How Often Should You Service Your Flute?

One question every flutist asks is: How often should I get my flute serviced? The answer depends on how often you play, the condition of your flute, and your performance goals — but one thing is certain: routine maintenance is key to keeping your flute in top playing condition.

Why Regular Flute Maintenance Matters

Over time, even the highest-quality flutes experience wear and tear. Pads compress, corks dry out, screws loosen, and small leaks can start to affect your sound and response. Regular servicing ensures your flute remains responsive, in tune, and reliable, preventing larger, more expensive issues down the road.

The General Rule: A COA Every 12 Months

Flute Center recommends a Clean, Oil, and Adjust (COA) once a year.

If you’re playing daily, performing, or preparing for auditions, more frequent checkups can make a noticeable difference in your tone, articulation, and ease of playing.

What Happens During a COA?

At Flute Center, our expert repair team treats every flute with care and precision. A typical COA includes:

• Thorough cleaning of the instrument and mechanism

• Oil and lubrication of all moving parts

• Key height and spring tension adjustments

• Pad, cork, and felt inspection

• Leak testing and sealing

It’s like a spa day for your flute — restoring it to its optimal condition. Learn more by watching this video!

Signs Your Flute Might Need Service Sooner

Not sure if it's time for a tune-up? Look out for these signs:

• Sticky or unresponsive keys

• Difficulty producing clean notes

• A fuzzy or unfocused tone

• Leaks or unusual buzzing

• Loose screws or misaligned mechanisms

If you notice any of these, it’s best to book a service sooner rather than later.

Why Choose Flute Center for Repairs?

Our in-house technicians are some of the most experienced in the industry. We work with flutists of all levels and specialize in servicing professional and handmade flutes!

Bonus: We offer quick turnaround times and transparent communication every step of the way!

Book Your Flute Service Today

Ready to give your flute the care it deserves?
Schedule a repair or COA with Flute Center and keep your playing smooth, consistent, and beautiful all year long.

What Our Customers Are Saying

"My flute sings again!!!"

"While attending the 2023 National Flute Association Conference in Phoenix, AZ, I was rehearsing and performing in two adult flute choirs. On the first day, I noticed my flute was not responding well. I thought it was me. A couple of days went by and still in rehearsals, my flute became totally unplayable. I was devastated. I was scouring the convention floor, and Flute Center of New York's team of repair technicians were busily repairing flutes for the conference attendees. I approached them with my issue and, repair technician, David Sheppard, said 'let me take a look at it'. He found leaks and found other adjustments were needed. He was totally compassionate and wanted to help me. Within an hour, David made my flute sing again. Many, many thanks from a very appreciative California flutist. You guys ROCK!!!"

— Genevieve P.

"Superb professional service and repair."

"We have gone to service the flute here and every time we are as happy as when the flute was new. Superb professional service and repair and excellent customer service at a low price, this is the place we have gone back for the last 10 years."

— Henriette H. R.

"It plays like a dream and feels and looks like new."

"I recently had my flute (purchased in 1986) overhauled at Flute Center of New York. It plays like a dream and feels and looks like new. I would recommend them to anyone who needs to have their flute serviced."

— Elynn C.

"Highly recommend for any flutist!"

"The only place I go to get my flute repaired. I came to them with an emergency repair and because I'd paid for the Concierge Service the last time I had a COA, they were able to see me right away and the rush fee was covered. Highly recommend for any flutist!"

— Lara T.