In Phoenix, where triple-digit summers can push air conditioning systems to the brink, routine AC tune-ups and maintenance isn’t just recommended—it’s essential. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, lasts longer, and is far less likely to break down during the hottest part of the year. Yet many homeowners don’t realize what a proper AC tune-up actually entails.
If you’re paying for annual or seasonal maintenance, your technician should be following a comprehensive checklist, not just a quick filter change and cursory inspection. Here’s the 12-point AC tune-up every Phoenix homeowner should expect when their AC system is serviced.
What to Expect With an AC Tune-Up
1. Thermostat Check and Calibration
A tune-up should begin at the thermostat. Your technician will verify that it’s reading the correct temperature and communicating properly with your system. If your thermostat isn’t calibrated, the AC may cycle on and off unnecessarily, leading to higher energy bills and inconsistent cooling.
2. Air Filter Inspection and Replacement
Clogged filters restrict airflow, causing the system to work harder and reducing indoor air quality. Your tech should have your filter inspected and replaced if it’s dirty. In Phoenix, where dust is prevalent, filters often need to be changed every one to two months.
3. Electrical Connections and Voltage Check
Loose or corroded electrical connections can cause shorts or system failure. The technician will tighten connections and measure voltage on motors and other electrical components to ensure they’re operating safely and efficiently.
4. Condenser Coil Cleaning
The outdoor condenser coil releases the heat your AC system removes from your home. When it’s clogged with dirt or debris, efficiency plummets. A proper tune-up includes cleaning the condenser coil to restore optimal heat transfer.
5. Evaporator Coil Inspection
Inside your air handler, the evaporator coil absorbs heat from indoor air. The technician will inspect it for dirt, dust, and mold buildup. Dirty coils can freeze up and cause major performance issues, so cleaning is recommended if necessary.
6. Refrigerant Level Check
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system. If levels are too low, your system can’t cool effectively, and the compressor may be damaged. Your technician will measure refrigerant pressure and, if needed, top it off or check for leaks.
7. Blower Motor and Belt Inspection
The blower motor pushes cooled air through your ductwork. Your tech will inspect it and its belt for wear, lubricate moving parts, and test the motor’s amperage draw. This ensures the motor won’t fail under heavy summer demand.
8. Condensate Drain Clearing
Arizona’s humid monsoon months can lead to clogged condensate drains, which can cause water damage and mold growth. During a tune-up, the technician will flush and clear the drain line to ensure proper drainage.
9. Ductwork Visual Inspection
Leaky or obstructed ducts can waste up to 30% of your cooled air. While a tune-up doesn’t involve a full duct cleaning, the technician should inspect accessible ductwork for signs of leaks, blockages, or disconnected joints.
10. System Controls and Safety Devices Check
Your AC system has multiple controls and safety devices designed to protect it from damage. The technician will test start-up and shut-down sequences and ensure limit switches and relays are functioning properly.
11. Lubrication of Moving Parts
Friction increases energy consumption and shortens component life. Your technician should lubricate fan bearings, motors, and other moving parts that require it.
12. Performance and Airflow Testing
Finally, the tech will run your system through a full cooling cycle, measure the temperature differential between the supply and return air, and confirm proper airflow. This final check verifies that the AC is operating at peak efficiency before they leave.
Why This AC Tune-UP Checklist Matters in Phoenix
Phoenix’s brutal summer heat is unforgiving on AC systems, and a poorly maintained unit is far more likely to fail during the worst possible time. A proper 12-point AC tune-up not only helps prevent breakdowns but can also reduce energy consumption by up to 15%. It also ensures you’re meeting any manufacturer maintenance requirements, which is critical if you ever need to make a warranty claim.
When you schedule your next AC tune-up, don’t be afraid to ask your technician about their checklist. A reputable HVAC company will be happy to walk you through each step and explain why it matters. By holding your service provider accountable for a thorough tune-up, you’ll enjoy better cooling performance, lower utility bills, and the peace of mind that your AC system is ready for the Phoenix summer.