What an HVAC Service Technician Does During a Service Visit | Expert Guide

What Does an HVAC Service Technician Actually Do During a Service Visit?

If you've ever scheduled an HVAC tune-up, you may have wondered: What does an HVAC service technician actually do during a service visit? Whether it’s for preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, or seasonal inspection, a professional technician follows a detailed checklist to ensure your system runs efficiently and safely.

In this guide, we’ll break down the step-by-step tasks a qualified HVAC service technician performs during a typical service visit.

Why Routine HVAC Service Visits Matter

Regular HVAC maintenance isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential for:

• Preventing breakdowns
  
  

• Improving energy efficiency
  
  

• Extending system lifespan
  
  

• Ensuring safe operation
  
  

• Maintaining indoor air quality
  
  

Scheduling biannual visits (typically in spring and fall) helps homeowners avoid costly repairs and ensures the system is ready for extreme weather conditions.

What Does an HVAC Service Technician Do? A Step-by-Step Overview

1. Initial System Inspection

The technician starts by performing a full inspection of your HVAC system. This includes:

• Checking the thermostat settings
  
  

• Inspecting visible ductwork for leaks or damage
  
  

• Evaluating air filters
  
  

• Assessing the general condition of the unit
  
  

✅ Goal: Identify immediate issues or performance red flags.

2. Checking Electrical Components

Safety and performance rely heavily on properly functioning electrical parts. The technician will:

• Tighten all electrical connections
  
  

• Test voltage and amperage levels
  
  

• Inspect circuit boards and wiring
  
  

• Ensure the safety controls are working properly
  
  

✅ Goal: Prevent electrical failures and fire hazards.

3. Lubricating Moving Parts

Any moving components—like motors, fans, and belts—must be lubricated to reduce friction and wear.

• Motor bearings are oiled or greased
  
  

• Belts and pulleys are checked for alignment and tension
  
  

✅ Goal: Maximize efficiency and reduce mechanical wear.

4. Testing System Performance

The HVAC service technician will run a full system test to ensure everything operates as expected:

• Measure temperature differentials
  
  

• Test system startup and shutdown cycles
  
  

• Verify air pressure and flow
  
  

✅ Goal: Confirm the system runs smoothly under normal operating conditions.

5. Inspecting the Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Over time, coils can accumulate dirt and debris, reducing the system’s efficiency.

• Clean condenser coils (outdoor unit)
  
  

• Check evaporator coils (indoor unit)
  
  

• Remove debris and ensure proper heat transfer
  
  

✅ Goal: Restore optimal energy performance.

6. Checking Refrigerant Levels

The technician will:

• Measure refrigerant pressure
  
  

• Check for leaks
  
  

• Recharge refrigerant if needed (if allowed and safe)
  
  

✅ Goal: Ensure the cooling system works efficiently and avoids compressor damage.

7. Clearing the Condensate Drain Line

Blocked condensate lines can cause water damage and mold growth.

• Technician clears the drain
  
  

• Inspects the pan for cracks or rust
  
  

• Adds algae tablets if needed
  
  

✅ Goal: Prevent leaks and maintain indoor air quality.

8. Reviewing the Thermostat and System Controls

Proper calibration of your thermostat is critical for comfort and energy savings.

• Recalibrate thermostat if needed
  
  

• Test communication between the thermostat and HVAC unit
  
  

• Recommend upgrades if using an outdated thermostat
  
  

✅ Goal: Enhance temperature accuracy and system efficiency.

How Long Does an HVAC Service Visit Take?

A typical visit by a professional HVAC service technician lasts between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the system type, size, and condition.

What Should You Expect After the Visit?

Once the technician completes the inspection and tune-up, they will:

• Provide a detailed service report
  
  

• Recommend repairs or parts replacements if needed
  
  

• Offer tips for maintaining your system between visits
  
  

Final Thoughts

So, what does an HVAC service technician actually do during a service visit? Quite a lot! From inspecting components to ensuring optimal performance and safety, their work plays a vital role in keeping your HVAC system reliable and efficient.