Dust & Debris

Desert winds bring fine dust that clogs burners, heat exchangers, and filters. Dirty systems run inefficiently and can overheat or fail when you need them most.

• Solution: Annual professional cleaning + filter changes
• Check flame sensors and ignition systems

Infrequent Use

Many Mohave County homeowners only run heat a few months per year. Systems that sit idle accumulate dust and may develop minor issues that go unnoticed until the first cold snap.

• Solution: Pre-season tune-up catches problems early
• Test run before temperatures drop

Heat Pump Efficiency

Heat pumps work year-round in our climate, but they need clean coils and proper refrigerant charge to heat efficiently when outdoor temps dip below 50°F.

• Solution: Check defrost cycles and backup heat strips
• Learn more about heat pumps

1) Replace Air Filters

Start the heating season with a fresh filter (MERV 8–13). Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder and less efficiently.

• Check monthly; replace as needed
• Upgrade to pleated or media filters for better filtration

Best for: improving airflow and efficiency.

2) Clear Vents & Registers

Make sure supply and return vents aren’t blocked by furniture, curtains, or debris. Good airflow is essential for even heating and system health.

• Vacuum register grilles to remove dust buildup
• Open all vents in occupied rooms

3) Test Your Thermostat

Switch to heat mode and set temp 5° above current temp. Listen for the system to start within a few minutes. If it doesn’t respond, check batteries or wiring.

• Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat
• Proper scheduling saves energy and maintains comfort

4) Schedule Professional Maintenance

Annual tune-ups catch small issues before they become expensive repairs. A technician will clean components, check safety controls, and test system performance.

• Best time: September or October, before first cold snap
• Schedule your heater tune-up

5) Inspect Ductwork

Leaky ducts waste heated air in attics and crawl spaces. Sealing ducts improves comfort and lowers bills.

• Learn about duct sealing
• Check for visible gaps, loose connections

6) Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If you have a gas furnace, working CO detectors are critical for safety. Test them and replace batteries as needed.

• Install detectors on every level of your home
• Replace units older than 7–10 years