By Paul F. P. Pogue
From Ask Angi

It might seem early to start thinking about your air conditioning unit, but late winter and early spring are the ideal times to be contacting your HVAC pro for an inspection and tuneup. A twice-yearly HVAC inspection—once in fall before heating starts, once in spring before you need the cooling—can catch surprises before they become expensive ones. And regular attention from HVAC techs will add years to the lifespan of your unit. You’ll get ahead on waiting lists if you start making calls now.

Your average AC inspection costs about $100, and if you have a regular service contract with an HVAC provider, it’s often included with your contract. (Incidentally, getting a service contract with an HVAC provider is usually a good idea; it covers things like routine maintenance, and often gives you priority scheduling in an emergency.) During the inspection and tuneup, which should take about an afternoon, your tech will test all operating temperatures and pressure; inspect the coils, blower, drain line, and motor; verify that the proper refrigerant levels are set; and lubricate where needed. (In most cases, they’ll take a look at the heating side as well, to see if any winter wear-and-tear has led to a need for a repair.)

This inspection does more than just check for future problems. It also improves efficiency, makes the temperature more comfortable and lowers energy costs.

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