One of the most common questions we get during home inspections at Checklist AZ is:
“How often should I service my HVAC system?”
It’s a great question — especially in a hot, dry climate like Phoenix. Your HVAC system isn’t just a luxury here — it’s essential. And just like your car needs regular oil changes, your heating and cooling system needs regular servicing to perform efficiently.
Annual Servicing Is a Must — But Timing Is Everything
Once a Year Is the Bare Minimum
According to most manufacturers, you should service your HVAC system at least once per year. However, many professionals — including us — recommend twice a year, especially for older systems.
Here’s a good rule of thumb:
- Newer units: Service once a year
- Older units (5+ years): Service every 6 months
Think of HVAC servicing as essential preventative care — not an optional luxury.
Spring is the Best Time to Schedule
In Arizona, spring is the ideal time to service your HVAC. Why? Because:
- It’s before peak AC season
- It ensures your unit is ready to handle extreme summer heat
- You avoid breakdowns in July or August when you need cool air the most
In colder climates, fall may be the priority. But in Phoenix, it’s our air conditioning that does the heavy lifting, not our heaters.
What’s Included in a Professional HVAC Tune-Up?
A quality HVAC service goes beyond a quick check. Here’s what technicians should do:
- Clean condenser and evaporator coils
- Check refrigerant (freon) levels and rebalance if needed
- Inspect the blower, fans, and wiring
- Test system efficiency and thermostat calibration
Skipping this yearly service could cost you big — in both energy bills and potential breakdowns.
Avoid the August AC Emergency
The worst time to discover your AC isn’t working? Mid-August in Phoenix.
When temperatures soar past 110°F, your system is under enormous stress. If it’s not cleaned, serviced, or fully charged, it can:
- Run inefficiently (raising energy costs)
- Strain the compressor and fan
- Stop working entirely during the hottest days of the year
A simple spring service visit can prevent all of that.
HVAC Servicing = HVAC Longevity
An annual tune-up does more than protect you during the summer. It also:
- Helps extend the life of your system
- Maintains manufacturer warranty compliance
- Gives you peace of mind all season long
Checklist AZ recommends booking your HVAC service before May. If your unit is older, or if you’ve skipped previous check-ups, consider scheduling both spring and fall tune-ups.
👉 Call Checklist AZ at 480-361-8120 today to schedule your home inspection — and get a referral to trusted HVAC professionals in your area.
We serve homeowners across Arizona with expert advice and detailed inspections that go beyond the basics.
