As a homeowner, you know that specific maintenance tasks must be performed regularly to keep your home in good condition. One of those tasks is having your air conditioner tuned up each year. But how much does an air conditioner tune-up cost? Read on to find out.
What is the Average AC Tune-Up Cost?
On average, an AC tune-up costs between $75 and $200. The type of AC unit you have and the location of your home can affect the cost of a tune-up. For example, central air conditioning units are typically more expensive than window units. Additionally, homeowners in areas with hot climates may have to pay more for a tune-up because their AC units work harder to keep their homes cool.
So, is an AC tune-up worth the cost? For most homeowners, the answer is yes. An annual tune-up can help extend the life of your AC unit and improve its efficiency. A tuned-up AC unit can also help you save money on your energy bills. If you’re worried about the cost of a tune-up, many HVAC companies offer discounts on AC maintenance plans that include regular tune-ups.
However, you can do a few things to keep costs down. For example, many companies offer discounts if you sign up for a yearly maintenance plan. And some manufacturers even offer extended warranties that cover the cost of tune-ups. Of course, the best way to save money on air conditioner maintenance is to perform some basic tasks yourself. Changing the air filter and cleaning the coils are easy enough for most homeowners to do on their own.
What’s Included in an AC Tune-Up?
Most AC tune-ups will include a thorough cleaning of the unit, a safety check, and a performance test. The technician will also inspect the filters, blower, and coils and make sure that all electrical connections are secure. The technician may sometimes lubricate the moving parts or refill the Freon levels.
AC Unit Cleaning
The first step in any AC tune-up is to clean the unit. It involves removing the outer casing and using a brush attachment on a shop vac to remove any leaves, dirt, or debris accumulated over the past year. The technician will also clean the coils with a particular coil cleaning solution. This solution dissolves any dirt or grime so the coils can function correctly.
AC Unit Safety Check
After the unit has been cleaned, the technician will perform a safety check. It involves checking all electrical connections to ensure they are secure and testing the thermostat to ensure it is working correctly. The technician will also inspect the condensate drain to ensure it is clear and free of any blockages.
AC Unit Performance Test
Once the unit has been cleaned and inspected for safety, the technician will conduct a performance test. It will involve turning on the AC unit and measuring various factors such as airflow, temperature differential, Freon levels, and amperage draw. The results of this test will help identify any areas that need to be adjusted or repaired.
When Should You Get AC Tune-Up Service?
Most HVAC companies recommend having your air conditioner tuned up once a year, typically in the spring. AC units work hard during the summer months to keep your home cool, so it’s vital to ensure they run efficiently. However, if you live in an area with a mild climate, you may be able to get by having your AC unit tuned up every other year.
If you notice that your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home as well as it used to, it’s a good idea to call for a tune-up sooner rather than later. Additionally, if your energy bills have been skyrocketing, even if you don’t use your AC system any more than usual, that’s another sign that it’s time for a tune-up.
Conclusion
An air conditioner tune-up is a worthwhile investment for most homeowners. Overall, an air conditioner tune-up costs between $75 and $200. The price you’ll pay for a tune-up depends on factors like the type of AC unit you have and where you live.
A tune-up can help improve the efficiency of your AC unit and extend its lifespan. And, if you sign up for a maintenance plan, many companies will offer discounts on the cost of tune-ups. Of course, you can also save money by performing basic air conditioner maintenance tasks, such as changing the air filter and cleaning the coils.
