When most people think about furnace maintenance, they picture technicians checking filters, inspecting burners, or ensuring the system runs efficiently. What they don’t expect is wildlife.

But during a recent HVAC service call in Dubuque, Iowa, our team discovered four bats living inside a customer’s furnace. Yes—four.

This surprising (and unsettling) find is a perfect reminder of why regular furnace maintenance is critical not only for comfort but for safety and air quality.

How Do Bats Get in a Furnace?

Furnaces, especially in older homes, often have small access points: intake vents, disconnected ducts, or improperly sealed openings. Bats and other small animals like mice or squirrels may crawl in seeking warmth—especially in fall and winter.

Without regular inspection, these creatures can:

• Damage internal components
• Cause unpleasant odors
• Spread allergens or bacteria
• Lead to system failure or fire hazards

Why Schedule Routine Furnace Maintenance?

Here’s what professional HVAC maintenance can prevent or resolve:

• Blockages or damage from debris or animals
• Carbon monoxide leaks from faulty heat exchangers
• Increased energy bills from dirty filters or poor airflow
• Emergency breakdowns in the middle of winter
• Shortened system lifespan

Serving Dubuque and Surrounding Areas

Whether you live in Dubuque, Asbury, or Peosta, our team at AMC Homes provides thorough, affordable furnace inspections and repairs.



We’ll check everything—from the blower motor to the venting—to make sure your furnace is safe, clean, and ready for the cold season.

Don’t Wait—Book Your Furnace Inspection Today

Whether it’s bats, blockages, or just basic w ear and tear, what’s hiding in your furnace could cost you more than you think. Beat the cold—and the critters—with a proactive inspection.