Steps you can do yourself
- Replace the air filter.
- Clear leaves, debris and plants from around the outdoor unit, leaving about two feet of space.
- Check that the condensate drain line near the indoor unit is clear.
- Turn the system on for a short test before the first hot day.
- Make sure supply and return vents are not blocked by furniture.
What a professional tune-up covers
- Cleaning the coils and checking the blower
- Checking refrigerant pressures and electrical connections
- Testing the thermostat and safety controls
- Inspecting the drain line and ductwork connections
Why it matters
Catching a worn part or a small leak before the first heat wave is easier, and usually cheaper, than repairing a system that fails in the middle of it.