Summer temperatures in Santa Clara can put extra strain on your air conditioning system, especially during long heat waves. Without proper maintenance, your AC may work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy bills, reduced efficiency and unexpected breakdowns.
At Upgrade Home Services, we help Bay Area homeowners keep their cooling systems running efficiently through the hottest months of the year. Routine maintenance not only improves comfort but also helps extend the life of your equipment and lower long-term repair costs.
This guide covers essential AC maintenance tips to help keep your home cool, comfortable and energy-efficient all summer long.
Why is AC maintenance important?
Routine air conditioning maintenance offers several major benefits for homeowners.
Improved energy efficiency
A clean, properly maintained system doesn’t need to work as hard to cool your home. That helps keep monthly utility bills down while improving overall performance.
Longer system life
Preventive maintenance reduces wear and tear on important parts, extending the life of your AC system.
Cleaner air moving through your home
Clean filters and coils help reduce the dust and airborne particles circulating through your home.
Fewer unexpected repairs
Routine inspections let technicians catch small issues before they turn into major failures during peak summer heat.
Many homeowners who stay consistent with annual maintenance have fewer breakdowns and lower repair costs over time.
What summer AC maintenance should I do?
1. Replace or clean air filters
Dirty air filters restrict airflow and force your system to work harder than necessary.
Best practice:
Check filters monthly during summer
Replace disposable filters as needed, at least every 1–3 months
Clean reusable filters regularly
Fresh filters improve airflow, cooling performance and indoor air quality.
2. Keep the outdoor unit clear
Your outdoor condenser needs good airflow to run efficiently.
What to do:
Remove leaves, dirt and debris around the unit
Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around the condenser
Trim nearby shrubs or branches
A clean outdoor unit helps your system cool more efficiently while reducing strain on the compressor.
3. Clean the AC coils
Over time, dust and buildup collect on the evaporator coil (indoors) and the condenser coil (outdoors), reducing performance.
Maintenance tip: Gently clean visible debris from the outdoor coil with a soft brush, or schedule professional coil cleaning for deeper maintenance.
Clean coils move heat better and help your AC run efficiently in hot weather.
4. Check refrigerant levels
Low refrigerant can reduce cooling power and may mean there’s a leak in the system.
Signs of low refrigerant:
Weak airflow
Longer cooling cycles
Warm air from vents
Ice buildup on refrigerant lines
Professional technicians can inspect the system, find leaks and recharge refrigerant to the manufacturer’s specifications.
5. Schedule a professional AC tune-up
Routine professional maintenance helps find hidden issues before they become expensive repairs. An AC tune-up from Upgrade Home Services is $135.
A complete tune-up may include:
Electrical inspections
Refrigerant checks
Thermostat testing
Airflow evaluation
Coil cleaning
Safety inspections
Professional servicing also helps improve efficiency and reliability during the hottest months of the year.
Task
Who
How often
Check the filter
You
Monthly in summer
Clear 2 feet around the condenser
You
Start of summer, then as needed
Brush visible debris off the outdoor coil
You
As needed
Coil cleaning, refrigerant and electrical checks
A technician
Once a year, before summer
How does Upgrade Home Services help homeowners stay comfortable?
Upgrade Home Services proudly serves Santa Clara and nearby communities including San Jose, Fremont, Sunnyvale and Milpitas. Homeowners appreciate dependable HVAC service designed to improve comfort, efficiency and long-term system performance.
Experienced HVAC technicians: Our trained technicians inspect, maintain and tune all major AC systems for reliable summer performance.
Thorough system inspections: We carefully check airflow, refrigerant levels, electrical parts and overall performance on every maintenance visit.
Reliable, professional service: Homeowners appreciate our punctual service, clear communication and honest recommendations.
Modern tools and diagnostics: We use modern HVAC diagnostic equipment to help detect problems early.
Customer-focused approach: Our goal is simple: dependable service that keeps homeowners comfortable without unnecessary upsells or surprise repairs.
Want maintenance handled every year? Our Comfort Club Single System plan ($9.95/month or $115/year) includes 1 maintenance visit a year for one AC, and the Full plan ($18.95/month or $225/year) includes 2 visits a year for heating and cooling, or a heat pump system. Members also get priority service, a $49 diagnostic for Comfort Club members and 15% off repairs.
What else can I do to stay cool this summer?
Simple preventive steps can improve cooling, reduce energy costs and keep your home more comfortable during summer heat.
Use a programmable thermostat: Scheduling can improve efficiency and reduce cooling costs throughout the day.
Seal and insulate ductwork: Well-sealed ducts help keep cooled air from escaping into attics or crawl spaces.
Add shade around the outdoor unit: Partial shade can help the condenser, as long as airflow stays unrestricted.
Schedule maintenance early: Booking AC service before peak summer temperatures helps you avoid long wait times and unexpected repairs.
Key takeaway: Check the filter monthly, keep the condenser clear, and book a $135 AC tune-up in spring so a technician can clean the coils and check refrigerant before Santa Clara’s hottest weeks.
Ready for a cooler, more efficient summer?
Keeping your air conditioning system properly maintained helps improve comfort, reduce energy costs and prevent unexpected breakdowns on the hottest days of the year. With professional maintenance and routine care, your AC system can keep running efficiently for years to come.
Upgrade Home Services is a family-owned HVAC contractor based in Milpitas, licensed with CSLB #1066776 and serving homeowners since 2002 across 22 cities in Santa Clara, San Mateo and southern Alameda counties. Call (408) 649-3198, Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM, to schedule your HVAC maintenance.
Summer AC maintenance questions
How much is an AC tune-up in Santa Clara?
An AC maintenance visit is $135. Comfort Club plans include yearly visits: Single System is $9.95/month or $115/year, and Full is $18.95/month or $225/year.
How often should I change my AC filter in summer?
Check it monthly while the AC runs a lot, and replace it whenever it looks gray, at least every 1–3 months.
Can I clean my AC coils myself?
You can gently brush loose debris off the outdoor coil with the power off. Deeper coil cleaning, especially the indoor coil, is best left to a technician.
How do I know if my AC is low on refrigerant?
Weak airflow, long cooling cycles, warm air from the vents and ice on the refrigerant lines are common signs. Low refrigerant usually means a leak, so call a technician to find it.
Heat Pump Maintenance Checklist for Bay Area Homes
Keeping a simple heat pump maintenance checklist can help you avoid costly repairs, lower energy bills, and extend the life of your system. With regular care, your heat pump can deliver reliable heating and cooling all year long.
For Bay Area homeowners, where weather conditions vary from coastal moisture to dry summers, routine maintenance is especially important.
Why does heat pump maintenance matter?
Because small problems quietly cut performance. Heat pumps are highly efficient systems, but they rely on proper airflow, clean components, and balanced operation. Even small issues can reduce performance over time.
Regular maintenance helps:
Improve energy efficiency
Prevent unexpected breakdowns
Extend equipment lifespan
Maintain consistent indoor comfort
Even something as simple as a dirty filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder than necessary.
What should I do every month?
Staying consistent with small tasks can make a big difference:
Check the air filter monthly, and replace or clean it every 1–3 months
Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around the outdoor unit
Check vents to ensure proper airflow
Listen for unusual noises or changes in operation
During wildfire season or high pollen periods, filters may need more frequent attention.
What should I do each season?
Spring (cooling preparation)
Turn off power at the breaker, then clean the outdoor unit with a gentle rinse from a garden hose
Check the condensate drain for proper flow
Adjust thermostat settings for warmer weather
Inspect the refrigerant lines for damaged insulation
Fall (heating preparation)
Replace filters and clean return vents
Inspect the outdoor unit for debris or damage
Test heating mode before colder weather begins
Seal small air leaks to improve efficiency
What does an annual professional tune-up include?
While DIY maintenance is important, a yearly professional inspection ensures everything is working correctly.
Task
Who does it
How often
Check, clean or replace the filter
You
Check monthly; replace every 1–3 months
Clear 2 feet around the outdoor unit
You
Monthly, and after storms
Rinse the outdoor coil and check the drain
You
Spring
Test heating mode
You
Fall
Clean coils, check electrical parts and controls, measure refrigerant and test safety controls
Technician
Once a year
A technician will:
Clean coils and internal components
Check electrical connections and controls
Measure refrigerant levels and performance
Test system safety and operation
Provide a clear report with recommendations
This step helps catch issues early before they turn into major repairs. Because a heat pump heats and cools, our Comfort Club Full plan includes two maintenance visits a year, one before each season.
How do I maintain a ductless mini-split?
If you have a ductless system, regular care is just as important:
Clean or wash filters every month
Keep indoor units free from dust buildup
Ensure proper airflow around each unit
Professional mini-split maintenance includes deep cleaning and system diagnostics for optimal performance.
Does a heat pump water heater need maintenance too?
Yes. Heat pump water heaters are energy-efficient but still require maintenance:
Key takeaway: Change the filter every 1 to 3 months, keep 2 feet clear around the outdoor unit, and book one professional tune-up a year. Those three habits help prevent many common problems.
Final thoughts
Following a simple heat pump maintenance checklist helps keep your system running efficiently and reliably. Regular care not only improves comfort but also saves money over time.
Upgrade Home Services provides heat pump maintenance, repair, and installation across the Bay Area. We are a family-owned HVAC contractor in Milpitas, licensed by the CSLB (#1066776) and caring for homes since 2002 in 22 cities across Santa Clara, San Mateo and southern Alameda counties, including San Jose, Fremont and Sunnyvale.
Heat pump maintenance questions
How often should a heat pump be serviced?
Once a year by a technician, plus regular filter changes and a quick check of the outdoor unit from you. Because a heat pump works in both summer and winter, many homeowners book a visit before each season.
How often should I change my heat pump filter?
Every 1 to 3 months for most homes. Check it monthly, and more often during wildfire smoke or high pollen.
Can I clean my heat pump’s outdoor unit myself?
Yes, a gentle rinse with a garden hose is fine once the power is off at the breaker. Leave the panels, wiring and refrigerant to a technician.
Why is there ice on my heat pump?
A little frost in cold weather is normal, and the system defrosts itself. Thick ice that doesn’t clear can mean an airflow, refrigerant or defrost problem, so call for service.
HVAC Preventive Maintenance: Save Energy, Avoid Breakdowns
HVAC preventive maintenance is one of the simplest ways to avoid unexpected breakdowns, lower energy bills and extend the life of your system. If your air conditioner or heat pump hasn’t been serviced in the past year, it may already be overdue.
In the Bay Area, seasonal dust, pollen and summer heat can put extra strain on HVAC systems. A professional tune-up helps restore efficiency and makes sure your system is ready when you need it most.
Why does HVAC maintenance matter?
Heating and cooling can make up a large part of your home’s energy use. When your system isn’t properly maintained, it works harder and uses more energy.
With regular HVAC maintenance, you can expect:
Lower energy bills from better efficiency
A longer system life, by catching small issues early
Fewer repairs and unexpected breakdowns
Safer operation, especially for gas systems
Service records that help if you ever need a warranty claim
Routine maintenance is a small investment that helps prevent costly problems later.
What’s included in an HVAC tune-up?
A professional HVAC maintenance service usually includes three key steps:
Inspection: Your technician checks the system for wear and potential issues, including electrical parts, fans and overall condition.
Cleaning: Key parts like coils, filters and drain lines are cleaned to improve airflow and prevent damage.
Performance testing: The system is tested to make sure it’s running efficiently, with proper airflow, temperature output and refrigerant levels.
This process applies to air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces and ductless mini-split systems. An AC or furnace maintenance visit is $135.
How does maintenance differ by system type?
Different HVAC systems need slightly different care:
No matter the system, routine maintenance helps keep everything running smoothly.
What happens if you skip maintenance?
Skipping HVAC maintenance can lead to:
Reduced airflow and poor cooling
Higher energy bills
Water leaks from clogged drain lines
System overheating or short cycling (turning on and off every few minutes)
Unexpected breakdowns in peak seasons
A simple tune-up costs far less than an unexpected major repair or a full system replacement.
How often should you schedule HVAC maintenance?
At least once per year for most systems
Twice per year for heat pumps (since they run year-round)
You should also:
Replace filters every 1–3 months
Keep about 2 feet clear around outdoor units
Watch for changes in how the system performs
Homes with pets, dust or smoke exposure may need more frequent filter changes and maintenance.
A Comfort Club plan makes the schedule easy. The Full plan ($18.95/month or $225/year) includes 2 maintenance visits a year for heating and cooling, or a heat pump system. The Single System plan ($9.95/month or $115/year) includes 1 visit a year for one furnace or one AC. Members also get priority service, a $49 diagnostic for Comfort Club members and 15% off repairs.
What can I do myself, and what needs a professional?
Homeowners can handle simple tasks like:
Replacing air filters
Clearing debris around outdoor units
Checking vents for airflow, and keeping vents open even in rooms you don’t use
Professional technicians should handle:
Electrical inspections
Refrigerant checks
Deep cleaning and system diagnostics
Safety testing for gas systems
What are the signs my HVAC system needs service?
Call for maintenance if you notice:
Weak airflow or uneven cooling
Higher utility bills
Strange noises or odors
Water leaks near the unit
The system turning on and off frequently
These are early warning signs to address before they become major issues. If you ever smell gas, leave the home and call PG&E or 911.
How can I improve air flow and system efficiency?
Your HVAC system works best when airflow isn’t restricted. Dirty ducts, leaks or blocked returns can reduce performance.
Professional services such as duct cleaning, duct sealing and airflow adjustments can improve comfort and help keep the air moving through your home cleaner.
Key takeaway: Book maintenance once a year for most systems and twice a year for heat pumps, change the filter every 1–3 months, and leave electrical, refrigerant and gas safety checks to a technician.
Final thoughts
Regular HVAC preventive maintenance helps keep your system efficient, reliable and long-lasting. It lowers the risk of breakdowns, improves comfort and saves money over time.
Upgrade Home Services provides HVAC maintenance, repair and installation throughout the Bay Area, including San Jose, Milpitas, Fremont, Sunnyvale and Santa Clara. We’re a family-owned company based in Milpitas, licensed with CSLB #1066776 and serving homeowners since 2002 across 22 cities in Santa Clara, San Mateo and southern Alameda counties. Call (408) 649-3198, Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM, or use our online contact form. Take the first step toward a cleaner, safer and more efficient home.
HVAC preventive maintenance questions
How much does HVAC preventive maintenance cost?
An AC or furnace maintenance visit is $135. Comfort Club plans include visits: Full is $18.95/month or $225/year for 2 visits, and Single System is $9.95/month or $115/year for 1 visit.
How often do heat pumps need maintenance?
Twice a year is best, because a heat pump heats in winter and cools in summer. The Comfort Club Full plan covers 2 visits a year for a heat pump system.
How long does a tune-up take?
It depends on the system and its condition. The technician will tell you what they found and whether anything needs attention before they leave.
Do you maintain ductless mini-splits?
Yes. We maintain mini-splits as well as central ACs, heat pumps and furnaces from every major brand.
Spring is the perfect time for a fresh start, not only for your home décor but also for your air conditioning system. With warmer weather ahead, it’s important for San Jose homeowners to make sure their AC units are running at their best.
One satisfied customer, Dawn S., shared her experience:
I highly recommend Upgrade Home Services. Victor is fair, knowledgable, affordable, and provides very professional customer support.
Dawn S., Google review
Real experiences like this show the value of professional HVAC service and of routine maintenance to prevent costly breakdowns in the hotter months ahead.
Why does spring maintenance matter for my AC unit?
Spring maintenance makes the switch from cool winter weather to summer heat much easier on your air conditioning system. Regular upkeep helps keep air moving cleanly, keeps energy bills in check and lowers the chance of unexpected repairs.
By fixing small issues early, homeowners can avoid major repairs in the peak summer months, when AC systems work the hardest.
What spring maintenance should I do on my AC?
1. Inspect and clean your filters
Over time, dust, pollen and other particles clog AC filters, restricting airflow and reducing efficiency.
Clean or replace the filter every 1–3 months. A clean filter improves cooling, keeps dust out of the system and lets your AC unit run smoothly.
2. Clear the area around your outdoor unit
Leaves, debris and overgrown plants can block airflow around your outdoor condenser (the outdoor unit that releases heat). Each spring, take time to clear about 2 feet around the system.
Keeping the space clear lets the unit run without strain and helps prevent overheating.
3. Check for unusual noises or smells
Air conditioning systems often give early warning signs when something is wrong. Strange noises, unusual vibrations or odd smells may point to a problem inside. If you ever smell gas, leave the home and call PG&E or 911.
Addressing these warning signs early can keep small problems from turning into expensive repairs.
4. Schedule a professional tune-up
Even if your AC system seems to be working normally, a professional AC tune-up is worth it.
Trained technicians can find hidden issues that aren’t visible during a basic look. For example, one customer shared how our technician quickly diagnosed the issue and even suggested reusing an existing part to save on costs.
During a professional tune-up, technicians typically inspect:
Refrigerant levels
Electrical connections
System components and performance
Airflow and thermostat function
These checks help make sure your system is ready for the warmer months ahead.
5. Seal and insulate your home
Spring is also a good time to check your home for air leaks. Small gaps around doors and windows let warm air in, forcing your AC system to work harder.
6. Monitor energy efficiency
A well-maintained AC system runs more efficiently. Regular inspections and cleaning reduce the workload on the system, helping it run smoothly while using less energy.
Taking these steps now helps keep cooling costs manageable when temperatures begin to rise.
Spring task
Do it yourself?
Clean or replace the filter
Yes, every 1–3 months
Clear 2 feet around the outdoor unit
Yes
Listen and smell for anything unusual
Yes, then call us if something’s off
Seal gaps around doors and windows
Yes
Check refrigerant, electrical parts and airflow
No, book a tune-up
What sets Upgrade Home Services apart?
Upgrade Home Services brings more than 20 years of HVAC experience to every maintenance visit. Our team is committed to honest, high-quality service tailored to the needs of San Jose homeowners.
Many customers appreciate not only the quality of the repairs but also the personal care we provide throughout the service process.
Because every home and HVAC system is different, we offer a few maintenance options, from a single tune-up to a year-round plan:
One visit: AC or furnace maintenance is $135.
Comfort Club Single System: $9.95/month or $115/year, with 1 maintenance visit a year for one furnace or one AC.
Comfort Club Full: $18.95/month or $225/year, with 2 maintenance visits a year for heating and cooling, or a heat pump system.
Comfort Club members also get priority service, a $49 diagnostic for Comfort Club members and 15% off repairs.
How can I make the most of spring maintenance?
Spring is a season of renewal, which makes it the ideal time to get your home ready for warmer weather. Here are a few helpful reminders:
Set a calendar reminder
Schedule your AC maintenance check every spring to stay ahead of potential issues.
Keep your service records
Keeping records of repairs and maintenance can help with future troubleshooting or warranty claims.
Be proactive
Regular maintenance now can save you repair costs later.
One customer told us a recent service visit fixed his AC issue quickly and convinced him to join a maintenance plan, so his system gets checked every year.
Key takeaway: Do the easy jobs yourself this spring (filter, clearing the outdoor unit, sealing gaps) and book a $135 tune-up so a technician can check refrigerant, electrical parts and airflow before summer.
Ready for a comfortable summer?
Upgrade Home Services is dedicated to keeping your home comfortable, efficient and reliable. Through clear advice, thorough inspections and customer-focused service, we make spring maintenance simple.
We’re a family-owned HVAC contractor based in Milpitas, licensed with CSLB #1066776 and serving homeowners since 2002 in San Jose and across 22 cities in Santa Clara, San Mateo and southern Alameda counties. There’s no better time than now to make sure your air conditioning is ready for summer. Call (408) 649-3198, Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
Spring AC maintenance questions
When should I book spring AC maintenance?
March through May is ideal, before the first hot spell. That leaves time to fix anything the technician finds before you need the AC every day.
How much does a spring AC tune-up cost?
An AC maintenance visit is $135. Comfort Club plans include yearly visits: Single System is $9.95/month or $115/year, and Full is $18.95/month or $225/year.
What does a technician check during a tune-up?
Refrigerant levels, electrical connections, the coils, the drain line, airflow and the thermostat, plus the overall condition of the system.
Do you serve San Jose?
Yes. We’re based in Milpitas and serve San Jose and the surrounding South Bay cities.
When was the last time you had your HVAC system inspected? Or even cleaned?
HVAC systems are the unsung heroes of our households. They keep our indoor spaces warm when it’s cold out and cool when it’s warm out. They do this tirelessly every day, and usually without a break!
Of course, as your home’s workhorse, ongoing HVAC maintenance is required to ensure it continues to heat and cool your home without issue. If you’ve never considered HVAC maintenance before, here are five reasons why it’s essential:
1. Does maintenance mean fewer costly repairs?
Yes. One of the most important reasons for HVAC preventative maintenance is to identify potential issues before they become expensive repairs. An experienced HVAC service technician will be able to tell which parts are worse for wear and which are in excellent shape, which means you’ll have the opportunity to fix or replace certain HVAC parts before it’s too late.
2. Does maintenance help my system last longer?
It does. Many heating and cooling systems last 15 years or more with good care. Without regular HVAC maintenance, however, parts wear out sooner. Even if your HVAC system never has a worn-out part, something as simple as a dirty fan can make the motor work harder and burn out faster.
3. Can maintenance lower my energy bills?
A well-functioning HVAC system runs more efficiently. When dirty and worn-out parts put stress on your motor, your HVAC has to work harder to keep your home comfortable. That leads to higher energy bills that tend to creep up as more time goes by.
Keeping up with HVAC maintenance keeps your system running efficiently and your energy bill steadier.
4. Does maintenance help indoor air quality?
When your HVAC system is kept clean and its parts are in good working order, its filter does a better job of trapping pollen, pet dander and dust. That means less dust circulating through your home.
Part of HVAC preventive maintenance is cleaning and checking the filter, which helps keep the air moving through your home cleaner for you and your family.
5. Does maintenance make my system safer and more reliable?
Yes. The last thing you want is for your HVAC system to break down in the middle of summer, when temperatures become uncomfortable. The same goes for winter. Very hot or very cold rooms are hardest on young children, older family members and pets.
By keeping up with regular HVAC maintenance, you help keep the system reliable all year and your family comfortable and safe.
How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance?
Most HVAC professionals recommend scheduling preventative maintenance twice per year to keep your system in the best possible shape: once for cooling and once for heating.
When
What gets checked
Spring, before cooling season
AC tune-up: coils, refrigerant pressures, electrical parts, drain line and airflow
Fall, before heating season
Furnace or heat pump check: burners or heating mode, safety controls, venting, electrical parts and airflow
Every 1–3 months
Replace the filter yourself
An AC or furnace maintenance visit is $135. If you’d rather not keep track, our Comfort Club covers it. The Full plan ($18.95/month or $225/year) includes 2 maintenance visits a year for heating and cooling, or a heat pump system. The Single System plan ($9.95/month or $115/year) includes 1 visit a year for one furnace or one AC. Members also get priority service, a $49 diagnostic for Comfort Club members and 15% off repairs.
Key takeaway: Two maintenance visits a year, one before summer and one before winter, plus a fresh filter every 1–3 months, is the simplest way to avoid surprise repairs and keep your system running longer.
If you’ve been putting off maintenance, it’s a good time to get in touch with our air conditioning and heating professionals. Upgrade Home Services is a family-owned HVAC contractor based in Milpitas, licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB #1066776) and serving homeowners since 2002. We work across 22 cities in Santa Clara, San Mateo and southern Alameda counties. Call (408) 649-3198, Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
HVAC maintenance questions
How much does HVAC maintenance cost?
An AC or furnace maintenance visit is $135. Comfort Club plans include maintenance visits: the Full plan is $18.95/month or $225/year for 2 visits a year, and the Single System plan is $9.95/month or $115/year for 1 visit a year.
How often should my HVAC system be serviced?
Twice a year works best for most homes: an AC tune-up in spring and a heating check in fall. Heat pumps run in both seasons, so they benefit from two visits a year too.
What can I do myself between visits?
Replace the filter every 1–3 months, keep about 2 feet clear around the outdoor unit, and don’t close vents in rooms you don’t use. Leave electrical and refrigerant checks to a technician.
Do you maintain all brands?
Yes. We service every major brand, including Amana, Carrier, Payne, Goodman, Daikin and Mitsubishi.
Forget about spring: summer is right around the corner. With rising temperatures and the high cost of living, the last thing you want is for your air conditioning system to break down in the middle of the season. You also want to make sure it’s working efficiently so you and your family stay cool while your energy bills stay low.
Here are the top tips from the professionals on how to do just that:
1. When should I upgrade my AC unit?
When it shows its age. Many AC systems last 15 years or more, but they begin to lose efficiency as they age, especially without proper maintenance. A few telltale signs that it’s time for a new AC unit include:
Unusual sounds or smells when it’s turned on
The need for constant repairs
Uneven cooling across the rooms of your home
A malfunctioning thermostat
High energy bills
If you do have to upgrade your AC unit, choose a high-efficiency model. Efficiency is shown as a SEER2 rating (a measure of how much cooling you get for the electricity used); the higher the number, the less it costs to run. Estimates for AC replacement are free, with a clear written quote.
2. How often should I clean or change my AC filter?
Every 1–3 months, and more often in a dusty summer. Your air conditioning system is constantly pulling in dirt, dust and debris as it circulates air. When the filter gets dirty and clogged, airflow drops and the system loses efficiency.
To make sure your AC unit is ready for summer, clean or change the filter consistently.
3. How much space does my outdoor AC unit need?
Keep about 2 feet clear all around it. Air conditioning systems depend on good air circulation to perform properly, so keep the area around your outdoor unit free of debris and any plants growing around it.
4. How can I reduce heat gain in my home?
Heat gain is the heat that enters your home from the sun, appliances and electronics. More heat gain means more energy use, because your air conditioning system has to work harder to bring indoor temperatures down.
To reduce heat gain, you’ll want to:
Seal any gaps, cracks and holes around doors, windows and ductwork
Insulate your attic well to keep cool air in
Consider energy-efficient windows (or window tint)
Add awnings, curtains or blinds to block the sun’s rays
Plant trees and shrubs around your home for extra shade
Reducing heat gain keeps your air conditioning system from going into overdrive and possibly wearing out at the most inconvenient time.
5. Do I need a professional AC tune-up every year?
Yes, once a year before summer is the best habit. Keeping up with AC maintenance is key to the health and life of your system. While you can do the tips above on your own, it’s best to leave the air conditioning and heating maintenance to the professionals.
AC technicians are trained to work with all kinds of units. They know how to keep your air conditioning system clean and in good working order from the inside out, so it lasts for years to come. An AC tune-up is $135.
Tip
Who does it
How often
Clean or change the filter
You
Every 1–3 months
Clear 2 feet around the outdoor unit
You
Start of summer, then as needed
Cut heat gain (shades, sealing, insulation)
You
Once, then keep up
Professional AC tune-up
A technician
Once a year, before summer
Check whether an old unit is due for replacement
A technician, during a visit
When repairs or bills keep climbing
Key takeaway: Keep the filter clean and the outdoor unit clear yourself, and book a $135 AC tune-up before the hot weather. Comfort Club members get their maintenance visits included.
Keeping an eye on your air conditioning system and getting your home ready for summer is the best way to keep indoor temperatures comfortable. Let the professionals at Upgrade Home Services help you get your AC system ready. We’re a family-owned HVAC contractor in Milpitas, licensed with CSLB #1066776 and serving homeowners since 2002 across 22 cities in Santa Clara, San Mateo and southern Alameda counties. Call (408) 649-3198 to schedule your HVAC maintenance.
Summer AC questions
How much is an AC tune-up?
An AC maintenance visit is $135. With the Comfort Club, the Single System plan ($9.95/month or $115/year) includes 1 visit a year for one AC, and the Full plan ($18.95/month or $225/year) includes 2 visits a year for heating and cooling.
When is the best time to book AC maintenance?
In spring, before the first hot spell. That gives time to fix anything the technician finds before you need the AC every day.
How do I know if my AC needs replacing instead of repair?
Age, frequent repairs, uneven cooling and rising bills are the usual signs. A technician can look at your system and give you a free estimate on a new one if it makes sense.
What are your hours?
We’re open Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM, and closed Sunday.
