Whether it happens on the first hot day of the summer, the first cold night of the winter or any time in between, it can be a big surprise when your HVAC system needs to be serviced, repaired, or even replaced. If this happens to you this year there may be another surprise in store: the higher cost.

It’s normal for HVAC manufacturers to raise their prices each year, but this year the prices have gone up at a faster rate than usual. Unfortunately, this means that HVAC service providers have finally had to pass the costs along to their customers.

Let’s explore the reasons for the price increases and what you can do to avoid costly repairs to your home HVAC system.

HVAC Materials and Labor On The Rise

The main reason for the price increases is that the costs of HVAC materials have risen. This includes parts we use to repair your systems and the parts used to build new systems, making repairs and replacements more expensive.

The affected raw materials include:

• Sheet metal used to build the systems
• Lumber used for shipping
• Copper used for housing refrigerant
• Aluminum that make the evaporator coils and fan blades

In addition to the rising costs of raw materials for HVAC equipment, a truck driver shortage is also contributing to the price increases. Equipment and materials are sitting on docks undelivered because there aren’t enough workers to transport them, leading to higher demand and higher prices.

Another factor at play is the national labor shortage at HVAC manufacturer facilities. This has led to a shortage of the parts they produce, resulting in higher demand and an overall increase in price.

The semiconductor chip shortage that has affected thousands of electronics from cars to smartphones has also played a role in impacting HVAC prices. These chips are used in high efficiency units.

Perform Routine Maintenance Regularly

With HVAC costs on the rise, it’s important to have routine maintenance performed on a regular basis. Just like with your vehicle, having things checked out periodically can extend the lifespan of your system, keep things running smoothly and help you avoid the more costly repairs that could pop up from time to time.

When you join the Bell Brothers Comfort Club, a service technician will visit your home twice per year to perform routine maintenance, change your filter, complete a 21-point inspection and much more to make sure everything is running smoothly.

When the time finally comes to replace your HVAC system, we can help you manage the cost with flexible financing options. Special interest rates are available for periods of 12 months to five years. Some of our options include no payments and no interest for 12 months on some purchases.

Traditionally our strategy has been to purchase larger quantities of parts and equipment in the spring and fall to be prepared for the busy season. Due to the equipment shortage, this past year we’ve had to adopt a purchasing strategy that goes above and beyond in order to ensure we have equipment. And unfortunately, we have had to raise our prices this year due to the multiple increases from the manufacturers.

At the end of the day, we don’t want there to be any surprises when it comes to the final costs or your repairs or new HVAC system. We want to be transparent because we take service personally and we value your trust above all else.

During Iowa summers, it’s not uncommon for temperatures to break into the 90s with heat index levels occasionally breaking 100. To keep your home at a comfortable temperature, your air conditioner could be working overtime.

During these times, you may notice your HVAC unit leaking water and ask yourself “is that normal?”

It is normal for your HVAC system to form water, but only to a certain extent. If your air conditioner has been leaking all day or you notice a puddle beneath your system that’s getting bigger and bigger, it could be a sign of a problem.

Let’s explore why your HVAC system produces water and the potential causes for an unwanted leak.

Why Air Conditioners Produce Water

Your HVAC system has an evaporator coil that cools the warm air being blown over it and into your home. This causes condensation to form on the coil, very similarly to the way it forms on a cold glass of water on a hot day.

This water drips onto a pan and drains into a condensate drain line, which leads outside. So water shouldn’t pool beneath your unit unless there’s a problem with your system.

Here are some of the reasons your air conditioner could be leaking water.

5 Reasons Your HVAC System Is Leaking Water

1. Your air filter is dirty.

This is an easy one for you to check and fix yourself. If your air filter is dirty, it will partially or completely block the flow of warm air. This causes the evaporator coil to freeze up, and when the system stops running, water will melt, drip down and pool under the system.

2. Refrigerant levels are low.

If your AC refrigerant level is low, your system’s air pressure will drop. Much like when your air filter is dirty, this will cause the evaporator coil to freeze over and leak water.

3. The condensate pan is damaged.

This is particularly prevalent in units that are more than 10 years old. The condensate pan catches the water dripping off the evaporator coil, but if the pan is corroded or rusted, the water may leak through the holes and onto the floor beneath the unit.

4. Your condensate drain line is clogged or your condensate pump is broken.

Normally after the water drips into the condensate pan, it funnels through the drain line and outside. If this line is clogged, the water will have nowhere to go but the floor. If your unit is in the basement of your home, a condensate pump will normally take the water upstairs and outside. If the pump is damaged, the water will leak beneath the unit.

5. Temperatures outdoors are cool.

If you’re trying to cool your home when it's not hot outside (60 °F or lower), this could also cause the evaporator coils to freeze up and leak water onto the floor.

As our culture continues to shift toward a mindset of “instant gratification,” our ideas about long-term planning and major purchases have changed. Many are content to let things run through their lifespan and replace them when the time comes. But that’s not the right approach with your HVAC system.

The average cost of a new HVAC system is roughly the same as a used car, so why not give them the same treatment? Performing routine maintenance on your vehicle extends its lifespan and it will do the same for your air conditioning unit and your furnace. On top of that, it can also lower your monthly energy bill.

In this guide, I will show you the benefits of preventative maintenance, what is included, some basic do-it-yourself tips and why an HVAC maintenance program is worth the investment.

Benefits of HVAC Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is critical to improving the lifespan of your heating and cooling system, so why would you ignore it? It’s as simple as regularly changing your air filter and having annual HVAC tuneups done.

Here are the five main benefits to having HVAC preventative maintenance performed on an annual basis:

1. Longer lifespan
2. Improved home safety and comfort
3. Better air quality
4. Lower energy costs
5. Reliable operation

What’s Included in Furnace Preventative Maintenance

Homeowners in Iowa typically use their furnace six months of the year. For the other six months, it sits idle. The dust and dirt accumulated during this time may prevent it from working at peak performance when it’s time to turn it back on.

Annual maintenance should be performed to extend the life of your furnace and ensure it is running safely. Maintenance performed by a trained professional should include:

• Full cleaning of the furnace
• Inspection of safety switches and devices
• Check of heat exchanger for cracks or damage
• Filter replacement
• Calibration of temperature controls and economizer controls
• Adjustment of fans and belts
• Inspections of all electrical components

Do-It-Yourself HVAC Maintenance Tips

If your system has stopped working, don’t panic. We know it's uncomfortable when the heat stops working in winter, or when your air stops working in summer. Your instinct may be to call a professional, but there are a few troubleshooting steps you should take on your own first. These could end up being a quick solution and can save you money.

DIY Troubleshooting Tips

• Replace your thermostat batteries
• Review the settings on your thermostat
• Check the circuit breaker for the HVAC unit
• Change the filter

Additionally, you can check out our guide to troubleshooting common air conditioner problems for tips on deciding when you can make an easy fix, or when it’s time to call a technician.

HVAC Maintenance Programs

The easiest way to keep your furnace and AC in prime condition is to sign up for an HVAC maintenance program. The money you save by extending your system’s life span and lowering the cost of your energy bills usually outweigh the investment. Plus, getting regular tuneups can reduce future HVAC maintenance costs by avoiding the need for major repairs.

But not every maintenance program is the same and you’ll want to do your research. Here are four questions you should ask as you’re weighing your options:

1. Does this HVAC maintenance program include cleaning?
2. What additional benefits will I receive?
3. Does the company provide advice and recommendations?
4. How do I know which membership level is right for me?

Join the Comfort Club Today

At Bell Brothers, we want to provide you with the peace of mind that your HVAC system is running at optimal safety and efficiency. Not only that, we will make sure you understand your needs and help you choose an annual HVAC maintenance program that works best for you.

Bell Brothers Comfort Club offers three levels of annual maintenance service to fit your needs and budget. Each level includes:

• Two visits per year
• Enrollment in our loyalty program
• A 21-point inspection
• Thermostat battery replacement

Updated: November 2025

Choosing the right HVAC system in Des Moines, Iowa starts with understanding what your home truly needs. The decision to replace your HVAC system is a big one, and the process, comparing options, getting estimates, and scheduling installation, can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. Bell Brothers is here to make it easier by giving you the information you need from start to finish, from recognizing when it’s time to replace your system to knowing what to expect during installation.

Let’s get started!

Signs Your HVAC System May Need Replacement

The first step is to determine whether or not it’s time to replace your HVAC system in Des Moines. Nobody wants to find out on the hottest day of the summer that they need to replace their air conditioning unit. The same is true when facing a cold winter night with a furnace that needs to be replaced.

Most of the time, your HVAC unit won’t stop working unexpectedly. Instead, it’s usually a gradual process as the end of your system’s lifespan draws near. If you know what signs to look for, you can be prepared to replace your HVAC system before it gives out.

Research Your Options Before Choosing a System

If you need to replace your HVAC system, it’s time to do your research so you can choose the right type of system for your home. There’s more to choosing an HVAC system than finding out which brand is the best. It’s also important to research and compare the different benefits and features that come with each type of HVAC system you’re considering.

Additional questions to ask yourself include:

• What type of air handler or furnace do I need?
• Do I want a system equipped for zoning?
• What are my comfort needs?
• Do I prefer a heat pump or gas furnace?
• Is a geothermal heating and cooling system right for me?

Right-Sizing Your HVAC System

When it comes to choosing an HVAC system for your home, bigger is not always better. A unit that is too small for your home will be working too hard to reach your desired temperature. If it’s too big, it will cycle between blasting air and shutting off completely. This is not an efficient way for an HVAC system to operate.

Additionally, an air conditioner dehumidifies your house. If your system is too big for your house, it won’t run efficiently, which means it isn’t dehumidifying. A humid house will feel much warmer than it is. A system that is the right size will run continuously, keeping the humidity at the appropriate level.

How To Avoid Sticker Shock

Before you start getting quotes from HVAC contractors in Des Moines, you will want to set some financial expectations. A new HVAC system is an investment in your family’s comfort, but the cost can be a shock for some.

With all of the options available, HVAC system shopping can be confusing and overwhelming. Here are a few important questions to ask HVAC contractors when you’re getting an estimate.

1. Do you use a standardized pricing system?
2. Do you have a warranty program?
3. Do you have an installation guarantee?
4. What sort of training do your installation and service technicians receive?

What to Know Before Getting an HVAC Quote

While it may be tempting to get an HVAC quote over the phone, an on-site HVAC inspection will provide a more accurate estimate. An on-site inspection allows an HVAC professional to determine what aspects of your home will affect the total installation prices. For example, if your ductwork will need to be updated or if an HVAC technician needs to access a small or tight space to install the new unit, the installation time will likely increase.

When you start reaching out to get estimates from HVAC contractors, you will want to make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. On paper, it may look like you're getting a better deal for less from one contractor when you're really just getting less. So, ask questions and make sure you're comparing bids that include the same type of unit.

Apples to Apples: Things To Know Before Comparing Contractor Quotes

Having the HVAC System Installed

You know what your home needs, you’ve got your quotes and you’ve chosen the contractor with the best price for what you’re getting. It’s time for installation!

Buying a new HVAC system is a big deal, and trusting the people coming into your home to install it is an even bigger deal. When you’re scheduling your installation, you will want to make sure that the company is bonded, insured and the technicians are licensed; and that they will be respectful of your home and family. If all of these boxes are not checked, you should not do business with that company.

Take the Next Step Toward Comfort in Your Des Moines Home

Replacing your HVAC system is a large investment for your home. The decision should not be made without doing your research, getting multiple estimates and working with a trustworthy HVAC contractor.

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Are smart thermostats worth it? As technology continues to move forward, our homes are getting smarter. This includes our thermostats. Wi-Fi-enabled smart home thermostats have become a popular choice for those who enjoy technology and have a busy lifestyle or simply want more control over their home’s temperature and energy costs.

Smart home thermostats let you remotely control your home’s temperature with your smartphone, tablet or computer and can learn your behavior to adjust the temperature based on your schedule. Some can even use your smartphone GPS to detect when you’re on your usual route home and set your home to your desired temperature so it’s ready when you arrive.

There are a few smart thermostats on the market that retail for about $100, but you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 on average when shopping at a big box store like Lowes or the Home Depot. Smart thermostats are not necessarily plug-and-play, so you will also want to take into consideration the cost of having it installed by an experienced HVAC contractor who can help you set it up and teach you how to use it. If you purchase a smart thermostat through an HVAC contractor, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1000 depending on the brand.

Even with the upfront costs of buying and installing a smart thermostat, there are many features that can help you save money in the future.

Cost-Saving Features of Smart Thermostats

Energy Cost Analysis

Are smart thermostats worth it? A smart thermostat can show you how much money you spend on heating and cooling in real time. You can use this insight to adjust your program settings to help reduce energy consumption.

Program the Temperature Remotely

Similar to a programmable thermostat, a Wi-Fi thermostat allows you to schedule different temperatures for specific times of the day or days of the week for multiple rooms from your mobile device. This can help you save on energy costs if you leave home and forget to adjust your temperature settings.

Maintenance Reminders

Communication is not a one-way street with many types of smart thermostats. Most have notifications that can remind you when to perform simple maintenance, like replacing a filter, or if there is an issue with the system. In fact, the Carrier® Infinity® Touch Control Thermostat will send an alert to Bell Brothers to let us know which part of your system needs attention. Staying on top of maintenance all year long can help you avoid costly repairs and may even help answer the question: are smart thermostats worth it?

Over time, these cost-saving measures can offset the upfront cost of a smart thermostat, but you will want to make sure you find one that meets your needs and fits your budget.

Find a Compatible Smart Thermostat

Many HVAC manufactures, including Carrier, sell smart thermostats, but other brands are available as well. When looking at brands like the Nest or Ecobee, you need to make sure they are compatible with your internet provider and your HVAC system.

Most homeowners have a conventional gas furnace and air conditioner system installed to heat and cool their home. But did you know that you can heat and cool your home using your yard? In this blog post, we will be sharing everything you need to know about geothermal heating and cooling systems — what geothermal is, how it works and what the benefits are.

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What is Geothermal Heating and Cooling?

A geothermal heat pump system uses free, renewable energy by moving the earth’s heat from underground pipes to a geothermal unit inside your home. The collected heat is distributed through the ductwork to heat your home and can be used to preheat the water going into your hot water heater. To cool your home, the process is reversed: The warm air in your home is collected and stored in the ground. This is an energy-efficient method because it’s easier to move heat than to create heat.

How Does Geothermal Work?

The earth maintains a constant, moderate temperature just below the surface year-round. A geothermal system uses plastic loops or pipes that are installed underground. These loops contain an environmentally safe fluid that helps move heat. Unlike furnaces and conventional heat pumps, a geothermal system is powered 100% by electricity.

In the winter, the fluid in the loops absorbs the heat from the ground. It is then circulated into an indoor heat pump, where the heat is concentrated and then distributed throughout your home via the existing ductwork.

During the summer, indoor heat and humidity are extracted via the ductwork. Then the heat is concentrated and directed to the water heater or circulated back into the ground via the loops. The heat in the loop is absorbed into the ground, and the cool, dehumidified air that remains is distributed throughout your home.

What Are The Benefits of a Geothermal Heating and Cooling System?

Geothermal systems have become a popular choice for new construction homes, but they are also a great option for existing homes. There are several benefits to installing a geothermal heat pump system in your home:

• Geothermal systems are five times more efficient than conventional systems. Homeowners can save up to 60% in monthly utility costs.

• They provide a constant, precise temperature and humidity control. Unlike a conventional furnace, a geothermal system does not kick on and off trying to maintain the desired temperature.

• They cool 20%–40% more efficiently than other cooling systems.

• They heat 50%–70% more efficiently than other heating systems.
• Geothermal systems often qualify for state and federal energy tax credits plus utility rebates. There is currently a 26% federal tax credit.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling Costs

Geothermal systems can be expensive to install, and the installation cost varies based on many factors (geography, ground composition, size of home, equipment chosen, etc.). However, the system will pay for itself in about five to seven years due to the monthly savings on utility costs.

Bell Brothers is recognized as one of the best in geothermal expertise, overall performance, and customer service in Central Iowa. We’re certified through the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association.

To learn more about geothermal heating and cooling systems, contact us online or give us a call at 515-337-2456. We’d love to help you determine whether a geothermal system is right for you.

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Dry air in the house is a common issue during Des Moines winters. Humidity is most often associated with those really hot summer days, the sticky, muggy kind that make you uncomfortable. That’s because there’s too much moisture in the air. But in the wintertime, too little is often the culprit for indoor discomfort. Let’s take a look at the symptoms of low humidity levels and what you can do about it.

Dry Air in Your Des Moines Home? Here’s What to Watch For!

Winter is here, and that means dry air. Although there are a number of ways to tell if your home’s humidity is too low, we’ve narrowed it down to the six telltale signs we encounter most often.

• Itchy, dry skin and/or eyes
• Scratchy throat
• Chapped lips
• Nose bleeds
• Static electricity or flyaway hair
• Splitting hardwood floors

If these sound familiar, dry air in your house could be the cause, or at least a contributor. So what now? You could check for and seal any air leaks or try DIY humidification, but the most effective way to manage humidity levels in your home is a centralized humidifier.

What Is a Central Humidifier?

Whole-house (central) humidifiers are connected to your home’s hot air ducts and cold air return and disperse moisture into the air. They can work with your HVAC system or independently and offer a number of benefits:

• Energy and money savings
• Decreased chance of colds, flu, and respiratory illness
• Support for people with allergies or asthma

Types of Central Humidifiers

There are three types of whole-house (central) humidifiers — bypass, fan-powered and steam.

• Bypass humidifiers are installed directly on your central heating and cooling system. They take dry, hot air from the HVAC system andpass it through a water tray, where the water evaporates, turns to vapor and is circulated throughout your home. Because bypass humidifiers use the blower motor of the furnace, your furnace must be running in order for the unit to work.
• Fan-powered humidifiers also take hot air, pass it through a water tray and turn it to vapor. The biggest difference is that while a bypass humidifier relies on the furnace's blower-motor, fan powered units can operate on their own and, as a result, humidify your house faster.
• Steam humidifiers, as the name suggests, work by electrically boiling water to create steam, which is pushed throughout the ventilation system.

Depending on which humidifier you choose, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500-$1,200, plus the cost of installation.

Managing humidity levels in your home during all seasons is important for comfort, health, and keeping the atmosphere balanced. Want to learn more about humidity control options to better manage the dry air in your house? Call a Bell Brothers professional, we’re standing by and ready to answer your questions about indoor air quality and how we can help.

It’s a common question we get around this time of year, and it’s the reason you’re reading this right now: Why is there a burning smell from my furnace?

First — don't panic. While a burning smell is unnerving, it doesn't necessarily mean there's an emergency. Let’s dive into three of the most common smells, what they mean and what you can do.

Dust

What you smell:

A light, dust-like burning scent.

What it means:

When a furnace is inactive for a while, dust and dirt particles can settle on and inside your furnace and ducts. As cooler weather rolls in and the heat kicks on for the first time in months, the dust burns off and releases a faint odor. This is one of the most common causes of a burning smell from a furnace when it starts up for the season.

What to do:

Wait. This is common and the smell should dissipate within an hour or so. If it doesn't, check your air filter — you may need to replace it. When an air filter gets dirty or clogged, the blower motor works harder and may overheat, causing a burning-like smell. If replacing your filter doesn't work, give your HVAC technician a call to inspect the system.

Musty

What you smell:

A moldy, musty, dirty sock-type scent.

What it means:

There are two likely causes. If this is the first time you’ve fired up the heat in months, it could be dust and dirt that’s accumulated in your ducts. A musty smell could also mean that your filter is dirty or even has mold. While not always described as a burning smell from the furnace, musty odors often get confused with overheating odors because they linger.

What to do:

If the smell doesn't go away within an hour or so, check and replace your filter. If the smell still lingers, call a furnace professional. We'll inspect your unit for other possible sources of the odor.

Plastic

What you smell:

Burning plastic or a crayon-like smell.

What it means:

There are a few possible causes. It could mean a foreign object got too close to the furnace or even ended up inside. Do you have small children? To them, air vents are like tunnels of mystery, and dropping toys or other objects inside the vents can be incredibly tempting — we've seen our fair share of surprises! A burning plastic smell could also indicate something more serious, like a scorched wire.

A burning plastic smell could also indicate something more serious, like a scorched wire. This type of burning smell from a furnace should never be ignored, as it may point to an electrical hazard.

What to do:

If your furnace smells like burning plastic, turn it off right away and call a professional.

Other Furnace Smells

The following furnace smells could indicate a serious issue and should be checked right away. If you detect any of the following scents, call a professional immediately:

• Electrical-type burning
• Foul or rotten eggs
• Metallic

These odors are often more dangerous than a standard burning smell from a furnace caused by dust and should be treated as emergencies.

How to Avoid Strange Furnace Smells

The best way to prevent a burning smell from your furnace is regular maintenance. First, replace your filter as often as it needs. How often depends on the kind you have, but most filters should be replaced at least once a month. Other filters, like high-efficiency filters, can last as long as six months.

Second, schedule annual maintenance with an HVAC professional. We’ll clean your unit, switch out your filter, and check the components to ensure your system stays up and running to keep your family comfortable all year long. Regular maintenance helps you avoid not just burning odors but also costly breakdowns and inefficient performance.

Contact us online to schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment.

How HVAC Maintenance Can Extend Your System’s Lifespan

HVAC lifespan is often overlooked in today’s “instant gratification” culture. Over the last decade or so, our ideas about long-term planning and purchasing have changed as well. Rather than maintain things, many of us tend to wait and replace them when the time comes. And for some things, that’s fine.

But you wouldn’t just buy a different car every time your current one has a problem, would you? And you wouldn’t jump into that decision without saving some money and doing some research, right?

So why treat your heating and cooling system any differently? After all, the average cost for a new system is $7,500 to $10,000 – that’s like a used car!

Investing in an HVAC maintenance program is important, it can extend your HVAC lifespan and bring down your energy bill, both of which could cover the investment pretty quickly.

The maintenance your system requires depends on its age, your usage and some other factors around the home (for example, the age of your windows). Don’t assume you need the most expensive maintenance program just because your house is older. An HVAC provider can help you pick the right membership package for your specific home and heating and cooling needs.

So what should I do?

It’s pretty simple: Keep up on the maintenance of your HVAC system. Just like you get regular oil changes and tire rotations on your car, you need to schedule regular maintenance for your heating and cooling equipment.

Remembering to have annual maintenance on your AC and furnace is easier when you join a membership program. Bell Brother’s membership program is the Comfort Club. Members of the Comfort Club receive two system cleanings per year to keep things running smoothly, and diagnostic fees are waived for any issues we may discover. It also includes priority status when something goes wrong and up to two years of warranty on repairs made.

Protecting your HVAC lifespan means planning ahead. Here’s an insider tip: HVAC pros get pretty busy in the summer and winter, so it’s a great idea to schedule your AC checkup in the spring and furnace maintenance in the fall. That way, you aren’t stuck waiting, and you can trust that your system will be ready for the hottest and coldest days of the year.

What if I don’t enroll in a maintenance program?

Many heating and cooling equipment manufacturers’ warranties specify that if you don’t keep up on routine maintenance, your warranty can be voided. So, if you choose to forgo regular maintenance, be ready for the potential inconvenience of a some extra hot or cold – and expensive – days if your system fails.

Regular furnace and AC service help extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment, so it can save you big money in the long run. Plus, you’ll be happier with your air quality and temperature when things are working the way they’re supposed to, and you get the peace of mind that everything is running safely.

Annual maintenance programs typically run from about $180 to $575 a year, which isn’t much at all when you consider that $10,000 sticker shock you might face if you ignore the problem for too long.

What maintenance can I do on my own, and when do I need a professional?

You can handle changing your furnace filter monthly – that’s an easy one. It also helps not to run your furnace or AC at extremes. We recently wrote a post outlining the ideal temperatures for your home, which provides a helpful guide. Make sure the seals on your ducts are intact, and don’t block vents with furniture. Finally, be sure to keep the batteries in your thermostat up to date.

For anything more complicated than these tasks, you may want a technician to take a look, so you don’t hurt your chances of warranty coverage if something isn’t right. Sure, the internet can show you all kinds of “hacks,” but you’ll kick yourself later if things go awry.

As always, feel free to contact us with your HVAC questions, to schedule annual maintenance or to learn more about the Comfort Club. We’re here to help!