What You’ll Learn
What does an AC maintenance inspection actually cover?
A professional AC inspection includes 18 specific checks—from testing thermostats and electrical connections to cleaning condensate drains and inspecting blower motors.
Each step ensures your system runs efficiently, catches small problems before they become emergencies, and keeps your home cool all summer.
18-Point AC Inspection:
This blog was updated February 2026.
The first heatwave of summer hits, and your AC groans to life.
Then it stops. The house gets warmer. Then hotter.
By the time you get through to an HVAC company, they’re booked solid for two weeks.
This scene plays out every year for homeowners who wait until something breaks to think about their AC.
The ones who stay cool? They scheduled their maintenance back in the spring and are enjoying their post-inspection conditioned air.
The Importance of Regular AC Maintenance
Annual maintenance is the key to ensuring your air conditioning system operates smoothly during the summer months.
You’ll want to schedule this maintenance in spring to avoid the busy season or risk your AC going out on peak heat days.
You don’t want to find the technicians booked because 5 other units went out right before yours.
Don’t delay—contact your AC service provider today to sign up for an AC maintenance plan or schedule your yearly maintenance.
Here’s how your inspection will go…
Multi-point AC Inspection
1. Inspect Air Filter Housing & Air Seal
The air filter is your AC system’s first line of defense against dust and debris. A clean filter promotes better indoor air quality, reduces strain on the system, and enhances overall efficiency.
The housing and air seal are checked to make sure they are still preventing unfiltered air from entering the system.
Filters need to be replaced every 1-3 months, depending on usage and filter type.
2. Test Control Operations
Proper control operations, or the temperature controls, humidistats, and airstats, are responsible for regulating temperature and ensuring your AC responds accurately to your thermostat settings.
The controls are tested using a multimeter to guarantee seamless communication between the thermostat and the AC unit, optimizing its performance and energy efficiency.
3. Test Thermostat Operation
A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to temperature discrepancies and increased energy consumption.
Your thermostat’s calibration and responsiveness are tested, allowing you to maintain a comfortable living environment while minimizing energy waste.
As a rule of thumb, you should check the batteries every 3-4 months.
4. Test & Inspect Drain Pan Safety Switches
The drain pan beneath your AC unit prevents water damage by collecting condensate.
Safety switches are tested to ensure they function correctly, preventing potential water overflow that could damage your home and the AC system itself.
5. Clean Condensate Drains as Needed
Clogged condensate drains can lead to water damage and mold growth.
Any blockages are cleared from the condensate drains, allowing condensate to flow freely and preventing potential issues that could compromise your indoor air quality.
6. Inspect Electrical Disconnect Box
The electrical disconnect box is a critical component that allows for safe maintenance and repairs.
The box is examined to ensure it’s in good condition, minimizing the risk of electrical hazards.
7. Check Unit Grounding
Proper grounding is crucial, and most systems won’t work if they aren’t grounded correctly.
It’s verified that your AC system is effectively grounded, reducing the risk of electrical shocks and enhancing the safety of your home.
8. Measure & Record Line Voltage
The line voltage is measured and recorded to identify any irregularities that may affect performance or contribute to premature equipment failure.
Correct line voltage is vital for the proper functioning of your AC system.
9. Inspect & Test Contactors & Relays
Contactors and relays play a pivotal role in controlling electrical currents.
These components are tested to ensure they operate smoothly, reducing the risk of electrical malfunctions and extending the lifespan of your AC unit.
10. Inspect Electrical Connections & Wire
Faulty electrical connections can lead to overheating and system failures.
The electrical connections and wiring are meticulously inspected, and any loose connections are tightened to prevent potential electrical issues.
11. Inspect All Stand-Alone Capacitors
Capacitors are responsible for regulating electrical currents in your AC system.
All stand-alone capacitors are checked to ensure they are in good condition, promoting smooth operation and preventing potential electrical failures.
12. Inspect Blower Motor
The blower motor is responsible for circulating conditioned air throughout your home.
The blower motor is inspected to ensure it operates efficiently, promoting optimal airflow and preventing uneven cooling.
13. Inspect Blower Wheel
The blower wheel works in conjunction with the blower motor to move air through the system.
The blower wheel is inspected for any debris or damage, ensuring it functions properly to maintain consistent air circulation.
14. Inspect Condenser Fan
The condenser fan pulls the dissipating heat away from the refrigerant, which cools the air down so it can be blown into your home.
The condenser fan is inspected to ensure it operates smoothly, promoting efficient heat exchange and preventing overheating.
15. Test Condenser Fan Motor & Blower Assembly
The blower motor and assembly are responsible for pushing the condensed, cool air throughout your home. This ensures your AC system operates at its peak performance, maximizing energy efficiency.
The condenser fan motor and blower assembly are tested to make sure they are working together properly.
16. Inspect & Clean Condensate Drain & Traps
Condensate drains the water collected while condensing the air and guides it out of the unit. Condensate traps stop conditioned air from being blown outside or pooling in your air handler
Both can accumulate debris, leading to clogs and potential water damage.
The drain and traps are inspected and cleaned, preventing blockages that could compromise the effectiveness of your AC system.
17. Test Condensate Pump
If your AC unit has a condensate pump, it’s to prevent it from being stuck in a crawlspace, basement, attic, or anywhere you don’t need cool air.
The pump is tested to make sure it’s pushing air at the correct rate.
18. Inspect Capacitors
Capacitors are critical for various functions in your AC system.
The capacitors are inspected to identify any signs of wear or damage, replacing them as needed to maintain the system’s efficiency and reliability.
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We won’t leave you to sweat this summer.
Be proactive and don’t wait until your house feels like an oven to get your AC maintenance.
Become a Kauffman Gas customer today to stay cool all summer long.
FAQs
When should I schedule AC maintenance?
Schedule your AC maintenance in early spring, before the summer heat arrives.
This helps you avoid the busy season when technicians are booked solid and ensures your unit is ready for peak performance.
How often should I replace my AC filter?
Filters should be replaced every 1-3 months, depending on usage and the type of filter you have.
A clean filter promotes better indoor air quality, reduces strain on the system, and enhances overall efficiency.
How does cleaning the condenser fan help my AC?
The condenser fan pulls heat away from the refrigerant to cool the air before it’s blown into your home.
Inspecting and cleaning it ensures efficient heat exchange and prevents overheating.
What’s included in an electrical inspection for my AC?
Technicians check the electrical disconnect box, unit grounding, line voltage, contactors, relays, and all electrical connections.
Loose connections are tightened to prevent overheating and system failures, and proper grounding reduces the risk of electrical shocks.