AC Tune-Up and Furnace Tune-Up: The 24-Point Checklist That Prevents Breakdowns
By the technicians at Efficient Air Conditioning & Heating Repair · Updated 2026-08-23
The majority of emergency calls we run in July were visible problems in April: a bulging capacitor, a coil packed with cottonwood, a drain line half plugged. Maintenance isn't a subscription gimmick when it's done properly — here's what "properly" means.
Cooling season (spring) — 12 points
- Wash the condenser coil and clear 2 feet of space around the unit
- Measure capacitor microfarads against rated value
- Inspect contactor for pitting and arcing
- Test compressor and fan motor amp draw vs nameplate
- Check superheat and subcooling to verify refrigerant charge
- Measure temperature split across the evaporator coil
- Flush the condensate drain and test the float safety switch
- Inspect and replace the air filter; check return airflow
- Tighten electrical connections and check disconnect fusing
- Inspect line-set insulation and refrigerant line condition
- Calibrate and test the thermostat and staging
- Log readings so next year's numbers are comparable
Heating season (fall) — 12 points
- Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks and corrosion
- Clean the flame sensor and inspect the igniter
- Verify burner flame pattern and gas pressure
- Test all safeties: limit, rollout, pressure switch
- Inspect the flue and combustion air path
- Clean the inducer and blower wheel as needed
- Check condensate trap and neutralizer (high-efficiency units)
- Measure blower amp draw and temperature rise
- Verify CO levels in the flue and at the registers
- Test heat pump defrost and reversing valve (if applicable)
- Check auxiliary/emergency heat operation and lockout
- Confirm thermostat heat staging and setback schedule
Between visits — what you should do
Change filters every 1–3 months, keep 2 feet clear around the outdoor unit, pour a cup of warm water down the condensate cleanout monthly in cooling season, and never close more than about 20% of your registers.
Related reading: AC not blowing cold air, no heat troubleshooting, and AC repair cost. Book a tune-up in your city from the locations page or call (866) 652-0413.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should HVAC be serviced?
Twice a year is ideal — cooling in spring, heating in fall. Heat pumps that run year-round genuinely need both visits.
Does a tune-up lower my energy bill?
Yes. Clean coils, correct charge and proper airflow commonly recover 5–15% of lost efficiency, and prevent the failures that cost far more.
Is maintenance required to keep my warranty?
Most manufacturers require documented annual professional maintenance for parts warranty claims. We leave a written report you can file.
Do you offer maintenance plans?
Yes — plans include both seasonal visits, priority scheduling for emergency repairs, and repair discounts.