Prepare Your San Antonio & Austin Home for Cooler Weather: The Ultimate HVAC Tune-Up Guide for November & December

By Air & Plumbing Today Team

As the leaves turn and the mornings in San Antonio, Lakeway and Austin start to crisp up, Texas homeowners know the drill: our “winters” might be milder than most, but those chilly November mornings dipping into the 40s°F and occasional December cold fronts can still catch you off guard. With average highs in the 60s-70s°F and lows that can plummet to freezing overnight, your HVAC system—especially the heating side—needs to be in top shape to keep your family cozy without skyrocketing energy bills or surprise breakdowns.

Don’t wait for the first frost to test your system! A professional HVAC tune-up now is your best defense. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down why pro maintenance is non-negotiable, the exact steps technicians take on your indoor and outdoor units, key differences for older vs. newer systems, how to pick the right company using online reviews, and an unbeatable local deal to get you winter-ready today.

Why Skip DIY? The Critical Role of a Professional HVAC Technician

Sure, you could change your air filter yourself, but a thorough HVAC tune-up requires specialized tools, safety gear, and expertise that only a licensed AC repair technician provides. Here’s why going pro is essential:

• Hidden Dangers Detected: Pros use combustion analyzers, leak detectors, and cameras to spot issues like cracked heat exchangers (a carbon monoxide risk) or refrigerant leaks that DIYers miss.
• Efficiency Boost: Proper tuning can improve efficiency by up to 20%, slashing your bills during those heating bursts.
• Breakdown Prevention: Early fixes prevent 80% of emergency calls—saving you hundreds in off-hours repairs.
• Warranty Protection: Many systems void warranties without annual pro service.
• Safety First: Electrical, gas, and high-voltage components demand certified handling to avoid fires or shocks.

In short: A pro tune-up extends your system’s life by 5-10 years and lessens breakdown risks by 90% during peak demand.

Inside Scoop: What Happens During Your Indoor Unit Tune-Up

Your indoor unit (furnace, air handler, or heat pump evaporator) is the heart of heating. A pro technician follows a 21-point checklist like this:

1. Thermostat Calibration: Test and recalibrate for accurate temp control—saves energy!
2. Air Filter Inspection/Replacement: Dirty filters restrict airflow, straining the blower by 15-20%.
3. Blower Motor Cleaning & Lubrication: Remove dust buildup; lubricate bearings to reduce noise and wear.
4. Coil Cleaning: Gently clean evaporator coils with approved solutions to maximize heat transfer.
5. Drain Line Clearing: Flush condensate drains to prevent water damage or mold.
6. Heat Exchanger Inspection: Visual and camera check for cracks—critical for gas furnaces to avoid CO leaks.
7. Ignition System Test: Verify burner ignition on gas units; clean flame sensors.
8. Safety Controls Testing: Limit switches, pressure switches, and rollout switches—all must function perfectly.
9. Electrical Connections: Tighten terminals, check capacitors, and measure voltage/amperage.
10. Blower Wheel & Housing: Vacuum and balance for smooth, quiet operation.
11. Ductwork Visual Check: Spot leaks or insulation issues affecting efficiency.

Time: 45-60 minutes. Result: Silently efficient heating all season.

Outdoor Unit Mastery: Tuning for Texas Winters

The outdoor condenser or heat pump handles the heavy lifting in reverse for heating. Techs brave the elements to:

1. Coil Cleaning: Power wash fins to remove debris, pollen, and Texas dust—restores 95% efficiency.
2. Fan Blade & Motor Inspection: Lubricate, balance blades, and test motor amps.
3. Electrical Checks: Voltage drops, wiring integrity, and contactor pitting.
4. Refrigerant Levels (Heat Pumps): Measure superheat/subcooling; top off if low (EPA-certified only!).
5. Defrost Cycle Test: Essential for Austin/SA heat pumps to melt ice buildup.
6. Base & Cabinet Secure: Tighten mounts; seal gaps against pests/moisture.
7. Clearance Check: Ensure 2ft around unit for airflow—no overgrown shrubs!

Time: 30-45 minutes. Pro Tip: Trim landscaping now—overgrowth cuts efficiency by 30%!

Older HVAC (10+ Years) vs. Newer Units (Under 5 Years): Tailored Maintenance

Not all systems are equal—pros customize based on age:

Older units? Budget for potential replacement—new ones pay back in 2-3 years via rebates. Newer? Keep warranty intact for free repairs!

Choose Wisely: The Power of Online Reviews

With hundreds of HVAC companies in SA/Austin, Google reviews are your #1 filter:

• Volume Matters: 100+ reviews show consistency.
• Recent & Specific: Look for “tune-up” mentions, response to issues.
• Patterns: 4.8+ stars, photos, before/afters = trustworthy.
• Red Flags: Vague complaints, no replies.

Pro Tip: Cross-check Yelp, BBB, Angi for full picture.

Meet Your Local Heroes: Air & Plumbing Today—Over 3,500 5-Star Google Reviews!

As a family-owned, local company serving San Antonio, Austin, and Lakeway for years, Air & Plumbing Today lives these reviews. With over 3,500 glowing 5-star Google testimonials, we’re voted #1 for AC & Plumbing—praised for prompt, honest, expert service!

• NATE-Certified Techs: Factory-trained on all brands.
• 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.
• Upfront Pricing—no surprises.
• 24/7 Emergency Response.

UNBEATABLE OFFER: The “Mucho Manny Fall Tune-Up Deal” – Just $29! 

Get your system winter-proof with our Deluxe Fall Heater Tune-Up + BONUSES:

• Heater Tune-Up: Clean outdoor coil, check voltage, clear drain line, clean sensors, lubricate parts, inspect electrical, test safety controls, tighten connections, restore to factory specs.
• PLUS Whole Home Plumbing Inspection: Leaks, pressure, water heater, fixtures, hose bibs, camera main drain, indoor drains.
• PLUS Water Quality Test—FREE!

$29 Total (Reg. $500+ value)! One per household, mention coupon, expires 10/31/2025. Not valid with other offers, third-party, commercial, or new construction.

Lessen breakdown risk—book NOW!

Don’t Chill This Winter—Call TODAY! 

San Antonio: 210-519-5959 Austin/Lakeway: 512-859-5959

Schedule your Mucho Manny Heater Tune Up Deal and breathe easy through November & December. Limited spots—call NOW!

Air & Plumbing Today—TACLA #49866E | Proudly Serving Texas Families See All Coupons | Read Our 3,500+ Reviews