Heat Pump Maintenance in Las Vegas
Seasonal tune-ups to keep your system running efficiently year-round
Short answer: Heat pumps need maintenance twice a year — once before cooling season and once before heating season — because they run year-round for both heating and cooling. The Cooling Company provides professional heat pump tune-ups throughout Las Vegas that optimize efficiency, extend system lifespan, and prevent breakdowns. Call (702) 567-0707 or Schedule Now.
If you heat and cool your Las Vegas home with a heat pump, your system works harder than a traditional air conditioner. An AC unit runs only during summer months. A heat pump runs year-round — cooling your home through Las Vegas's brutal summers and heating it during the surprisingly cold desert winters. That dual-duty operation means a heat pump accumulates wear at roughly twice the rate of a cooling-only system, which makes regular maintenance not just recommended but essential.
This page covers ongoing maintenance for existing heat pump systems. If you need a new heat pump installed, visit our heat pump installation page. If your heat pump needs to be replaced, see our heat pump replacement page.
Why Heat Pumps Need More Maintenance Than AC-Only Systems
A traditional central air conditioner in Las Vegas runs roughly 6 to 7 months of the year — from April through October. During winter, the furnace handles heating and the AC sits idle. A heat pump, however, handles both jobs. It is your air conditioner in summer and your heater in winter. Here is what that means for maintenance:
- Double the runtime — a heat pump operates 10 to 12 months per year in Las Vegas. More runtime means faster wear on the compressor, fan motors, electrical contacts, and refrigerant system.
- Reversing valve wear — heat pumps have a component that AC-only systems do not: the reversing valve. This valve switches the system between heating and cooling modes and can develop leaks or sticking problems over time.
- Defrost cycle stress — during cold weather, heat pumps run defrost cycles to melt frost that forms on the outdoor coil. These rapid heating-cooling transitions stress the compressor and associated components.
- Year-round debris exposure — in Las Vegas, the outdoor unit collects sand, dust, and landscape debris during every season, not just summer. Desert dust storms, construction activity, and dry soil create a constant coating on coils and fins.
- Refrigerant system under constant load — the refrigerant circuit operates in both directions throughout the year, increasing the chance of small leaks developing at joints and connections.
The bottom line: skipping maintenance on a heat pump in Las Vegas is roughly twice as risky as skipping it on an AC-only system. Systems that go without tune-ups lose efficiency faster, break down more often, and have shorter lifespans.
Heat Pump Maintenance Schedule for Las Vegas
We recommend two tune-ups per year for Las Vegas heat pump owners:
| Season | When to Schedule | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Spring tune-up (cooling prep) | March or April — before summer heat arrives | Cooling mode performance, refrigerant charge, condenser coil cleaning, airflow optimization, thermostat calibration |
| Fall tune-up (heating prep) | October or November — before heating season | Heating mode performance, reversing valve operation, defrost cycle test, auxiliary/emergency heat test, electrical connections |
Scheduling before peak season means any issues are caught and repaired before you actually need the system at full capacity. A spring tune-up ensures your heat pump is ready for 110-plus-degree days. A fall tune-up ensures it can heat efficiently on 30-degree winter nights.
What is Included in a Heat Pump Tune-Up
Our heat pump maintenance is comprehensive. Each tune-up covers both the outdoor and indoor components of your system:
Outdoor Unit Service
- Condenser coil cleaning — Las Vegas dust, sand, and debris accumulate on the coil and reduce heat transfer efficiency. We clean the coil thoroughly to restore performance.
- Fan motor inspection — check motor operation, lubricate bearings if applicable, and test amperage draw
- Compressor check — measure amperage, voltage, and compare to manufacturer specifications to identify early signs of wear
- Refrigerant charge — check system pressures and verify the charge matches manufacturer specifications. Low refrigerant indicates a leak that needs repair.
- Electrical connections — inspect and tighten all electrical terminals. Loose connections cause overheating, arcing, and component failure.
- Contactor and capacitor test — these components fail frequently in Las Vegas heat. We test them and recommend replacement before they cause a breakdown.
- Reversing valve test — verify the valve switches smoothly between heating and cooling modes
- Defrost board and sensor check — ensure the defrost system activates properly during heating season
- Base and mounting inspection — check that the unit is level, secure, and has adequate clearance for airflow
Indoor Unit Service
- Evaporator coil inspection — check for dirt buildup, ice formation, and proper airflow across the coil
- Blower motor and wheel — inspect the blower motor, clean the blower wheel, and verify proper airflow volume
- Air filter check — inspect the current filter and recommend the proper size and MERV rating for your system
- Condensate drain — flush the drain line to prevent clogs that cause water damage and system shutdowns
- Ductwork inspection — visual inspection of accessible ductwork for disconnections, damage, or significant leaks
- Thermostat calibration — verify the thermostat reads accurately and the system responds correctly to temperature commands
- Temperature split measurement — measure supply and return air temperatures to verify proper system performance in the current mode
System Performance Verification
- Cooling mode test — verify proper cooling output and temperature split (typically 15 to 22 degrees between supply and return air)
- Heating mode test — verify proper heating output, reversing valve operation, and auxiliary heat function
- Safety controls — test high-pressure switch, low-pressure switch, and other safety controls
- Written report — you receive a detailed report of everything checked, any issues found, and recommendations for repairs or improvements
How Maintenance Extends Your Heat Pump's Lifespan
A well-maintained heat pump in Las Vegas can last 12 to 15 years. A neglected heat pump often fails at 8 to 10 years. Here is how maintenance makes the difference:
| Maintenance Task | What It Prevents | Lifespan Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Coil cleaning | Compressor overheating from restricted airflow | Prevents the leading cause of compressor failure |
| Refrigerant check | Low charge that forces the compressor to work harder | Running low on refrigerant can halve compressor life |
| Electrical tightening | Loose connections that cause arcing, overheating, and fires | Prevents control board and wiring damage |
| Capacitor and contactor testing | Sudden failure during peak demand | Catching worn components before they damage the compressor |
| Condensate drain flush | Water damage and system shutdowns from clogged drains | Prevents mold, rust, and indoor water damage |
| Blower motor service | Bearing failure and airflow reduction | Maintains proper airflow that protects the evaporator coil |
The compressor is the most expensive component in a heat pump — replacement costs $1,200 to $3,000. Most compressor failures trace back to issues that routine maintenance would have caught: dirty coils causing overheating, low refrigerant causing liquid slugging, or electrical problems causing voltage damage.
Signs Your Heat Pump Maintenance Is Overdue
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a tune-up promptly:
- Higher energy bills — a gradual increase in electricity costs without changes in usage typically means your heat pump is losing efficiency due to dirty coils, low refrigerant, or worn components
- Longer run times — if the system runs longer than it used to in order to reach the set temperature, efficiency has dropped
- Uneven temperatures — rooms that were previously comfortable are now too warm or too cool, indicating airflow or refrigerant issues
- Unusual noises — clicking, buzzing, grinding, or rattling sounds during operation suggest loose or worn components
- Short cycling — the system turns on and off frequently in short intervals instead of running in steady cycles
- Ice on the outdoor unit in summer — ice forming on the outdoor coil during cooling mode indicates low refrigerant or airflow problems
- Musty smell from vents — indicates mold in the drain pan, coil area, or ductwork
- System not switching modes — if the heat pump heats but does not cool (or vice versa), the reversing valve may need attention
- It has been more than 6 months since last service — with twice-a-year maintenance recommended, going more than 6 months between tune-ups increases your risk
Heat Pump Maintenance Plan Options
The Cooling Company offers maintenance plans that make it easy to stay on schedule and save on service:
- Twice-yearly tune-ups — spring cooling prep and fall heating prep visits included
- Priority scheduling — plan members get moved to the front of the line when they need service, including during peak summer
- Discount on repairs — plan members receive a percentage discount on repair parts and labor if issues are found
- No diagnostic fee — plan members may receive a waived or reduced diagnostic fee on service calls
- Transferable — if you sell your home, the plan can transfer to the new owner, which is a selling point for buyers
For full details on our maintenance plans, including pricing and coverage specifics, visit our HVAC maintenance plans page or call (702) 567-0707.
DIY Maintenance Between Professional Visits
In addition to professional tune-ups, you can do a few things yourself to keep your heat pump running well between service visits:
- Change or clean your air filter every 1 to 3 months — a clogged filter is the most common cause of reduced airflow, frozen coils, and system strain. In Las Vegas, with desert dust and pet hair, monthly checks are wise.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear — maintain at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit. Remove leaves, landscape debris, and any storage items. Trim back plants and bushes.
- Rinse the outdoor unit — once a month during dusty periods, use a garden hose to gently rinse dust and debris off the outdoor coil fins. Do not use a pressure washer — it bends the fins.
- Check the condensate drain — if you see water pooling around your indoor unit, the drain may be clogged. Pour a cup of distilled vinegar down the drain line opening to help prevent algae buildup.
- Monitor your thermostat — if you notice the system running constantly or not reaching the set temperature, note the symptoms before calling for service
- Listen for changes — new noises (clicking, buzzing, grinding, rattling) are early warning signs. Note when they happen and during which mode (heating or cooling).
Heat Pump Maintenance Cost
| Service | Typical Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Single tune-up visit | $79 - $149 | Twice per year recommended |
| Annual maintenance plan | $149 - $299 per year | Includes both visits plus member benefits |
| Coil cleaning (deep clean) | $100 - $300 | Annually, or as needed based on buildup |
| Refrigerant recharge (if low) | $200 - $600 | Only if leak is present — included in diagnosis |
Plan pricing includes both seasonal tune-ups and member benefits. A la carte tune-ups are available if you prefer not to commit to a plan. Repair costs beyond the tune-up scope are quoted separately with upfront pricing.
Why Choose The Cooling Company for Heat Pump Maintenance
- Heat pump specialists — we understand the unique maintenance needs of heat pumps in Las Vegas, including reversing valve, defrost, and dual-mode operation
- NATE-certified technicians — industry-recognized expertise in heat pump service
- Lennox Premier Dealer — factory-trained on Lennox systems and qualified to service all major brands
- Comprehensive inspections — we check both heating and cooling mode performance, not just the mode that is currently in season
- Transparent reporting — you receive a detailed report of every item checked, its condition, and any recommendations
- No upsell pressure — we report what we find honestly. If your system is in good shape, we tell you that.
- Serving Las Vegas since 2011 — over a decade of maintaining heat pumps in desert conditions
Related Services
- Heat Pump Installation — new heat pump installation for homes switching from AC and furnace
- Heat Pump Replacement — replace an aging or failing heat pump with a modern, efficient system
- AC Maintenance — maintenance for traditional air conditioning systems
- Heating Maintenance — furnace and heating system tune-ups
- HVAC Maintenance Plans — comprehensive plans covering all your heating and cooling equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my heat pump serviced in Las Vegas?
Twice a year — once in spring before cooling season and once in fall before heating season. Because heat pumps run year-round for both heating and cooling, they need double the maintenance of a cooling-only AC system. Skipping the fall tune-up is a common mistake that leads to heating-mode breakdowns in winter.
What happens if I skip heat pump maintenance?
Skipping maintenance leads to progressive efficiency loss (typically 5% per year), shorter system lifespan, and higher risk of expensive breakdowns. Dirty coils force the compressor to work harder, low refrigerant causes compressor damage, and loose electrical connections can cause component failure. A heat pump that should last 12 to 15 years may fail at 8 to 10 years without maintenance.
How much does a heat pump tune-up cost?
A single heat pump tune-up typically costs $79 to $149. Our annual maintenance plans, which include both the spring and fall visits plus member benefits like priority scheduling and repair discounts, range from $149 to $299 per year. The plan is almost always the better value for heat pump owners who need two visits annually.
Is heat pump maintenance different from AC maintenance?
Yes. Heat pump maintenance includes everything in an AC maintenance visit plus additional checks specific to heat pumps: reversing valve operation, defrost cycle testing, auxiliary heat verification, and heating-mode performance measurement. Heat pumps also need two visits per year (spring and fall) instead of the single pre-summer visit recommended for AC-only systems.
How often should I change my heat pump's air filter?
Check your filter monthly and replace or clean it every 1 to 3 months. In Las Vegas, desert dust, construction activity, and pet hair can clog filters faster than in other climates. During dust storms or high-use periods, monthly replacement may be necessary. A dirty filter restricts airflow, strains the system, and can cause the evaporator coil to freeze.
Can maintenance prevent heat pump breakdowns?
Regular maintenance catches most problems before they cause a breakdown. Worn capacitors, low refrigerant, dirty coils, and loose wiring — the most common causes of heat pump failures — are all identified during routine tune-ups. While no maintenance program can prevent 100% of breakdowns, well-maintained heat pumps experience significantly fewer emergency failures than neglected systems.
Does heat pump maintenance affect my warranty?
Most heat pump manufacturers require proof of regular maintenance for warranty claims. If a component fails and the manufacturer determines the system was not maintained according to their guidelines, the warranty claim may be denied. Keeping records of your annual tune-ups protects your warranty coverage. Our maintenance plans include documentation for this purpose.
My heat pump is new. Does it still need maintenance?
Yes. New heat pumps should receive their first maintenance visit within the first year of operation. Las Vegas dust and debris accumulate on coils quickly, and verifying the system is operating to specification after it has been through its first summer and winter ensures everything was installed correctly and is performing as designed. Early maintenance also establishes the baseline documentation needed for warranty support.
Schedule Your Heat Pump Tune-Up
Do not wait for a breakdown to discover your heat pump needed attention. Schedule your seasonal tune-up now and keep your system running efficiently year-round. Call (702) 567-0707 or book online. Our NATE-certified technicians will make sure your heat pump is ready for whatever Las Vegas weather throws at it.
Need HVAC Service in Las Vegas?
The Cooling Company provides expert HVAC service throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, and North Las Vegas. Our licensed technicians deliver honest assessments, upfront pricing, and reliable results.
Call (702) 567-0707 or visit AC repair, maintenance, heating, or installation for details.