Every year, the same thing happens.
We roll out for our first round of spring AC tune-ups across the Twin Cities. We knock on doors, step into basements, head out to backyards, and take a good look at what winter left behind. And every year, we find a handful of issues that homeowners had no idea were waiting for them—issues that, left unchecked, would’ve turned into breakdowns, higher energy bills, or surprise repair calls right when they needed cool air the most.
That’s why this blog isn’t just a checklist. It’s a heads-up.
Here’s what our technicians are seeing right now, in real homes, in neighborhoods just like yours—and what it could mean for your system if you don’t catch it early.
Snow, ice, and wind didn’t go easy this year. We’ve already seen bent fins, cracked panels, and debris buildup in and around condenser units. In some cases, the unit is so packed with leaves, sticks, and yard waste that airflow is severely restricted—and that means the AC has to work twice as hard just to do its job.
The problem is, most homeowners never look at their outdoor unit. It’s out of sight, out of mind—until the day it can’t keep up with the heat. A quick cleanup during a spring tune-up can make a big difference in performance, longevity, and energy use.
Dirty condenser coils are one of the most common things we find in May. It makes sense—after sitting all winter and collecting whatever the wind and snow delivered, coils can become coated in grime and debris. When that happens, your system can’t release heat properly. That’s a direct hit to efficiency, and it makes your AC run longer, burn more energy, and wear out faster.
Cleaning coils is a core part of every tune-up we do at Bob Boldt HVAC. If you’ve never had it done, it’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to give your system a real boost before the summer heat arrives.
Winter moisture plus aging components is a recipe for trouble. Already this season, we’ve come across corroded contactors, weak capacitors, and loose connections—all small issues that can knock your system out if left unchecked. In many cases, the homeowner had no idea anything was wrong.
These parts don’t usually fail during the quiet months. They wait until your system is running full speed, mid-summer, on the hottest day of the year. A simple tune-up gives us the chance to catch them now—before they become an expensive emergency later.
You’d be amazed how many cooling problems actually come down to a thermostat that’s just not communicating properly. We’re already seeing early signs: systems short-cycling, running too long, or failing to match set temperatures. Sometimes it’s just a matter of recalibration. Other times, it’s a sign that the thermostat needs replacing.
The good news?
Our techs check every thermostat as part of your $89 tune-up, and we’ll get you back in control of your comfort without guesswork or confusion.
After months of freezing temps, cracked condensate drain lines and clogs are already showing up in a handful of homes. It’s a hidden issue that can cause water damage if ignored. Spring is the time to clear it, test it, and make sure everything drains the way it should—especially before your system kicks into daily use.
If your AC hasn’t been checked yet this year, these are the types of things that could be quietly brewing in your own system. Most of them aren’t emergencies—yet. But by the time they are, it’s too late to prevent the damage.
The good news is, every one of these issues is preventable. And right now, you can catch them for just $89.
Get ahead of the season, save money, and avoid sweating it out when the heat arrives. Our schedule is filling fast, but we’ve still got appointments open. Call Bob Boldt HVAC or book online today—and let’s make sure your system is ready for anything summer throws at it.
Stay ready. Stay comfortable. Stay cool.
Your Neighbor & Cooling Expert
Bob Boldt
(651) 273-2414