Don’t Wait—Why Now Is the Best Time for AC Maintenance, HVAC Pros Say

• Spring is the best time for AC maintenance and you shouldn’t wait until summer.
• Spring maintenance can save you money and avoid problems on the hottest days.
• Homeowners can do some of the maintenance themselves, like replacing air filters.

The sweltering heat of summer is often a reminder to have our air conditioners serviced. However, the best time for homeowners to get air conditioning maintenance is spring.

“Spring is when your system has been sitting idle for months, gathering dust and debris, so it’s the perfect time for a tune-up before the summer rush,” says Jordan Fleming, HVAC expert and owner of That HVAC Guy & Plumbing. “I tell my customers that a little maintenance now means a stress-free summer, lower energy bills, and no sweaty surprises when temperatures soar.”

So don’t wait—we asked HVAC pros to explain why spring is the best time for AC maintenance.

Why Is Spring the Best Time for AC Maintenance?

Some homeowners may put off servicing the air conditioner until they run into an issue and are left to deal with the heat of summer with nothing but a fan.

“Spring is the perfect time to service your AC because it ensures your system is running efficiently before the summer heat hits,” says David Cannestra, Licensed HVAC Contractor and Owner of Chill Squad Air-Conditioning.

He says that waiting until summer risks having AC problems when you need your air conditioner the most, and when HVAC companies are at their busiest.

“Plus, maintenance in spring helps lower cooling costs by improving efficiency, ensuring your condenser is clean, and allowing proper airflow through the coil,” Cannestra says.

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What Does an HVAC Professional Do During a Service Visit?

Some homeowners may think that skipping air conditioner maintenance will save money without any negative repercussions. However, neglecting the AC system can cause existing problems to go unnoticed and worsen over time.

If the AC unit doesn’t receive the attention it needs, that will result in higher energy bills throughout the hottest months of the year.

“I treat every system like it’s my own, starting with a full inspection to spot potential issues before they get worse,” Fleming says. “Coils get cleaned, refrigerant levels checked, and I flush the drain line because a clogged drain can cause water damage inside your home.”

Below, Cannestra provides a brief check list of the basic steps HVAC technicians go through during a service visit to ensure your AC unit is operating efficiently:

• Check and replace air filters – Keeps airflow strong and efficient
• Inspect refrigerant levels – Ensures your system is cooling properly
• Clean condenser coils – Prevents overheating and improves efficiency
• Check electrical connections – Reduces fire risks and ensures safe operation
• Test thermostat calibration – Makes sure your system cycles on and off correctly
• Inspect blower motor and belt – Helps avoid sudden breakdowns
• Clear the condensate drain line – Prevents water damage and mold growth
• Check ductwork for leaks – Ensures cool air is distributed properly throughout your home

Benefits of Servicing the AC in Spring

Fleming suggests booking your AC maintenance visit in early spring, because you’ll be able to ensure an you get a fast appointment, you’ll avoid delays, and your technician can catch small problems before they become bigger issues.

“A tuned-up AC performs better, lasts longer, and keeps energy bills lower,” Fleming says. “Plus, I often offer spring discounts to help homeowners get ahead.”

Additionally, planning AC maintenance in the spring boosts the efficiency of the system, helps catch small issues before summer, and improves indoor air quality, especially after the home has been closed all winter long.

Even something as simple as replacing the air filters can have a big impact on the air quality.

“Removing dust, debris, and allergens helps keep your home’s air cleaner,” Cannestra says.

Can I Do AC Maintenance Myself?

There are some parts of regular air conditioner maintenance that DIYers may be able to handle on their own, depending on personal levels of skill and experience.

“I always encourage homeowners to swap out their air filters every couple of months—it’s the easiest way to keep airflow strong and your system running smoothly,” Fleming says. “Keeping the outdoor unit clear of leaves and debris helps prevent overheating.”

Beyond simply changing the air filters and cleaning the exterior of the air conditioning unit, Cannestra suggests that DIYers can also clean the air vents inside the home, check the thermostat batteries, use a microfarad reader to check the health of the capacitor, and even flush the condensate drain line with a mixture of vinegar and water to prevent clogs.

Taking these additional steps can help to keep the air conditioner in good condition for years to come.

How Can I Save on AC Maintenance Costs?

Hiring an HVAC expert to handle regular AC maintenance is the best way to keep your system operating efficiently for the longest period of time and save you money in the longterm, but there are also a few additional methods homeowners can use to save on AC maintenance costs.

“Small habits like running ceiling fans, adjusting the thermostat when you’re not home, and sealing drafty doors and windows can also reduce strain on your AC unit and keep cooling costs low,” Fleming says.

According to Cannestra, homeowners should also schedule service early to get pre-season discounts in the spring, sign up for an ongoing maintenance plan that comes with discounts and priority service, and consider using a programmable thermostat to reduce household energy use and to cut cooling costs.