What is included in an HVAC maintenance visit?
Every maintenance visit follows a checklist. On the cooling side we clean or check the outdoor condenser coil, measure refrigerant pressures and temperature split, test capacitors and contactors, check the condensate drain and pan, and make sure the outdoor fan and indoor blower are running at the right speed. On the heating side we test the heat strips or gas burners, check the heat exchanger and flue on gas units, verify safety switches and limit controls, and confirm the thermostat is reading correctly.
We also look at the filter, the blower wheel, electrical connections and the ductwork we can reach. When we finish, you get a plain explanation of what we found. If something needs repair, we tell you what it is, why it matters and what it costs before any work is done. Nothing is replaced without your approval.
How often should my system be serviced?
For most homes in East Tennessee we recommend two visits a year: one in spring before the cooling season and one in fall before the heating season. Heat pumps work year-round here, so they benefit the most from twice-a-year service. Commercial rooftop units, restaurants and buildings that run equipment long hours may need quarterly service, and we can set up a schedule that fits your building.
Between visits, change or clean your air filter every one to three months. A dirty filter is the most common cause of frozen coils, high bills and short cycling that we see in Hamblen County.
Why preventative maintenance saves money
A system that is dirty or low on charge has to run longer to do the same job. That extra run time shows up on your electric bill and wears out compressors and motors. Most of the emergency calls we get in July and January could have been caught during a routine visit: a weak capacitor, a clogged drain line or a loose wire. Replacing a part on a scheduled visit costs far less than an after-hours repair or a full system replacement.
Many manufacturers also require proof of regular maintenance to keep the warranty valid. We leave you a record of every visit so you have it if you ever need it.
Residential and commercial maintenance
We maintain split systems, heat pumps, gas furnaces, ductless mini splits and packaged units for homeowners, landlords, churches, offices and small commercial buildings. If you manage more than one property, we can keep every unit on one schedule and send you a single report.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a tune-up take?
- Most residential maintenance visits take about an hour per system. Larger or commercial equipment can take longer.
- Do I need to be home?
- Someone needs to give us access to the indoor unit and thermostat. Outdoor work can be done while you step away.
- Will you try to sell me a new system?
- No. If your equipment is working and safe, we will tell you so. We only recommend replacement when repairs no longer make sense.
- Do you service mini splits?
- Yes. Ductless mini splits need their filters, coils and blower wheels cleaned to keep running quietly and efficiently.