Package Unit Maintenance & Tune-Ups in Greater Houston

Our technician inspects the physical package unit (rooftop or ground-level) for visible problems:

• Corrosion and Rust — Salt air or high humidity can corrode the cabinet and fins. We note corrosion severity; heavy rust may suggest interior coil corrosion and future refrigerant leaks.
• Vibration Isolation Pad Condition — Rubber isolation pads harden and deteriorate over time. Failed pads increase noise transmission and vibration stress on roof structure. We check pad condition and recommend replacement if needed.
• Debris Accumulation — Leaves, dust, and dirt block airflow through the condenser coil. We note blockage severity.
• Refrigerant Line Condition — We visually inspect outdoor refrigerant lines for dents, kinks, or missing insulation. Damaged insulation lets moisture into the system; dents or kinks restrict refrigerant flow.
• Compressor Oil Residue — Oil traces around the unit suggest slow refrigerant leaks. We document this for pressure testing.
• Condenser Coil Cleanliness — Clogged condenser coils reduce heat rejection. We note if cleaning is needed.

We assess your home’s airflow path from return to supply:

• Air Filter Condition — We check your furnace or air handler filter. Dirty filters restrict airflow and force the compressor to work harder. We note filter type and recommend replacement intervals (typically monthly to quarterly depending on filter MERV rating and home conditions).
• Return Vent Clearance — We verify return air vents are not blocked by furniture, curtains, or other obstructions. Blocked returns starve the system of air, causing low airflow and potential coil freezing.
• Visible Ductwork Condition — For accessible ducts, we look for gaps, loose connections, or visible leaks. Leaky ductwork loses cooled or heated air, reducing efficiency and putting strain on the package unit.
• Condenser Coil Cleanliness — If blockage is noted, we recommend coil cleaning (typically an add-on service). Clean coils improve cooling capacity and efficiency.

We connect refrigerant gauges to verify charge level and cooling function:

• Low-Side and High-Side Pressure Readings — Normal readings confirm correct refrigerant charge. Low readings suggest an undetected slow leak. High readings suggest overcharge or condenser airflow blockage. Abnormal readings trigger detailed diagnosis and discussion with you about options.
• Superheat Measurement — Calculated from low-side pressure and temperature, superheat tells us if the refrigerant charge is precise. Too high means undercharge or metering device blockage. Too low means overcharge.
• Subcooling Measurement — Calculated from high-side pressure and temperature, subcooling confirms proper condenser heat rejection. We document both measurements so future service visits can compare trends.

If readings are outside spec, we don’t recharge without discussing options—is a slow leak present (requiring leak repair first), or is a simple recharge all that’s needed?

We test the electrical health of your package unit:

• Capacitor Testing — Using a multimeter, we test the capacitor(s) that start the compressor and fan motor. Aging capacitors show reduced capacitance; failed capacitors prevent the system from starting. We measure against factory specs and recommend replacement if capacity is declining.
• Contactor Testing — The contactor is an electrical switch that engages the compressor. We verify it closes and opens properly without pitting or sticking.
• Fan Motor Testing — We verify the outdoor condenser fan motor is running smoothly and at correct speed. Slow-running or noisy motors suggest bearing wear.
• Compressor Winding Resistance — Using a multimeter, we measure compressor winding resistance. Abnormal readings (very high or very low) suggest internal compressor problems.
• Thermostat Function — We verify your thermostat is reading room temperature accurately, responding to setpoint changes, and sending correct signals to the package unit. Thermostat drift (reading 75°F when actual is 73°F) forces unnecessary runtime and wastes energy.

For fall maintenance (October–November), we test your heating mode:

Electric Heating — We verify the heating element is operating. We confirm the element receives power when heating is called, glows appropriately, and that air temperature rises as expected when the heating element activates.

Gas Heating — We verify the gas supply is flowing, the ignition system fires properly, the flame sensor detects flame, and the control board is sending correct signals. We check for any unusual odors from the gas line or burner.

Heat Pump Heating — We verify refrigerant reverses to heating mode, pressure readings are in spec for heating, and the outdoor unit operates without freezing up. We confirm the thermostat correctly switches the system to heat mode.

In any case, we test both high and low heating outputs and confirm the system reaches setpoint without excessive overshoot or undershoot.

We run a complete cooling cycle with all electrical and refrigerant components operational:

• Thermostat Calls for Cooling — We set the thermostat below room temperature so the package unit compressor, blower, and condenser fan all start.
• Refrigerant Flow Verification — We verify that condenser outlet temperature is hot (rejecting heat) and evaporator inlet temperature is cold (providing cooling).
• Airflow Performance — We feel airflow at supply registers to confirm the blower is moving air through ducts. If airflow is weak, we diagnose whether a blocked filter, return vent obstruction, or internal issue is responsible.
• Pressure Stability — We observe pressure gauges throughout the cycle. Pressures should stabilize within normal range. If they rise excessively or swing erratically, it suggests system problems.
• Compressor Sound — We listen for unusual noises—grinding, squealing, or loud rattling—that suggest internal wear or mechanical problems.

If any minor adjustments are needed, we make them:

• Superheat Adjustment — If superheat is slightly off (indicating minor undercharge or overcharge), we may add a small amount of refrigerant or adjust the metering device slightly to bring charge into spec.
• Thermostat Calibration — If the thermostat is reading inaccurately, we clean sensors or recommend replacement.
• Blower Speed Optimization — If blower speed is adjustable, we optimize it for your home’s ductwork—ensuring adequate airflow without excessive noise.

We prepare a detailed maintenance report including:

• Component Test Results — All pressure readings, electrical test values, and functional test outcomes
• Findings Summary — What we found in good condition, what shows wear, and what may need attention soon
• Recommendations — Any component replacements, coil cleanings, ductwork sealing, or other services that would benefit your system
• Next Service Timeline — When to schedule your next maintenance (typically 12 months)
• Warranty Compliance Note — Documentation that your system received professional maintenance, supporting warranty coverage

We walk you through the report, answer questions, and discuss any concerns. If we recommend a repair or upgrade, we explain the cost and timeline so you can plan accordingly.