As temperatures start to rise in Des Moines, West Des Moines, and surrounding areas, now is the perfect time to prepare your HVAC system for the warm months ahead. A properly maintained air conditioning system will keep your home comfortable while helping you avoid costly repairs and reduce energy bills.
At Lenz Heating & Cooling, we provide reliable heating and cooling services in the Des Moines Metro, ensuring homeowners have efficient and dependable cooling systems all summer long. Follow this spring HVAC maintenance checklist to get your system in top shape– and if you need professional HVAC service, we are here to help.
Why Spring HVAC Maintenance is Important
Homeowners in Des Moines and surrounding areas experience fluctuating temperatures, from cold winters to hot, humid summers. Scheduling HVAC maintenance in the spring helps ensure your air conditioner is ready before peak summer heat.
Benefits of regular maintenance:
- Improves energy efficiency– Lower cooling costs during the hottest months
- Extends system lifespan– Prevents unnecessary wear and tear
- Reduces risk of breakdowns– Avoid emergency AC repairs in the middle of summer
- Improves indoor air quality– Reduces dust, allergens, and humidity issues
Get ahead of the summer heat– schedule your HVAC tune-up with Lenz Heating & Cooling today.
Spring DIY HVAC Maintenance Checklist
Use this step-by-step guide to ensure your HVAC system is running efficiently before the temperatures rise.
1. Check and Replace Your Air Filter
Dust and allergens accumulate quickly in Iowa homes, making clean air filters essential for good airflow and efficiency. A dirty air filter forces your system to work harder, increasing energy costs and reducing indoor air quality.
- Replace air filters every 1-3 months for best performance.
- Homes with pets, allergies, or heavy AC use may need more frequent filter change
Need help finding the right filter? Our technicians can assist with selection and installation.
2. Clean and Inspect Air Vents
Blocked or dirty vents can reduce airflow and make it harder for your system to cool your home efficiently.
- Vacuum vents and registers to remove dust and debris.
- Check that vents are not blocked by furniture or curtains.
3. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor AC unit needs proper ventilation to operate efficiently. During the fall and winter, leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate around the system, blocking airflow.
- Remove leaves, grass clippings, and twigs from around the unit.
- Ensure at least two feet of clearance around the unit for proper airflow.
- Gently rinse the unit with a garden hose to remove dirt and dust buildup.
If your outdoor unit looks dirty or clogged, professional cleaning can improve efficiency and cooling performance.
4. Check the Thermostat for Accuracy
A properly functioning thermostat ensures your system cools your home efficiently. If your thermostat is outdated or malfunctioning, your system may run longer than necessary, wasting energy and increasing utility costs.
- Set the thermostat to cooling mode and adjust the temperature.
- Ensure the system responds properly and maintains the desired temperature.
- Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and efficiency.
Lenz Heating & Cooling installs programmable and smart thermostats to help homeowners in Des Moines and surrounding areas save on energy costs.
5. Inspect Your Ductwork for Leaks
Leaky ducts can cause uneven cooling, higher energy bills, and poor air circulation.
- Check for visible gaps, holes, or disconnected duct sections.
- Look for weak airflow in certain rooms, which may indicate leaks.
- Seal minor leaks with HVAC-approved tape or schedule a professional duct inspection.
If your home has uneven cooling or high energy bills, our team can diagnose and seal duct leaks for better efficiency.
6. Listen for Unusual Noises
Unusual sounds from your HVAC system can indicate mechanical problems that need attention before they worsen.
- Rattling or banging– Could mean loose or broken parts.
- Hissing– May indicate a refrigerant leak.
- Grinding– Could be a blower motor or compressor issue.
If your system is making strange noises, schedule a professional AC inspection before small issues become costly repairs.
Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up
Even if everything seems to be working fine, a professional spring HVAC tune-up can identify hidden issues, improve efficiency, and extend the life of your system.
During a tune-up, our expert technicians will:
- Inspect and clean coils, fans, and other essential components
- Check refrigerant levels and ensure proper cooling performance
- Test electrical connections for safety and reliability
- Ensure the system is operating efficiently before peak summer heat arrives
Why Homeowners in the Des Moines and Surrounding Areas Trust Lenz Heating & Cooling
When it comes to keeping homes comfortable year-round, Lenz Heating & Cooling is the trusted choice for homeowners in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Waukee, Urbandale, and surrounding areas.
- Locally-owned and operated– Proud to serve the Des Moines Metro
- Veteran-owned, female-owned, and family-owned– Committed to honest, reliable service
- No trip fees, diagnostic fees, or overtime charges– Transparent pricing, no surprises
- Skilled HVAC technicians with years of experience
- Full-service solutions– From maintenance and repairs to new system installations
- Flexible financing for heating repairs and maintenance– We offer HVAC financing options so you can get the services you need without financial stress.
Schedule Your Spring HVAC Tune-Up Today
Don’t wait until the first heatwave to realize your AC isn’t working properly. Stay ahead of the summer heat with a professional spring HVAC tune-up from Lenz Heating & Cooling.
P.S. Looking for even more savings? Ask about our seasonal service agreement plans to keep your system running efficiently all year long.
