What to Expect During a HVAC Preventative Maintenance

What to Expect During HVAC Preventative Maintenance Visits

Preventative maintenance (PM) for your heating and cooling system is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure comfort, efficiency, and reliability throughout the year. Whether you have a central air conditioning system or a heat pump paired with a gas or propane furnace, seasonal maintenance visits—typically one in the summer and one in the winter—are designed to keep your equipment running smoothly and prevent costly breakdowns.

Summer Maintenance: Air Conditioning or Heat Pump

During a summer PM visit, an HVAC technician will generally:

• Inspect and clean the outdoor condenser coil to improve heat transfer.
• Check refrigerant levels and system pressures to ensure proper cooling performance.
• Inspect electrical connections, capacitors, and contactors for wear or damage.
• Test the thermostat and system controls.
• Clean or replace the air filter (sometimes this is homeowner responsibility).
• Check condensate drain lines for clogs and ensure proper drainage.
• Inspect blower components and indoor coil for cleanliness and airflow issues.

Winter Maintenance: Gas or Propane Furnace

For winter PM, the technician will typically:

• Inspect and clean the burner assembly and heat exchanger.
• Check ignition system and safety controls.
• Test carbon monoxide levels and ensure proper venting.
• Inspect and tighten electrical connections.
• Verify gas pressure and combustion efficiency.
• Check and replace air filters if needed.
• Lubricate moving parts where applicable.

 

Oil Furnaces and Boilers

Oil-fired systems and boilers require different services, such as nozzle replacement, pump pressure checks, and combustion chamber cleaning. These tasks are more specialized and often take longer than gas furnace maintenance.

Value-Added Services

Some companies go beyond the manufacturer’s recommended checklist by offering extras like ductwork inspections, airflow balancing, or even minor repairs included in the visit. These value-added services can provide peace of mind but may come at a higher price.

Time and Cost Expectations

A thorough PM visit usually takes 45 minutes to 90 minutes per system, depending on complexity and condition. For pricing, homeowners can expect to pay $100–$250 per visit for standard maintenance. Be aware that some companies offer heavily discounted PM visits—sometimes as low as $49—to attract new customers. While these deals can be appealing, they often come with an expectation that the technician will find issues that lead to upsell opportunities for repairs or upgrades.

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