What actually is done on a semi or annual HVAC checkup? :confused:
I change my own filter, I make sure the condensation drain pipe is clear.:shrug:

Check freon levels.
I don't know why anyone would need a check 2 times a year tho.

You should also inspect the outside unit and hose it down if the coil is dirty. Also, on a hot day, you should inspect the suction line (the pipe with the black insulation) on the outside unit to see if it is cold and sweating. If it is, you probably have enough refrigerant.
But, other than that, you are probably doing everything you can to prevent a failure.

Here is the Sunkool 21 point "tune-up" list, but I wouldn't pay anything for it.

HVAC Maintenance The Villages, FL, Summerfield, FL & Oxford, FL | HVAC Maintenance Wildwood, FL, Lady Lake, FL & Leesburg, FL | Sun Kool Air Conditioning Inc.

Note that they say that they will "wash and wax" your outside unit. I don't think I have ever seen an outside unit being given a wax job. I would be surprised if Sunkool is actually doing everything on their list.

This is my point, do we really need a AC check-up every year??

If our unit's shutdown, it's because it's low on freon or your sensor on
your drainpipe was tripped.

Is there anything to lube?

Nothing to lube. I have never paid an HVAC company for maintenance. They probably make more money on maintenance than they make on actual repairs.

Sunshine Air Conditioning Inc
 

We've been very happy with Sunshine Air Conditioning Inc. Whenever we've had an issue, they have been extremely responsive. I wouldn't hesitate to have them do work on a system or install a new system.

The discount I received on a very expensive part paid for one year of maintenance. Learning that the outside capacitor was failing such that I could replace it on my schedule and not have to rush when it quit was worth something. But other than that, I agree that a homeowner can do basic maintenance at much less than $60/trip.

Note that the Sunkool 21 point tune-up doesn't even mention the capacitor.

We have been using M&S Air Conditioning for the past 6 yrs and have had a great service experience with them. Have an annual service contract with them for twice a year check ups and cleaning or any time a problem should occur.. About $179 per year.

Also had them replace our original Carrier unit with a new Mitsubishi system in 2021. Very happy with it.

Chuck Farrell

We switched out our 12 year old Carrier with a Mitsubishi unit. The Mitsubishi was an inverter, and the one suggested by the previous AC company was not. It was about the same price, and having done a little research on the differences, I chose the inverter. We used M+S Air conditioning, and they have been outstanding. Our usage is down about 10-15% from the old unit (unfortunately not the bill). One big deciding factor for us was the 12 year warranty vs the 10 year.

We only use Marc Athony. He is hones, fairly priced and reliable.

M&S has been terrific to work with. They installed a mini-split unit in our garage Mitsubishi and replaced our main unit as well. Very knowledgeable and reliable.

We called him last month, he is not taking on any more new customers !

Chuck Farrell for sure.