What to Expect from an AC Maintenance Service

Let’s be honest—when everything’s running smoothly, your air conditioner probably isn’t top of mind. But the moment it starts acting up during a Carolina heatwave, it quickly becomes the star of the show. That’s where regular AC maintenance comes in—think of it as a wellness check-up for your comfort system.
At Call Dad, we like to say: “You wouldn’t skip an oil change on your car, so why skip maintenance on your AC?” Let’s walk you through exactly what to expect during an AC maintenance visit—and why it’s one of the smartest (and most cost-saving) things you can do for your home.
Why Regular AC Maintenance Is a Game-Changer
AC maintenance isn’t just about preventing breakdowns—though that’s a big part of it. It’s also about:
- Extending the lifespan of your system
- Improving energy efficiency (lower energy bills = more ice cream runs)
- Catching small problems before they become big, expensive ones
- Improving indoor air quality and overall comfort
- Keeping your warranty valid (most manufacturers require annual service)
So… What Happens During an AC Maintenance Visit?
When you schedule a maintenance visit with Call Dad, you’re not just getting a quick once-over. You’re getting a comprehensive service from a trained HVAC tech who treats your home like their own (and probably tells a dad joke or two). Here's a breakdown of what we include in every AC tune-up:
1. Full System Inspection
We start with a thorough check of the entire system—indoor and outdoor units. This includes:
- Checking the thermostat settings and calibration
- Inspecting the air handler and blower motor
- Examining the evaporator and condenser coils for dirt or damage
- Looking for signs of refrigerant leaks, rust, or corrosion
- Checking for unusual noises or smells when the unit kicks on
If your AC has a filter that looks like it wrestled with a dust bunny and lost—we’ll let you know.
2. Cleaning Components
Dust, dirt, and debris are the enemies of efficiency. That’s why we take the time to clean:
- The condenser coils on your outdoor unit
- The evaporator coils (as needed)
- The drain pan and condensate lines to prevent clogs and mold
Pro tip: Dirty coils can reduce your system’s cooling efficiency by up to 30%. So yeah… it’s a big deal.

3. Checking Refrigerant Levels
Your AC relies on the right amount of refrigerant to cool your home. If it’s low, that usually means there’s a leak—something we’ll look for and talk through with you. Running your system with low refrigerant isn’t just inefficient—it can cause serious damage to the compressor, which is a big-ticket repair.
4. Testing Electrical Connections & Controls
Safety first. Our techs inspect all wiring and test electrical components to make sure:
- Connections are tight and corrosion-free
- Capacitors and contactors are functioning properly
- The system powers on and off without delay
- There’s no risk of overheating or short-circuiting
Basically, we’re making sure your AC isn’t secretly training to become a fire hazard.
5. Airflow & Filter Check
Poor airflow = uneven cooling and overworked equipment. We’ll:
- Inspect and/or replace the air filter (if you have them onsite)
- Check the ductwork for leaks, blockages, or disconnections
- Measure airflow and static pressure
Clean filters and clear ducts mean better performance and cleaner air—your sinuses will thank us.
6. Check Moving Parts
Just like your knees after a long hike, your AC’s moving parts need lubrication to avoid friction and wear. This includes:
- Motor bearings
- Fan motors
This small step can prevent some seriously noisy operation down the line.
How Long Does AC Maintenance Take?
Most maintenance appointments take about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the number of systems and whether we discover any issues that need a deeper look. If we do find something, we’ll always explain the issue and your options before doing any additional work.
And yes—we clean up after ourselves, too.

What Does AC Maintenance Cost?
Costs can vary depending on the system and provider, but at Call Dad, we believe in transparency. Our standard AC maintenance service is competitively priced and includes all of the above without surprise fees or high-pressure sales tactics.
Even better? We offer seasonal maintenance plans so you never have to remember to schedule—it just gets done. One less thing on your to-do list.
What Happens If You Skip AC Maintenance?
Skipping AC maintenance is like skipping the dentist for years. At first, it might seem like nothing’s wrong—but hidden issues are building up. Here's what you risk:
- Higher utility bills (inefficiency = $$$ down the drain)
- Reduced lifespan of your unit
- Breakdowns during peak summer
- Voided warranty (most warranties require annual maintenance)
- Lower indoor air quality
Trust us—maintenance now is a lot cheaper than an emergency call in July.

Why Choose Call Dad for Your AC Maintenance?
We get it. You have a lot of choices when it comes to HVAC companies. But here’s what makes Call Dad different:
- We serve like family—no upsells, no gimmicks
- We believe small acts make big impacts
- We keep it light, friendly, and yes... a little funny (because dad jokes are kind of our thing)
- We value clear communication and honest service
You’re not just a customer to us—you’re family. And we treat your comfort like it’s our own.
Final Thoughts: Don't Wait Until It Breaks
An AC tune-up is one of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to keep your home cool, your bills low, and your summer stress-free. It’s preventative care that pays off big time.
So if your AC hasn’t had a check-up in the last year, don’t wait. Call Dad today and let us keep your system running like a champ. You’ll be glad you did (and so will your thermostat).
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