Why maintenance matters here
Houston-area AC systems run long hours in high heat and humidity. That's hard on capacitors and motors, grows algae in drain lines, and loads outdoor coils with pollen and debris. Most mid-summer breakdowns we hear about trace back to something a tune-up would have caught in March.
What a professional tune-up includes
A thorough visit should cover:
- Testing capacitors, contactors and electrical connections
- Measuring refrigerant pressures and temperature split
- Cleaning or rinsing the outdoor condenser coil
- Flushing the condensate drain line and checking the float switch
- Checking blower operation and the indoor coil
- Inspecting the thermostat and filter
- For heating: igniter, flame sensor, heat exchanger inspection, and CO checks on gas furnaces
See the full tune-up checklist.
When to schedule
- Spring (March to April): cooling tune-up before the heat arrives
- Fall (October to November): heating check before the first cold front
Our Kingwood maintenance schedule lays out a simple year-round plan.
What you can do between visits
- Change the filter regularly. See filter guide.
- Keep 2 feet of clearance around the outdoor unit, and rinse off pollen in spring. See pine pollen and your AC.
- Pour a cup of distilled vinegar into the drain line access port every few months during cooling season.
- Make sure supply and return vents aren't blocked by furniture or rugs.
Airflow and ductwork
If some rooms never get comfortable, maintenance alone may not fix it. Read about ductwork and airflow.
Common questions
How often should I get my AC serviced?
Once a year at minimum, ideally in spring. If you have a gas furnace or heat pump, a fall heating check is also recommended.
Do maintenance plans save money?
They can. Many contractors offer plans with two visits a year, priority scheduling and repair discounts. Compare what's included before signing up.