Air conditioner maintenance companies near you

Before hiring help for air conditioner maintenance, be sure to ask your pro these questions:

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

• How much experience do you have with my specific type of AC system?

• What’s included in a standard maintenance check-up?

• Do you charge a flat or hourly rate for your services?

• If you find a problem, will you discuss repair options and costs with me before starting work?

• Do you offer a guarantee or warranty on your maintenance work?

• How long does a typical visit take?

Regular AC maintenance tasks include cleaning or replacing the air filter, clearing the drain line, and cleaning the coils. A professional tune-up typically goes deeper by checking refrigerant levels and electrical connections to help ensure everything is working safely and efficiently. Routine tune-ups can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and keeps your energy costs down.

Common signs that it’s time to tune up your air conditioner include:

• Weak airflow: If the air coming from your vents feels weaker than usual, it could mean the filter is clogged or there’s a blockage in the ductwork.

• Strange noises: Squealing, grinding, or rattling sounds may point to a mechanical problem, such as a failing motor or a loose part.

• Unpleasant odors: A musty smell may suggest mold or mildew in the unit or ducts, while a burning smell could signal an electrical issue.

• Warm air: If your AC is blowing warm air, you might have low refrigerant or a problem with the compressor.

• Visible leaks or moisture: Water pooling near your unit often points to a clogged drain line. This is a frequent repair for central air systems and a common reason to call a pro.

Plan to have your air conditioning unit serviced at least once a year, ideally in the spring before the summer heat arrives. An annual tune-up can help keep your system running efficiently, prevent surprise breakdowns, and extend the life of your unit. It’s a simple step to help you stay comfortable all season.

Use the $5,000 AC rule to help you decide between repairing or replacing your air conditioner. Multiply the estimated repair cost by your unit's age in years. If that number is over $5,000, it’s generally more cost-effective to invest in a new system than to pay for repairs.

The cost of AC maintenance depends on several factors, including:

• Unit type and size: Costs vary by type of system, such as a central air conditioner, ductless mini-split, or window unit. Larger or more complex systems generally cost more to service.

• System age and condition: An older unit or one that hasn't been serviced in a while may require more intensive cleaning and attention, which can increase labor costs.

• Necessary repairs: Maintenance visits can sometimes uncover underlying problems. If your technician finds a worn-out part or a refrigerant leak, the cost to fix it will be in addition to the standard service fee.

• Unit accessibility: If your indoor or outdoor units are in a hard-to-reach spot, like a cramped attic or on a high roof, the technician may charge more for the extra time and potential risk involved.

• Your location: Labor rates for skilled HVAC pros can vary from one region to another.

Before your pro arrives to for an AC tune-up, take these steps to help ensure a safe and efficient appointment:

Step 1: Clear the area around your units. Your pro will need a few feet of clear space around both the indoor and outdoor components to work safely and efficiently. Step 2: Secure any pets. For everyone's safety and to prevent distractions, please keep pets in a separate room or a crate during the service.

Step 3: Note any concerns. If you've noticed strange noises, weak airflow, or other issues, make a list to share with your pro.

Step 4: Turn the system off. It’s helpful to shut down your AC unit an hour or two before your appointment.