As summer approaches in Phoenix, Arizona, one thing is certain: the desert heat is no joke. With temperatures regularly soaring above 110°F, a well-functioning air conditioning system isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity. That’s why spring is the perfect time to schedule your AC maintenance and ensure your system is ready for the brutal months ahead.
Why AC Maintenance Is More Important Than Ever in Phoenix
Annual air conditioning maintenance might seem like an optional task, but in the Valley of the Sun, it’s essential. A tune-up ensures your system is running efficiently, helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, and can even extend the life of your unit. Neglecting maintenance increases the risk of system failure when you need cooling the most — during a heatwave. Without AC, temps can reach 90+ degrees inside.
Catch Problems Before They Turn into Emergencies
One of the biggest advantages of preseason maintenance is early detection. A technician can identify worn parts, leaks, or electrical issues before they cause a full-blown system failure. Catching problems early means you can schedule repairs at your convenience — not in the middle of a weekend emergency when the temperature outside is 115°F and HVAC companies are slammed with calls. Furthermore, by identifying & replacing worn-out parts or out of the manufacturers now, there is a high likelihood that your system can continue to serve you throughout the summer.
Don’t purchase a cheap or loss leader AC Tune Up
When it comes to air conditioning maintenance, the saying “you get what you pay for” couldn’t be truer. Cheap or low-cost AC maintenance services often cut corners, skipping critical steps like thoroughly inspecting refrigerant levels, cleaning the condenser coils, and testing electrical components. Many budget services are nothing more than a quick visual inspection, which won’t catch potential issues that could lead to expensive breakdowns in the middle of summer. Worse yet, some companies offering rock-bottom prices may use full-commissioned technicians just there to upsell you a la carte services and unnecessary repairs. The dirty little secret in the HVAC industry is most companies only pay technicians when they sell you parts and services. A reputable, thorough maintenance service may cost more upfront, but it ensures your system runs efficiently, lasts longer, and prevents costly emergency repairs when you need your AC the most.
HVAC Replacement Costs Are Rising
A good reason for taking the time and effort to maintain your system is the changes driving up replacement costs.
In recent years, the cost of installing a new HVAC system has climbed significantly. Supply chain issues, inflation, and increased demand have all driven prices upward. In 2020, a new residential HVAC unit might cost between $5,000 and $8,000. Today, many homeowners see quotes upwards of $10,000 to $15,000 for similar systems, especially when you factor in installation, upgraded components, and energy-efficient models. Furthermore, several recent market changes, including government tariffs and 410A refrigerant decommissioning, further drive-up HVAC system replacement costs. In an interview with Todd Russo of Reeis Air Conditioning, he noted that January and February reports by the air conditioning manufacturers show eminent increases of 12-14%. Coupled with global tariffs, the price of HVAC units will skyrocket this summer.
With these costs in mind, it makes more sense than ever to protect the investment you already have. Regular maintenance — including cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, replacing filters, and inspecting key components — is a small price to pay compared to the cost of a full replacement.
Energy Efficiency and Lower Bills
An efficient air conditioner doesn’t just keep you cool — it also saves you money. A poorly maintained system can lose up to 5% of its efficiency each year, meaning your unit has to work harder (and use more electricity) to cool your home. In a place like Phoenix, where AC runs for months nonstop, even small inefficiencies can lead to major spikes in your energy bill.
Book Early, Beat the Rush
Don’t wait until June, when every HVAC company in the Valley is booked out for weeks. Spring is the best time to schedule a maintenance visit, when technicians have more availability and can give your system the attention it deserves. Many companies offer preseason specials or discounts, making it even more affordable.
Bottom Line
If you live in Phoenix, air conditioning isn’t optional — it’s critical to staying safe and comfortable. With the cost of a new HVAC system higher than ever, now is the time to protect your investment. Schedule your maintenance before the summer rush and rest easy knowing your AC will be ready to handle whatever the desert throws at it.
Stay cool, stay safe — and take care of that AC!
Rosie on the House partner Reeis Air Conditioning charges $169.99 for their Happy Home Club Advanced A/C maintenance for existing customers. Reeis also offers a $80 discount to new customers, bringing the cost of the maintenance down to $89.99. The Reeis Happy Home Club also offers memberships with annual filter subscriptions, plumbing maintenance, and electrical inspections for slightly more.
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CONTENT PARTNER | Reeis Air Conditioning
Reeis is a home performance contracting company. We like to say “Reeis Home Performance is better than just air conditioning.” That’s because we deliver guaranteed results by analyzing and improving more than just the A/C. Reeis carries multiple contractor’s licenses, certifications and affiliations. We have a sincere commitment to training our certified staff in a variety of disciplines such as: heating and air conditioning, insulation techniques, solar heat gain, air flow, pressure balancing and more.
PODCAST
April 19, 2025
A well functioning air conditioning system isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity in the hot desert months or any other place where cooling is needed. Todd Russo of Reeis Air Conditioning discussed the importance of regular maintenance, airflow and proper installation are key for a longer lasting unit. Plus a rising A/C industry trend you should be aware of before making any decisions on repairs.
Original Broadcast Archive Page With Expanded Content
PHOTO CREDIT
- IStock
