Living in Iowa means your HVAC system works hard. With summer highs pushing into the 90s and winter lows dropping well below zero, regular maintenance isn't optional—it's essential for comfort, safety, and your wallet.
The Short Answer: Twice a Year
Iowa homeowners should have their HVAC systems serviced twice annually:
- Spring (March-April): AC tune-up before cooling season
- Fall (September-October): Furnace tune-up before heating season
This schedule ensures both systems are inspected, cleaned, and optimized before they're needed most, reducing the risk of mid-season breakdowns.
Why Iowa's Climate Demands Regular Maintenance
Iowa isn't like California or Florida, where HVAC systems have relatively mild workloads. Our extreme temperature swings—sometimes 100+ degrees between summer highs and winter lows—put enormous stress on heating and cooling equipment.
Consider what your system endures in a typical year:
- Furnace running nearly constantly during cold snaps below zero
- AC battling humidity and 90°+ heat for weeks in summer
- Rapid temperature changes in spring and fall
- Dust, pollen, and agricultural particles in rural areas
- Ice and snow accumulation around outdoor units
What's Included in Professional HVAC Maintenance?
Spring (March-April)
Air Conditioning Tune-Up
- Check and clean condenser coils
- Inspect refrigerant levels
- Test thermostat calibration
- Clean or replace air filter
- Check electrical connections
- Lubricate moving parts
- Clear debris from outdoor unit
Fall (September-October)
Heating/Furnace Tune-Up
- Inspect heat exchanger for cracks
- Clean and adjust burners
- Test ignition and safety controls
- Check gas connections
- Clean or replace filter
- Test carbon monoxide levels
- Inspect flue and ventilation
The Real Cost of Skipping Maintenance
Some homeowners skip maintenance to save money, but this usually costs more in the long run:
What Happens Without Maintenance:
- • Higher energy bills: Dirty systems work harder, using 15-25% more energy
- • More breakdowns: 95% of HVAC failures are preventable with maintenance
- • Shorter lifespan: Neglected systems last 10-12 years vs. 15-20 with care
- • Voided warranties: Many manufacturers require annual maintenance
- • Safety risks: Cracked heat exchangers can leak carbon monoxide
The Maintenance Advantage:
- • Lower bills: Clean, tuned systems run at peak efficiency
- • Fewer repairs: Catch small issues before they become big problems
- • Longer lifespan: Regular maintenance adds years to your equipment
- • Better comfort: Systems maintain more consistent temperatures
- • Peace of mind: Know your system is safe and ready
DIY Maintenance You Should Do Monthly
Between professional tune-ups, there are simple tasks you can do to keep your system running smoothly:
- Replace or clean air filters every 1-3 months
- Keep outdoor unit clear of debris, leaves, and snow
- Check that all vents are open and unobstructed
- Listen for unusual noises when system runs
- Monitor energy bills for unexpected increases
- Replace thermostat batteries annually
Maintenance Plans: The Smart Choice
Our maintenance plans make it easy to stay on schedule with automatic reminders, priority scheduling, and exclusive discounts. Plans include:
- Two annual tune-ups (heating and cooling)
- Priority scheduling—no waiting during busy seasons
- 15% discount on repairs
- No overtime charges for emergency calls
- Filter reminders and discounts
- Extended equipment life guarantee
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I service my HVAC in Iowa?
In Iowa, you should service your HVAC system twice a year: once in spring for your AC before cooling season, and once in fall for your furnace before heating season. This schedule accounts for Iowa's extreme temperature swings and heavy system usage in both seasons.
What happens if I skip HVAC maintenance?
Skipping maintenance leads to reduced efficiency (higher energy bills), more frequent breakdowns, shorter equipment lifespan, and potential safety hazards. Studies show regular maintenance can prevent up to 95% of HVAC repairs and extend equipment life by 5-10 years.
How much does HVAC maintenance cost in Iowa?
A single HVAC tune-up in Iowa typically costs $89-$150. Annual maintenance plans, which include two tune-ups plus discounts and priority service, usually cost $150-$250 per year. The investment typically pays for itself through energy savings and prevented repairs.
Can I do HVAC maintenance myself?
You can and should do basic maintenance like changing filters monthly, keeping outdoor units clear, and checking thermostat batteries. However, professional maintenance includes tasks requiring specialized tools and training: checking refrigerant levels, inspecting heat exchangers, testing electrical components, and cleaning internal parts.
When is the best time to schedule HVAC maintenance in Iowa?
Schedule AC maintenance in March-April and furnace maintenance in September-October. Booking during these shoulder seasons ensures your system is ready before peak usage and helps you avoid the rush when HVAC companies are busiest.