Living in Minnesota means your HVAC system works overtime. From the bitter cold of winter to the hot, sticky days of summer, it’s one of the hardest-working systems in your home. Without regular upkeep, it can lose efficiency, cost more to run, and break down when you need it most. And trust us—nothing’s worse than having it quit on you when you need it the most.
The good news is that a little preventive care goes a long way. In this guide, we’ll walk through practical tips for fall and winter prep, warm-weather readiness, and year-round habits that help your system last longer. We’ll also share when it’s smart to handle things yourself and when it’s worth calling in the experts—like our team here at Connors Plumbing, Heating & Air.
Fall and Winter HVAC Preparation
When September rolls around and the mornings start feeling crisp, it’s a sign that cold weather isn’t far away. This is the time to give your furnace some attention before it has to work full-time.
Start by replacing or cleaning the air filter—think of it as letting your furnace breathe easier. A clean filter improves airflow, which means the system doesn’t have to work as hard to heat your home.
Next, test your furnace by switching your thermostat to heat mode. If the furnace takes a while to start, makes strange noises, or gives off unusual smells, it’s worth having it checked to identify any issues before they become more serious. While you’re at it, clear away any boxes, tools, or storage near your furnace to keep air moving freely and safely.
A quick look at your vents can also save headaches later. Leaves, nests, or debris can block ventilation, which can reduce efficiency and even create safety concerns. And speaking of safety—check your carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re working and have fresh batteries.
Finally, schedule a professional furnace tune-up. Our heating maintenance services make sure your system is ready for the long haul, from cleaning key components to spotting small problems before they become big ones. We’ve seen too many homeowners caught off guard by a sudden cold snap—getting ahead now means you won’t be one of them.
Spring and Summer HVAC Preparation
When the snow melts and the days get longer, your HVAC focus shifts to cooling. Before you fire up the AC for the first time, take a look around your outdoor unit. Leaves, grass clippings, and other debris can block airflow and force your system to work harder. Clearing the area now helps your AC run more efficiently all season.
Just like in winter, clean filters make a big difference. Swap or wash your air filter before the cooling season kicks in. Then, set your thermostat to cooling mode and make sure the system starts up without delay. If you notice warm air coming from the vents or weaker airflow than usual, that’s your cue to have it checked before the summer heat shows up.
If you can safely access your ductwork in the attic or basement, look for visible gaps or disconnected sections. Leaky ducts let cool air escape and waste energy.
Inside the house, move any furniture, rugs, or curtains that may be blocking vents. Even a partially blocked vent can cause uneven cooling and strain your system.
A preseason tune-up is the best way to make sure your AC is ready for the heat. Our AC maintenance service includes cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting all the electrical components—things most homeowners don’t have the tools or training to safely or easily do on their own.
Year-Round HVAC Care
No matter the season, a few habits will keep your system in better shape year-round. Always keep vents open to maintain balanced airflow. Closing them might seem like a way to save energy, but it can actually increase pressure in the system and cause problems.
Plan to change your filters every one to three months, depending on how much you run your system and whether you have pets or allergies. Pay attention to how your system sounds and feels—new noises, changes in temperature, or sudden jumps in your energy bill are all signs that something may need attention.
And here’s one of the biggest things you can do: schedule a tune-up twice a year—once in the spring for cooling and once in the fall for heating. Our technicians handle the deep cleaning, safety checks, and fine-tuning that keep your system efficient and extend its lifespan.
Why Routine Maintenance Matters
Regular HVAC maintenance is an investment that pays you back. Studies show that it can cut your risk of breakdowns by up to 95%, and according to the U.S. Department of Energy, it can reduce your energy bills by 5–20%. A well-maintained system can even run up to 30% more efficiently, which means more comfort for less money.
Beyond the savings, maintenance helps your system last longer. Replacing a furnace or AC is a big expense, so taking care of what you have just makes sense. And here in Minnesota, avoiding an emergency breakdown in the middle of January or during a July heatwave isn’t just convenient—it’s essential.
DIY vs. Professional Maintenance
There’s plenty you can do yourself, like changing filters, clearing debris around the outdoor unit, and making sure your thermostat is set properly. But for the more technical work—like cleaning coils, checking and refilling refrigerant, or inspecting electrical connections—it’s best to call in a pro.
Our team at Connors offers heating and cooling services that cover the maintenance tasks most homeowners can’t safely tackle. We’ve got the tools, training, and experience to make sure your system is running its best.
Local Experience You Can Rely On
Since 1949, Connors Plumbing, Heating & Air has been keeping homes in Waseca, Mankato, Owatonna, and the surrounding towns comfortable through every season. We’re not just here to fix problems—we’re here to help you prevent them. Our certified technicians provide honest advice, upfront pricing, and quality workmanship backed by decades of local experience.
From indoor air quality solutions to seasonal tune-ups, we’re ready to make sure your home is comfortable and efficient year-round.
The Bottom Line on HVAC Care
Your HVAC system works hard for you every day. A little seasonal care—done on your own and with the help of professionals—goes a long way toward keeping your system efficient, reliable, and ready for whatever Minnesota weather throws at it.
Start with the easy tasks, then let Connors handle the rest. Call us today or schedule your seasonal tune-up online and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is ready for the next season.