come summertime, lower your cooling costs, and avoid extensive future damages. We recommend scheduling your A/C tune-up in the spring — right before your air conditioner kicks into high gear.
How Long Does an A/C Tune-Up Take?
If the HVAC company you’ve hired is advertising a 15- to 20-minute tune-up, they’re not taking the time to perform a full inspection. A thorough A/C service should last about an hour, provided the air conditioner doesn’t require any extra repairs. Each repair will require additional time to complete.
Our service area is growing across Central Texas. In Austin, our service area spans from Kyle to Georgetown, as far East as Pflugerville, and as far West as Leander. When you’re in the middle of a plumbing emergency, rest assured, you’re never far from a Radiant truck. The same goes for A/C troubles in the middle of summer. Relief from an expert Radiant technician is just a phone call away.
In San Antonio, our service area is just as vast. Our coverage spans from as far South as Somerset, to as far North as Timberwood Park, and everywhere in between. In recent years, we’ve been able to expand further into New Braunfels and San Marcos. Serving our local communities is our top priority. As Texas continues to grow, so does our service area!
