How to Choose a Maintenance Plan

This can be a difficult and tricky decision. First, you need to find an honest, reputable and well established service company. Many companies offer a special once a year rate to come out and inspect your system from top to bottom without signing a contract. This is just a good as a contract except you do not receive any discounts if repairs are needed during the year.

Before you sign or say yes, ask what is involved and included with the inspection. You want one which includes but not limited to:

Condenser

• Pressure check
• Visual inspection of wiring for loose or corroded connections
• Visual inspection for presence of oil which may indicate the need for repairs
• Oil motor bearings (when possible)
• Tightening all hardware
• Measure current draw. Excessive amperage is a sign of motor damage.
• Visual inspection of condenser coils for damage and restrictions

Air Handler/ Evaporator

• Visual inspection of wiring for loose or corroded connections
  (minor repairs should be included at no extra cost)
• Oil motor bearings (when possible)
• Clean or replace filter
• Tightening all hardware
• Inspection of condensation drain, pan, pump, auxiliary pan. Cleaning the drain system should be included at no extra charge.
• Inspect evaporator coils. They need to be free of damage and clean.

Duct System

The entire duct system should be checked at least once a year for leaks
and damage. If you are pulling in un-conditioned air, the cooling efficiency will be
lost and the evaporator coils will become dirty.

Overall

Ask questions. A good company will not mind explaining what you are paying for.