What's included in an AC tune-up?
Last updated September 2026
Quick answer
A good AC tune-up usually includes cleaning and inspecting the outdoor coil, checking refrigerant pressures, testing electrical parts like the capacitor and contactor, checking airflow and the air filter, clearing the condensate drain line, and making sure the thermostat works correctly. Ask the company for a written checklist of what they did and what they found.
A typical tune-up checklist
Outdoor unit: clean the coil, check the fan motor and blades, tighten electrical connections, test the capacitor and contactor. Indoor unit: check the blower, the evaporator coil if accessible, and the air filter. System: check refrigerant pressures and temperatures, measure airflow, clear and test the condensate drain, and confirm the thermostat is cycling correctly.
Why it matters in Houston
Houston ACs run for most of the year, so small problems grow faster here. Clogged drain lines are especially common in the humidity, and in attic installs they can overflow into the ceiling. A tune-up before summer catches weak parts before the first heat wave, when every company is busiest.
How often to schedule one
At least once a year for cooling, ideally in spring before the heat arrives. If you have a heat pump, many companies also recommend a fall check for heating. Change your air filter on schedule in between; in Houston, check it monthly during summer.
Signs of a good visit
The tech explains what they checked, shows you any problems with photos or readings, and gives prices in writing before doing extra work. Be cautious of a visit that is mostly a sales pitch for a new system without clear evidence of a problem.
Are maintenance plans worth it?
Many companies offer yearly plans with scheduled tune-ups, priority service and repair discounts. They can be worth it if you'd book the tune-ups anyway. Ask exactly what's included, how many visits you get, and whether the plan auto-renews.
Find a licensed HVAC maintenance pro near you
- HVAC maintenance in Houston
- HVAC maintenance in Katy
- HVAC maintenance in The Woodlands
- HVAC maintenance in Pearland
What's included in an AC tune-up: common questions
How long does an AC tune-up take?
Often about an hour for a typical home system, longer if the tech finds something that needs attention.
What can I do myself between tune-ups?
Change or clean the air filter, keep a couple of feet clear around the outdoor unit, and watch for water near the indoor unit. Leave electrical and refrigerant work to a licensed tech.
Does maintenance affect my warranty?
It can. Many manufacturer warranties expect regular maintenance, so keep your receipts and check your warranty terms.