What’s Included in AC Maintenance?

During the summer months in Ellsworth, Osceola, Hudson, and Hastings, your AC system works harder than nearly anything else in your home. That’s why annual AC maintenance is key to keeping things productive and avoiding mid-season breakdowns.

As part of your regular air conditioning routine maintenance, a professional tune-up includes inspection, cleaning, and performance checks to help your unit last longer, run better, and use less energy.

How Often Should Your HVAC Be Serviced?

In Western Wisconsin and Eastern Minnesota, extreme weather makes HVAC systems work harder year-round. Experts recommend servicing your setup twice a year — once in spring for cooling and again in fall for heating. Skipping maintenance can reduce efficiency by up to 30% and drive up energy costs.

Why Annual AC Maintenance Is Essential

A spring tune-up helps your AC stay reliable before the hottest weeks of the year hit.

With consistent care, you can expect:

• Energy Savings: A clean, well-tuned system uses less energy, lowering monthly utility bills.
• Improved Comfort: Even airflow, accurate thermostat readings, and consistent cooling throughout every room.
• Extended HVAC Lifespan: Early detection of wear and tear helps prevent major issues, allowing your unit to run longer.

Factors Influencing Additional Maintenance

Annual maintenance covers most systems, but some require extra attention depending on:

• Unit Age: In Ellsworth, where many homes are older, AC units often need more attention. If yours is over 10 years old, it may be time for a personalized maintenance plan or an upgrade.
• Geographic Location: In Hudson and Hastings, humid summers, farmland, and pollen can clog filters faster. Seasonal debris and dust may require maintenance to protect airflow and air quality.
• Usage: Homes in Osceola, where winters are especially harsh, often run their systems nearly year-round. Heavier usage means more wear and need for routine checkups.
• Manufacturer Guidelines: Every system has recommended maintenance intervals. Following them helps protect your warranty and ensures proper performance.

If your unit’s pushing a decade or working overtime to cool your home, schedule a personalized plan before small issues become big problems. Financing is available for qualifying homeowners to help cover major repairs or upgrades.

Key Component of Professional AC Maintenance

A proper AC tune-up sets your system up for reliable summer comfort, helping to avoid issues before they start.

A typical visit includes:

• Inspections & Cleaning: Key components, such as coils and blower parts, are thoroughly cleaned of dust and buildup to prevent strain and maintain strong airflow.
• System Checks: Refrigerant levels, safety controls, and electrical connections are checked for proper function.
• Lubrication & Adjustments: Moving parts are fine-tuned and lubricated to reduce wear and help the unit run quietly.
• Airflow & Ductwork: Filters, vents, and ducts are inspected to ensure air flows evenly and cleanly throughout the home.

Additional HVAC Maintenance for Optimal Performance

For even better performance, a few extra maintenance steps go a long way:

• Outdoor Unit Maintenance: Clearing debris and cleaning coils enhances airflow, allowing the AC to cool better.
• System Diagnostics: Real-time readings like airflow and temperature help uncover hidden issues and fine-tune performance.
• Safety Checks: Inspections for electrical hazards, gas leaks, and carbon monoxide protect both the system and the home.

Comfort By Design’s 12-Point HVAC Tune-Up Checklist

Comfort By Design’s 12-point tune-up goes beyond the basics to deliver detailed care. This comprehensive air conditioner maintenance checklist is designed to catch minor issues early, boost performance, and maintain year-round comfort.

Here’s what’s included:

1. Checking and replacing air filters as needed: Keeps airflow strong and indoor air clean.
2. Measuring amperage and voltage for proper blower motor operation: Ensures safe motor function.
3. Measuring and adjusting gas pressure for peak efficiency: Maintains performance and reduces safety risks.
4. Cleaning and inspecting the heat exchanger: Prevents carbon monoxide leaks and unnecessary energy loss.
5. Testing the air flow duct system for carbon monoxide: Protects indoor air quality and home safety.
6. Checking for natural gas leaks: Identifies hazards early to prevent danger.
7. Testing and calibrating the thermostat for proper operation: Keeps temperatures accurate and units responsive.
8. Testing the ignition system for safety and proper function: Ensures reliable, safe start-up.
9. Lubricating and cleaning the blower motor and wheel: Reduces wear and improves airflow.
10. Testing safety and control circuits for proper operation: Confirms system protections are working as designed.
11. Cleaning and inspecting furnace burners: Improves combustion and prevents soot buildup.
12. Cleaning the furnace exterior: Helps keep the system clean and easier to service.

With over 25 years of trusted local service, every item on this checklist is designed to keep your AC running strong every season. Schedule your HVAC tune-up today and be ready for whatever the year brings.

Why Choose Comfort By Design For AC Maintenance

For decades, Comfort By Design has delivered reliable, high-quality HVAC service to homeowners in Ellsworth, Osceola, Hudson, and Hastings. From seasonal tune-ups to 24/7 emergency repairs, our licensed technicians bring region-specific expertise to every visit.

We’re proud to serve our local communities with trusted, community-based care. We service all makes and models, offer financing for major repairs, and take the time to explain what your system needs and why.

Don’t wait for the first heatwave to hit. Schedule your AC maintenance today and enjoy trusted local care built on over 25 years of experience.

HVAC Maintenance FAQs

• What are some signs my AC may need maintenance?
  • Even if it’s running, watch for:
    • Uneven cooling or weak airflow
    • Strange noises or musty smells
    • Higher energy bills
    • Frequent cycling
    • Leaks or moisture around the unit
• Can I perform AC maintenance myself?
  • Yes — homeowners can replace filters and clear outdoor debris but leave refrigerant, electrical, and internal work to the pros.
• How long does a well-maintained AC last?
  • With regular care, most systems last 12–15 years and perform reliably longer.
• How often should my AC be serviced?
  • Experts recommend air conditioning routine maintenance at least twice a year in regions like Western Wisconsin and Eastern Minnesota.