Ultimately, the decision on whether — or how often — to have your unit inspected is up to the homeowner. Experts say that even small tweaks to an air conditioner can increase efficiency by 10 to 15 percent. Skipping an inspection may mean higher utility bills. And on the heating side, a checkup could save your life.
HVAC inspections are a good way to spend a little money now to avoid a costly repair bill later. You'll generally pay between $200 and $500 for an inspection, depending on your specific type of HVAC system. We recommend an inspection twice per year.
HVAC maintenance should be done by a professional twice per year to keep it operating effectively and efficiently. This not only helps you stay cooler and comfortable in your home, it also reduces your energy costs.
Heating and Air Conditioning equipment, no matter what kind you have, should be inspected, cleaned, and serviced at least once a year. The best scenario is to have the heating system checked in the Fall and the air conditioning checked in the Spring.
An HVAC tune-up generally consists of the following:
Checking the blower belt and the power motor. Checking carbon monoxide levels. Adjusting refrigerant levels. Checking for wear.
A full HVAC inspection costs $300 on average but can range from $150 to $500. Depending on the size of the HVAC system, it usually takes at least an hour for a contractor to conduct an inspection, after which time they'll recommend repairs if needed.
While an annual plan is often recommended, HVAC systems in highly volatile regions should consider more frequent servicing and repair schedules from our team. The bottom line is that the HVAC system should not operate for years without a careful assessment of its efficiency.
Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.
Just like any other HVAC system, air ducts require regular maintenance to ensure maximum efficiency. As a general rule of thumb, the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends air duct cleaning every 3 to 5 years. With certain methods, that cleaning recommendation can be extended to 6 to 8 years.
Why Choose a Comprehensive HVAC Tune-Up? While inspections might catch problems, regularly scheduled comprehensive tune-ups go a step further. Tune-ups prevent potential issues by keeping your equipment in good working condition and if issues are found, addressing them right away.
It is generally recommended to service your AC at least once per year, ideally in the spring. If your AC unit is 10 years or older, consider scheduling twice-yearly inspections to catch potential problems early and extend the system's lifespan, which is typically around 15 years.
The average cost of an HVAC service call is about $100 to $250, depending on the problem. The total hourly rate for an HVAC technician ranges from $65 to $150+ per hour, with additional parts costing anywhere from $40 to over $1000.
The compressor is the most expensive component to replace in an AC unit, and it can cost up to $4,000. It's expensive for two major reasons. First, it's responsible for circulating the refrigerant between the evaporator and condenser coils. Secondly, it's a highly complex equipment with intricate details.
First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.
On average, HVAC maintenance appointments take 1-2 hours to complete. Your appointment may take more or less time than this. How long appointments last varies quite a bit depending on the type of system you have, the condition it's in, the size of your home, and more.
Regular HVAC inspections and maintenance ensure your system runs efficiently and experiences less wear and tear over time. This expanded lifespan means you won't have to invest in a new HVAC system prematurely, saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in early replacement costs.
You should schedule an air conditioner tune up at least once a year. Ideally, schedule a professional tune-up in the spring before the peak cooling season begins.
Preventive Maintenance Checklist for Your HVAC System
Replace all of your unit's filters. Check the outside unit, clear any debris, and ensure the cabinet door is closed. Check the cabinet for leaks. To ensure proper airflow, clear any clogs in the drain lines.
However, an AC tune-up can cost between $70 and $250 depending on a unit's age, condition, and other factors. Many HVAC maintenance contracts include two annual visits and range from $150 to $350 for basic services. Otherwise, scheduling one-off service visits can cost much more.