What do I need to know about my AC maintenance.
Practically, this is one of the more complicated systems in your home.
A comprehensive maintenance visit typically includes:
Cleaning coils and condensate drain
Checking refrigerant levels
Inspecting electrical components
Testing system performance
Replacing or cleaning filters
Lubricating moving parts
Higher efficiency often requires more troubleshooting knowledge, even to maintain properly.
A system can be inspected in an hour, but proper maintenance often requires 2-3 hours from an experienced technician. There are different levels of maintenance depending on your desires and tolerance for risk.
Not all companies stock air filters because of the vast variety, so if you want to save a couple dollars and have a healthier system, buy and replace yours at least once per operating season.
Beware of companies sending apprentices with little knowledge on their own for maintenance calls. Remember, all experienced techs were once young too, we ensure our apprentices have a wonderful support system, receive training, and are qualified to work on your systems.
A basic parts count may look like
🔢 Total Component Estimate
Type of Count
Approximate Number
Major Mechanical Parts
10–15
Electrical Components
15–20
Support Components
10–20
Total
40–60 parts
If counting every individual fastener, sensor, capacitor, wire, and bracket, the total may exceed 100 items in a full system install.
Your air conditioner should be cleaned once per year. Just like your furnace