What a Technician Does for a Tune-Up

March 15, 2018

Tune-ups, also known as preventive maintenance, are a cost-effective way to keep your Little Rock, AR, heating and cooling units in tip-top shape. Many manufacturers require seasonal maintenance to keep warranties valid. The air conditioner should be serviced in the spring before first use, and the heating system should be serviced before turning it on in the fall.

Almost half of the energy used in U.S. households goes to heating and cooling. Keeping an HVAC system running efficiently saves fuel and reduces the amount you pay on utility bills. Tune-ups help a system run efficiently, which reduces fuel use. Preventive maintenance also prolongs the life of the system and reduces the occurrence of breakdowns.

Elements of a Tune-Up

A professional HVAC contractor examines, cleans and calibrates each element of the system to make sure the unit performs properly. These contractors will:

Check electrical contacts, wiring and voltage
Oil moving parts
Check belts
Clean drip pan and tubing
Check furnace plenum and housing
Calibrate thermostat
Inspect and clean coils
Ensure unit cycles properly
Inspect and clean burners, starters and connections on gas, propane and oil heating equipment
Check for dangerous gases

In addition, technicians also check the following elements that can have a dramatic effect on performance and comfort.

Check Refrigerant

Improperly charged refrigerant levels can reduce efficiency by up to 20 percent and damage your unit. The compressor can overheat or frost can build up on components, which may cause the unit to stop cooling. Our technicians make sure refrigerant levels are correct so that the unit functions efficiently.

Examine Ducts

Approximately 25 percent of conditioned air can be lost through leaking ducts. HVAC efficiency can be improved by at least 20 percent by sealing and insulating ducts. Sealing ducts also keeps airborne pollutants from entering the system through holes and poor joins.

Clean Air Filter

The Department of Energy estimates that changing a dirty air filter can reduce the unit’s energy consumption up to 15 percent. Clean air flowing freely over coils allows the compressor to work efficiently.

For more information about how a tune-up can save money on utility bills and increase indoor comfort, call Freyaldenhoven Heating and Cooling.