When your furnace quits on the coldest night of the year—or your air conditioner breaks during a July heatwave—it’s more than an inconvenience. It’s a crisis. For Central Iowa homeowners, those emergencies can mean high repair costs, long wait times, and a home that’s anything but comfortable.
That’s where preventative maintenance comes in.
Regular HVAC maintenance is the easiest, most cost-effective way to keep your heating and cooling system running smoothly year-round. In this post, we’ll explain how preventative maintenance helps you save money, what Anthem’s Comfort-Shield Membership includes, and why this simple plan can prevent surprise breakdowns before they ever start.
Why Preventative Maintenance Matters (and Pays for Itself)
Think of your HVAC system like your car. You wouldn’t drive 50,000 miles without an oil change and expect it to run perfectly, right? The same logic applies to your heating and cooling system.
Over time, dust, dirt, and everyday wear take a toll. A small problem—a weak capacitor or dirty burner—can quietly grow into a full system failure.
That’s where routine maintenance makes a huge difference.
The real benefits:
Efficiency: Clean systems don’t work as hard, saving you 5–15% on energy costs according to ENERGY STAR.
Longevity: A maintained HVAC system can last years longer than one that’s neglected.
Safety: Technicians check for gas leaks, carbon monoxide, and other hidden hazards.
Peace of mind: No late-night calls or costly emergencies—just reliable comfort.
As Energy.gov notes, poor airflow or blocked filters can increase energy consumption by 15% or more. In Central Iowa, where summers are humid and winters can be brutal, that’s money literally going out the window.
What’s Included in an Anthem Pro Tune-Up
When you schedule a preventative tune-up with Anthem Heating & Cooling, it’s more than just a quick look. Every visit is detailed, documented, and performed by a certified technician trained to catch problems early.
Your furnace tune-up includes:
Filter replacement or cleaning
Inspection of blower, belt, and motor bearings
Burner assembly cleaning and flame sensor testing
Heat exchanger and flue inspection for cracks or leaks
Gas pressure and combustion analysis
Electrical connection tightening and safety control testing
Thermostat calibration and operation verification
Your AC tune-up includes:
Outdoor coil cleaning and indoor coil inspection
Refrigerant level and pressure check
Capacitor and contactor testing
Condensate drain inspection (to prevent leaks and mold)
Compressor, fan motor, and temperature split testing
Electrical connection tightening
Static pressure and airflow balance verification
Each of these steps helps your system run better and prevents the wear and tear that leads to unexpected repairs.
The Cost of Skipping Maintenance
Skipping maintenance might save money now—but it often costs more later.
Without routine service, you risk:
Higher energy bills – A clogged filter or dirty coil can raise your energy costs by 20%.
Frequent repairs – Minor issues compound into major ones.
Reduced comfort – Uneven temperatures and poor airflow.
Shortened equipment life – Furnaces and ACs without maintenance fail years sooner.
Warranty voids – Most manufacturers require proof of regular maintenance.
A simple $199 membership can easily prevent $1,000+ in emergency repairs and extend the lifespan of your system by several years.
Meet the Comfort-Shield Membership (Built for Iowa Homes)
Anthem’s Comfort-Shield Membership is designed to keep your HVAC system in peak condition—without surprises or hidden costs.
Here’s what you get for $199/year:
2 visits per year — one for heating, one for cooling
10% off service repairs (parts and labor)
Up to 5% off system replacement when it’s time for a new unit
Priority service during peak seasons
Exclusive promotions only for members
No overtime rates—ever
Two professional visits per year ensure your system is tuned before each extreme season. Whether it’s a January freeze or a July heatwave, you’ll have peace of mind knowing Anthem has your back.
“Preventative Maintenance is the best way to save on costly breakdowns and repairs. By enrolling in our plan, you can extend system life, save energy, and prevent costly emergencies.”
— Anthem Heating & Cooling, Comfort-Shield Membership Overview
Regular Maintenance vs. Comfort-Shield Membership
Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison showing what you get with the plan versus pay-as-you-go service:
How Comfort-Shield Pays for Itself
Let’s run a simple example:
If you call for one emergency repair each year, you’ll likely spend $300–$400 per visit, plus potential overtime rates.
With Comfort-Shield, you pay $199/year, avoid those costs, and keep your system in top shape. Add in:
10% off repairs
Energy savings
Priority scheduling
…and the membership practically pays for itself in less than a year.
Common Problems Prevented by Maintenance (and Their Usual Costs)
| Problem | Typical Cost Without Maintenance | Prevented by Comfort-Shield? |
|---|---|---|
| Dirty flame sensor | $150–$300 | ✅ Yes |
| Weak capacitor | $200–$400 | ✅ Yes |
| Clogged condensate drain | $150–$500 | ✅ Yes |
| Overheated blower motor | $500–$1,200 | ✅ Yes |
| Cracked heat exchanger | $2,000+ (full replacement) | ✅ Often detected early |
Routine visits allow Anthem techs to catch these before they escalate into emergencies.
Who Benefits Most from a Maintenance Plan?
If any of the following sound familiar, Comfort-Shield was made for you:
Your system is 5+ years old.
You have pets or live near farmland (more dust = more filter changes).
You’ve had a surprise breakdown before.
You like predictable bills and zero overtime charges.
You value having a trusted local team that knows your system’s history.
Even new systems benefit—regular maintenance helps keep warranties valid and ensures your investment lasts as long as possible.
How a Visit Works
Arrival & Safety Check
Our technician starts with electrical and gas safety checks.Deep Cleaning
They clean burners, coils, flame sensors, and fans—critical for efficiency.Performance Test
Static pressure, temperature rise, refrigerant pressures, and electrical readings are recorded.Preventive Repairs
We’ll fix small issues before they cause big ones.Report & Recommendations
You’ll get a written summary of what we did, what we found, and what can wait.
Bonus: Improve Indoor Air Quality While You’re At It
Preventative maintenance doesn’t just protect your furnace—it improves your indoor environment.
During service, Anthem techs can recommend add-ons like:
Whole-home humidifiers for winter comfort
High-efficiency filters for cleaner air
UV or HEPA purifiers for allergy relief
Smart thermostats for better control
Explore Anthem’s indoor air quality solutions to make your home even healthier.
How to Enroll in Comfort-Shield
Getting started is easy.
Call or fill out the contact form on the Anthem Heating & Cooling website.
Ask about the Comfort-Shield Membership.
We’ll schedule your first visit and lock in your annual plan.
Each visit is documented, ensuring compliance with warranty requirements and keeping you fully covered.
Prventative Maintenance FAQ
How long does a furnace last with proper maintenance?
Most last 15–20 years or longer when serviced regularly.
Is Comfort-Shield available for both heating and cooling?
Yes, it covers two visits per year—one for your furnace and one for your AC.
Can maintenance really prevent breakdowns?
Yes. According to ACCA, over 80% of HVAC failures stem from preventable causes like dirt, dust, or neglect.
What if Anthem finds something during my tune-up?
We’ll explain the issue, provide transparent pricing, and let you decide. No pressure.
The Bottom Line
Your HVAC system shouldn’t surprise you. Preventative maintenance isn’t a luxury—it’s insurance for your comfort and your wallet.
With Anthem’s Comfort-Shield Membership, you’ll save money, extend your system’s life, and eliminate the stress of unexpected repairs.
Ready for fewer surprises and more comfort?
Contact Anthem Heating & Cooling today and ask about the Comfort-Shield Membership.
References
Heating is your home’s biggest energy use — Energy.gov: Heating & Cooling Basics
Thermostat settings and setbacks — Energy.gov: Thermostats
Smart thermostat benefits — ENERGY STAR: Smart Thermostats
Change furnace filters regularly — ENERGY STAR: Maintain Your Equipment
Air sealing + insulation save energy — ENERGY STAR: Seal & Insulate
Duct leaks can waste 20–30% of air — Energy.gov: Duct Sealing
Mini-split (ductless) efficiency — Energy.gov: Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps
Ceiling fan winter direction (clockwise) — Energy.gov: Ceiling Fans
HVAC maintenance improves efficiency — Energy.gov: Maintain Your Heating System
Window coverings: use sun by day, insulate at night — Energy.gov: Window Attachments