HVAC Tune Up Checklist: What Does HVAC Tune Up Include?

HVAC tune up checklist what does HVAC tune up include


Jake Smith, Online Marketing Strategist
Technically Reviewed by Jake Smith, Online Marketing Strategist on Mar 15, 2024 | Written by Alpha Mechanical Editorial Contributors

Whether the season ahead is filled with pollen or overnight freezes, skyrocketing temperatures or gunky moist leaves it may be time for a routine HVAC tune-up. No matter what season we are approaching, with regular maintenance you can prevent small problems from turning into greater, more expensive problems including higher energy costs. Whether it’s your air conditioner, heat pump, furnace or boiler, they all need regular maintenance.

There are a few indicators that could be a tall tale sign that it is time for HVAC checkup maintenance. Strange noises, inconsistent airflow, unusual smells and rooms that do not reach the set temperature for that room or the house are a list of the few HVAC issues that give the homeowner the signs that something needs to be inspected and cleaned. These are all signs that your unit is in need of HVAC optimization.

You may feel like it’s an excessive expense, especially if you recently invested in the residential or commercial HVAC replacement cost; however, the difference between the cost of upkeeping multiple components or a whole AC unit is substantial. Preventive maintenance is an investment in your overall comfort and keeps your electric bill down year-round. In this blog we will cover the benefits of HVAC health checks, a complete HVAC tune-up checklist and its significance to your air conditioning system’s long-term usage. We’ll also go over the air conditioner tune-up checklist and all that it entails.

What is an HVAC Tune-Up?

A pre-season HVAC system checkup or tune-up is when a certified technician assesses your HVAC structure to correct any issues as well as test and clean the existing equipment for optimal functioning. This process includes bringing any problems to your attention and proposing part replacements and repairs to restore your HVAC system. A physical inspection on your indoor and outdoor units will take place to tighten, clean and test all the facets.

The Benefits of an HVAC Tune-Up

✔   Aids in extending the lifespan of your HVAC system

✔   Enhance the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling equipment

✔   Reduces energy costs

✔   Improve the performance of your system for ideal indoor comfort

✔   Repair any minor hiccups to avoid expensive breakdowns during peak seasons

✔   Ensure the safety of your HVAC system

✔   Receive professional advice about your equipment or other enhancements

✔   Improve indoor air quality

✔   Peace of mind

Air conditioners and heating units need semi-annual tune-ups and seasonal HVAC maintenance in the milder seasons before winter and a heat wave to ensure they work properly during those peak months. Don’t get left out without indoor comfort during summer and winter; it can do a harm to your budget. All that a heating and cooling tune up checklist include will ease your mind and gear your units up for keeping you comfortable. Next we will cover what is involved in an HVAC tune-up.

HVAC Tune-Up Checklist:
What to Expect from an HVAC Tune-Up?

What does HVAC tune-up consist of?

It is important to know what to expect once your hired HVAC tech professional arrives at your home and begins to tinker with one of the most expensive home investments you have.

You depend on your heating and air conditioning units to function at their utmost efficiency leaving you feeling comfortable all year round.The air you breathe is a vital part of making your house a home therefore when HVAC issues come up, it is crucial to regularly complete an HVAC checkup.

It is important to highlight the differences on the cooling and heating tune-up checklist because of the variation of the seasons, especially here in Sacramento as our seasons can sometimes be unpredictable.

Following an air conditioning tune-up checklist is essential to guarantee all parts are examined and cared for during a tune-up.

Basic Core Checklist

Here are the specific general HVAC equipment tune-up examinations performed to ensure proper operation:

  • Test for carbon monoxide leaks
  • Clean the burners
  • Clean the ignition assembly
  • Clean and adjust the blower motor and components
  • Inspect the filtration system
  • Inspect and/or change the air filter
  • Lubricate all moving parts
  • Test and adjust safety controls
  • Calibrate the thermostat
  • Check the flue draft
  • Check combustion
  • Inspect all vent pipes
  • Inspect the humidification system

AC Units Checklist

Here are the specifics of the AC tune-up checklist:

  • Clean the condenser coil
  • Survey the evaporator coil
  • Clean the condensate drain
  • Clean and adjust blower motor
  • Inspect the filtration system
  • Change the air filter
  • Adjust the blower components
  • Lubricate all moving parts
  • Inspect for refrigerant leaks and refill levels as needed
  • Test the condensate pump
  • Measure the air temperature differential
  • Monitor the refrigerant pressure

Furnace Checklist

Here are the specific Furnace and Heat Pump Tune-up Checklist:

  • Clean the condenser coil and drain
  • Check the defrost controls
  • Inspect the auxiliary heaters
  • Inspect the filtration system
  • Change the air filter
  • Lubricate all moving parts
  • Adjust refrigerant levels and repair leaks
  • Test the condensate pump
  • Measure the air temperature differentials
  • Monitor the refrigerant pressure

Electrical Checklist

Here is the specific HVAC electrical checklist:

  • Checking electrical wiring for ratings and connection
  • Monitor the amperage and voltage
  • Tightening any electrical connections
  • Test the units emergency shut off and start up capacities

Furnace Checklist

Here are the specific Furnace and Heat Pump Tune-up Checklist:

    Clean the condenser coil and drain

  • Check the defrost controls
  • Inspect the auxiliary heaters
  • Inspect the filtration system
  • Change the air filter
  • Lubricate all moving parts
  • Adjust refrigerant levels and repair leaks
  • Test the condensate pump
  • Measure the air temperature differentials
  • Monitor the refrigerant pressure

Electrical Checklist

Here is the specific HVAC electrical checklist:

  • Checking electrical wiring for ratings and connection
  • Monitor the amperage and voltage
  • Tightening any electrical connections
  • Test the units emergency shut off and start up capacities

When compiling an HVAC tune up checklist it is necessary to touch every part accessible to ensure that everything is working the way that it was intended to. HVAC maintenance is a big part of the process of keeping a thriving system that brings you healthy air.

Looking for AC and heating tune-up in Sacramento?

When to get an HVAC Tune-Up?

As far as an HVAC tune up timeline we recommend scheduling an HVAC system tune–up twice a year, once during the spring season and once during the fall. Servicing your HVAC units is often an overlooked part of regular home maintenance; however, with every hot and cold season your system works harder, stressing the system out with premature wear and tear.

In the Sacramento, CA area air conditioners typically require more repair and annual care. Many warranties and manufacturers require an annual maintenance plan in order to remain active as part of their warranty agreement. Check out our services area to see if you are located in the region that we serve.

 Now that you understand why you need pre-season HVAC tune-up, just call Alpha Mechanical to get the care your system needs!

Final Thoughts

We have compiled a checklist and broke down each category by which unit needs to be inspected during an HVAC checkup. Key components of an HVAC tune-up consist of a complete assessment of your furnace and central air conditioner system by checking every moving part. If a technician sees anything out of order, they’ll adjust it and bring it to your attention using their HVAC performance tune-up checklist. It may turn out that you need a replacement or air conditioning repair in Sacramento, and we’ve got you taken care of. Alpha Mechanical has your tune-up, repair, replacement and installation services covered in the Sacramento, California region.

Call a HVAC company you can trust to give your quality, consistent help and meet all of your HVAC needs. We will schedule your appointment when it’s due, complete the performance tune-up, and give you other great savings throughout the year including AC installation and replacement in Sacramento. It is crucial to schedule to check off all the boxes on the heating and cooling tune-up checklist twice a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost for an AC tune-up in the Sacramento area?

The cost for an HVAC checkup varies depending on the equipment you have in the property. How many systems you have, and the type of maintenance your looking for. If you choose to become a club member you can save 15%  on repairs!

How long does AC and heating tune-up take?

AC and heating tune-up usually takes up to 30 minutes. The time and length can vary depending on the complexity of your unit. In order to take the best care of your system, the duration of the tune-up could vary up to one hour.

Learn more about AC and heating tune-up in Sacramento!

How frequently do I need a tune-up on my HVAC unit?

We recommend twice a year for seasonal tune-up before it gets too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter as each season can hinder the performance of your unit. In Sacramento the months are between Oct and Nov, and March and April.

Learn more about HVAC tune-up in Sacramento!

Why do I need a pre-season HVAC tune-up?

A pre-season HVAC tune-up is necessary to ensure that your heating and cooling system is in good working condition before the extreme temperatures of summer or winter. Proper HVAC inspections can prevent unexpected breakdowns, keep your home comfortable, and can identify and fix any potential issues before they become major problems, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

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