Spring HVAC Tune-Up: What Techs Actually Check (And Why It Matters)

What "tune-up" actually means (the real 22-point checklist)

"Tune-up" gets thrown around loosely in this industry. Here's what a Keith's spring cooling tune-up actually covers, point by point, and why each one matters.

Electrical system (points 1-6)

1. Capacitor test: measures actual capacitance against rated spec. Weak capacitors cause hard starts and eventual failure.
2. Contactor inspection: checks for pitting and burning on contacts.
3. Wiring connections: tightens any connections loosened by vibration over the year.
4. Disconnect box inspection: verifies the outdoor disconnect switch is functioning and not corroded.
5. Amp draw test on compressor: compares actual running amps to rated spec, an early warning sign of compressor wear.
6. Control board inspection: checks for corrosion, burn marks, or failing relays.

Refrigerant system (points 7-11)

7. Refrigerant charge verification: checks actual charge against manufacturer spec using superheat/subcooling measurements, not just a pressure gauge glance.
8. Leak inspection at all accessible joints: visual and electronic sniffer check at common leak points.
9. Suction line insulation check: damaged insulation reduces efficiency and can cause condensation issues.
10. Condenser coil cleaning: removes dirt, pollen, and (on coastal units) salt buildup that restricts heat transfer.
11. Evaporator coil visual inspection: checks for dirt buildup or microbial growth (accessible units).

Airflow system (points 12-16)

12. Filter inspection and replacement: standard part of every tune-up.
13. Blower wheel inspection: checks for dirt buildup that reduces airflow (a surprisingly common efficiency killer).
14. Blower motor amp draw: compares to spec, catches early motor wear.
15. Static pressure test: measures actual resistance in your ductwork system, flags undersized returns or restrictive filters.
16. Register and grille check: confirms nothing is blocked or closed that shouldn't be.

Drainage and safety (points 17-19)

17. Condensate drain flush: clears algae and buildup before it causes a clog and shutdown (or worse, water damage).
18. Float switch test: verifies the safety switch that shuts the system down if the drain backs up is actually functional.
19. Drain pan inspection: checks for rust-through or cracks, especially on older secondary pans.

Thermostat and controls (points 20-22)

20. Thermostat calibration check: verifies the displayed temperature matches actual room temperature.
21. Cycle test: runs the system through a full cool cycle, monitoring startup and shutdown behavior.
22. Temperature split verification: measures the temperature difference between return and supply air, confirming the system is delivering rated cooling capacity.

Why each point matters (not just checkbox theater)

Some companies run a superficial "tune-up" that's really just a filter change and a visual glance. The value of a real tune-up comes from catching small problems (a capacitor testing at 80% of rated spec, amp draw trending high, a condensate drain half-clogged) before they become no-cooling emergencies mid-July.

What we find most often on the Coast

Salt/dirt buildup on condenser coils (from coastal air and heavy pollen season), weak capacitors from heat-cycling stress, and condensate drains partially clogged with algae (humidity accelerates this growth). All three are quick, inexpensive fixes during a tune-up; all three become expensive emergency calls if ignored until failure.

What it costs

$99.99 for a single tune-up visit, or included twice yearly (spring + fall) in the $199.99/year Care Plan membership, which also includes priority scheduling and 15% off any repairs found during the visit.

Book your spring tune-up before the summer rush: (228) 265-8609.