A/C Tune-up?

Question

My local power company is offering a $75 rebate for an A/C tune-up.  I'm curious to know whether this is something recommended for A/C units or just a waste of money?

Most of the quotes I have received for this service range from $95-140.  I'm just wondering if this is a way that the A/C contractor will try and up sale me on something else or this is a legit thing to do for A/C units every couple of years

Matt Devincenzo · Answer

Yes the "tune up" is legit. You may get some contractors trying to upsell, but the basic function is beneficial. They usually do things like clean your coils, check and top off the coolant(freon), and just basically verify everything is operating properly. Check to see what is included with each contractor, usually on the coolant the service will come with up to 1 lbs of freon included or some amount so for those that don't make sure you know how much they charge for it if they do add any.

The benefit to you and the power company is that the unit cools more efficiently because any of the grime in the coils blocks the transfer of hot/cold and the low freon level will make the unit work harder and runs longer to cool the same amount.

Rick L. · Answer

Hi Al Williamson  I do not pay for AC/electric, but if the tune-up would prolong the life of the ac units then I figured it would be worth it.  The electric company is offer a $75 rebate/unit.  After calling several AC contractors, the average "AC Tune-up" will cost a total of around $140.  So, my out of pocket expense would be roughly $75/unit.

Al Williamson · Answer

Rick L. are you paying the AC bill? What do you estimate is your breakeven on the tune up?