The answer to 'when to service central air' is that your central air conditioning system should be serviced at least once a year, typically in the spring before the cooling season begins. Regular maintenance helps ensure your system is running efficiently and can help prevent costly breakdowns during the hot summer months.
During a typical annual tune-up, an HVAC technician will clean the condenser coils, check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical components, and perform other maintenance tasks to keep your system in top shape. They may also recommend replacing air filters, which should be done every 1-3 months during the cooling season.