When was the last time you had a heating or air conditioner unit tune-up?

If you answered more than a year ago (or even never), you could be throwing your hard-earned money out the window. But there's good news — when your HVAC system is serviced regularly, it can work more efficiently, for longer. And that means less energy used and lower utility bills for you!

Let's Talk Numbers

Air conditioners use more than 6% of all the electricity produced in the U.S. each year, according to the Department of Energy (DOE). Similarly, the DOE estimates that heating systems account for 29% of the average American's utility bill. But even though they're some of the most-used systems in American homes, they can lose 5-15% efficiency each year when they're not maintained properly. And when those years of neglect add up, you could be paying thousands to replace your units when it could have lasted much longer. In fact, the national average cost to replace an entire HVAC system is around $7,000.

What Exactly is a Tune-Up?

Typically, an HVAC tune-up will consist of a certified technician cleaning your AC unit's condenser coils — which can increase efficiency and reduce energy costs. Thermostats on both heating and cooling units will be checked to ensure functionality and both fittings and electrical connections will be tightened and secured. They will also inspect your system’s moving parts, which can include blower components and more, and complete any required cleaning or adjustments. All the tasks completed by your technician during this service will help reduce wear and tear on your system and keep it running at its best.

A technician inspects a furnace in the ceiling of a home with a flashlight

Related: Get Your Home's HVAC System Ready for Fall

What You Can Do

HVAC tune-up benefits can be felt even more when you combine them with regular at-home maintenance. The DOE recommends regular cleaning or replacement of your air filters to maintain your system's efficiency. Dirty air filters not only filter dusty, dirty air back into your home, they also slow down airflow and cause your system to overwork. The good news? Cleaning or replacing your air filter is a simple task you can do yourself with no professional help needed. Just check out our guide on Air Filter Replacement Tips for HVAC Systems.

Pro tip: The more you use your central heating and air conditioning, the more often you'll want to change the filters in those units. For people who run their AC and heating a lot, people with pets, or those suffering from allergies, changing the filter as often as once a month is a good idea.

What First American Can Do

The lifespan of most home air conditioners is 12-15 years and furnaces from 15-20 years. However, this timeline can vary based on use and maintenance. You can help extend the life of your system by scheduling a minimum twice-yearly HVAC tune-up.

Typically, AC tune-up cost is around $100-200. Think of it as an air conditioner check-up, just like your annual physical at the doctor's office. Heating system tune-ups work much the same way and typically cost anywhere from $70-$200, depending on whether your furnace uses gas, electric, or oil for fuel. It's important to note that if you haven't been maintaining your system regularly, your first tune-up visit may be a bit pricier to get your units back in peak condition.

So, how can you keep tune-ups within your budget? First American offers optional HVAC tune-up coverage that includes two pre-season tune-ups. For a simple service-call fee outlined in your contract, you can have your system tuned up once in the spring, and once in the fall. This way, you can budget for the exact cost instead of being surprised by unexpected repairs.

Pro tip: Refrigerant may need to be topped off or replaced, but we offer home warranty plans with no coverage limits on the amount and cost of refrigerant needed. Read more about home HVAC recharges.

Home Warranty Coverage for HVAC Systems and More

Even with regular HVAC yearly maintenance, costs to replace systems and appliances that unexpectedly break down can add up. With a home warranty from First American, you save money on unexpected repair or HVAC replacement costs in the long run with regular AC and heating system tune-ups. If your HVAC system stops working, simply follow the steps for how to request service, and we'll start the repair or replacement process right away.

Related: Why Is Your AC Making That Noise?

If you're already a First American home warranty customer with optional HVAC tune-up coverage, be sure to contact us or go online to schedule your twice-yearly tune-up during the fall and spring.* Or if you're looking into home warranty coverage for the first time, get a free quote to see what coverage would work best for you and your home.

*Add these dates to your calendar to take advantage of this benefit:

Between September 1 and November 30: Schedule your fall tune-up.
Between February 1 and April 30: Schedule your spring tune-up.

The contents of this article are provided for general guidance only. First American Home Warranty does not assume any responsibility for losses or damages as a result of using this information.

Please be aware that if you disassemble a covered system or item, it can invalidate your home warranty or manufacturer's warranty.