Important HVAC Tune-Up Procedures

The life expectancy of an HVAC system can range generally from 12 to 15 years. However, this can vary even more just depending on the usage of the system and more importantly the care and maintenance that it received.

Having an HVAC tune-up can help to prolong the lifespan of an HVAC system and ensure that it is always running properly and keep your home or business nice and cool. This simple service can help to alleviate a ton of headaches from dealing with HVAC repairs and HVAC replacements.

Today we are going to discuss what you should know about HVAC tune-up procedures, what it entails, what it costs, and more. Let's get started.

What is an HVAC Tune Up

An HVAC tune-up is a service that is provided by an HVAC contractor that helps to ensure that your system is running properly. The contractor will come to your home or business and inspect the entire system, clean it, make any necessary adjustments, and test it to ensure that it is running at peak efficiency.

If you have an HVAC tune up service, then there are certain procedures that should be followed to ensure proper care. Let's take a look at those!

HVAC Tune Up Procedures

When choosing a maintenance agreement to prolong the life of your system and improve its efficiency, you want to ensure that it meets the necessary requirements. Below is a list of the tune-up procedures that you should receive when you sign your HVAC system up on a maintenance plan.

Furnace Tune-up Procedures

1. Inspect and tighten all electrical connections and terminals.
2. Remove, clean, and adjust main gas burners.
3. Remove, clean, and adjust ignition/pilot assembly.
4. Thoroughly brush and vacuum clean the heat exchanger(s) and combustion chambers.
5. Inspect heat exchanger(s) & combustion chambers for cracks, rusting, or problem areas.
6. Vacuum out blower compartment; return airdrop and surrounding area. (No duct cleaning)
7. Clean all return air grills throughout the home.
8. Inspect the flue assembly and test the flue gas drafting mechanism.
9. Test and inspect all furnace safety controls.
10. Test, record, and adjust gas pressure.
11. Replace or clean standard air filters.
12. Remove and clean the blower motor, drive mechanism, and fan assembly.
13. Lubricate all fan motors and all moving parts.
14. Measure and adjust blower for correct airflow.
15. Adjust all dampers and set the proper blower speed(s).
16. Clean, level, test, and calibrate the thermostat.
17. Measure and record heating system output.
18. Inspect and test thermocouple output as well as a pilot safety switch.
19. Measure and record electrical voltage, amperage, and component resistance.
20. Inspect and test all system transformers, relays, contactors, and controls. Measure performance
21. Repair minor air leaks in plenum and returns airdrop.
22. Perform a complete and thorough, room-by-room, electronic carbon monoxide check of the entire house.
23. Advise customers on other ways to reduce energy consumption, improve safety and enhance comfort.

AC Tune-up Procedures

1. Chemically clean and thoroughly wash condenser coil(s).
2. Thoroughly clean or replace standard air filter(s).
3. Wash and level condensing unit for proper motor and bearing wear.
4. Lubricate motor and fan bearings as well as other moving parts as necessary.
5. Clean and inspect evaporator coil and drain pan when readily accessible.
6. Clean and inspect condensate drain lines and fittings.
7. Clean, level, and calibrate the thermostat.
8. Adjust and thoroughly clean blower motor and fan assembly as needed.
9. Inspect, tighten and test all electrical connections. This includes a disconnect switch.
10. Inspect all cooling system electrical wires, connectors, and terminals.
11. Test system starting and running capacitors.
12. Test all controls, switches, relays, transformers, contactors, motors, and fans.
13. Measure starting and running amperes, line voltage, and control voltage.
14. Test system-starting capabilities.
15. Test system for proper airflow and air delivery.
16. Inspect and adjust all safety controls.
17. Monitor refrigerant (Freon) pressures and temperatures.
18. Test and record super-heat and sub-cooling. Compare with factory specifications.
19. Adjust Freon metering control device per factory/manufacturer’s recommendations.
20. Test and measure air-conditioning system for proper production and capacity.
21. Monitor fan motors and compressor operating temperatures.
22. Apply weather-resistant protective coating to the outside unit. (Condenser)
23. Complete and present a full written report.

These are everything that needs to be included in your furnace and AC tune up procedure. Following this will ensure that you're HVAC system is properly maintained and tuned up! Without it, you have a much higher chance of your unit breaking down, which means costly repairs or even an AC or furnace replacement.

HVAC Tune Up Service

Our HVAC tune up service is a thorough inspection of your entire system to make sure it is running efficiently and safely. It's always smart to have a professional handle this job as there is quite a lot of steps to take to ensure that the job is done correctly.

Skipping a step or procedure could end up leading the unit to fail or have errors. Although if you want to learn how to tune up your HVAC system, you can follow the procedure listed above!

What Does an HVAC Tune Up Include

Here at Thomas Service Company, we ensure that we follow clear and strict tune up procedures. Everything we listed above in our tune up procedures list is what our expert team members will perform during an HVAC tune up service.

How Long Does an HVAC Tune Up Take

If you are having a professional come out and perform an HVAC system tune up for you, you can expect them to take around an hour to complete the job. However, if you are attempting this on your own as a DIY, then it could take much longer!

How Much Does an HVAC Tune Up cost

Typically you can expect to pay around $80 to $200 for a professional tune up service. However, many companies will over seasonal specials to lower that cost for customers.

Here at Thomas Service Company, we have an HVAC tune-up special at only $79!

Maintaining Your HVAC System & Prolonging Its Lifespan

Maintaining your HVAC system is important for the lifespan of the unit and to ensure that it is running efficiently. The procedures we have listed above are what need to be done in order to properly tune up your system. Following these steps will help you save money on energy costs and keep your home comfortable!

If you're looking for an HVAC tune up service in Alabama or Tennessee, give us a call here at Thomas Service Company. We're your local trusted and friendly HVAC pros!