Boulder City NV Heat Pump Not Blowing Hot Air? Troubleshooting Tips

Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes

If your heat pump is not blowing hot air, do not panic. Many issues are simple and safe to check before you book a repair. This guide will help Las Vegas homeowners diagnose common causes, protect the system, and know when to call a pro. If you need same-day help, Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing offers a $79 heat pump repair diagnostic and can often get to you today when booked by 6 PM.

How Heat Pumps Make Heat in the Desert

Heat pumps move heat rather than create it. In heating mode, your outdoor unit pulls heat from the desert air and sends it indoors through refrigerant lines. In a dry Las Vegas winter, a properly functioning system should supply air that feels warmer than your room temperature and steadily raise your thermostat setting. If it is not, work through the checks below.

• Goal: confirm the system is in heating mode and has good airflow and power.
• Safety first: turn off power at the thermostat before touching panels or filters.

"Excellent service. Richie completed the required maintenance in a timely manner. He kept me informed on the maintenance and the options available to me."

Quick Checks You Can Do in 5 Minutes

Start with the easiest fixes. These solve many no-heat complaints.

1. Thermostat mode and setpoint
2. • Set to Heat, not Auto or Cool.
   • Raise the setpoint 3 to 5 degrees above room temperature.
   • If you have a programmable or smart stat, disable schedules for testing.
2. Fan setting
3. • Select Auto. On keeps the fan running even when there is no heat, which can feel like cold air.
3. Power cycle
4. • Turn the system Off at the thermostat for 60 seconds, then back On to reset.
4. Tripped breakers
5. • Check both the indoor air handler and outdoor heat pump breakers. Reset once. If it trips again, stop and call a pro.
5. Vents and returns
6. • Open at least 80% of supply vents. Clear furniture or rugs away from returns.

"The techs were very professional. They took pictures of all their work and explained everything completely."

Airflow Problems That Kill Heat

Restricted airflow makes the air feel cool and can force the system into protective limits.

• Dirty filter
• • Replace if you cannot see light through it. In Las Vegas dust, monthly checks are smart.
• Frozen or dirty indoor coil
• • If supply air is weak and the system struggles, turn it Off for 30 minutes to thaw. Do not chip ice.
• Clogged outdoor unit
• • Gently rinse debris off the coil. Keep 2 to 3 feet of clearance around the unit.
• Duct issues
• • Leaks in hot attics or crushed flex duct reduce delivered heat. If rooms vary wildly, schedule a duct inspection.

If airflow is restored and heat returns, monitor over the next 24 hours.

"The tech were very attentative and informative. The next day the installers arrive to install the units... very satisfied with the installation."

Defrost Mode: Not Broken, Just Doing Its Job

On cold mornings, your outdoor unit can frost up. The system will switch to defrost to melt ice. During defrost, the outdoor fan may stop and the system can momentarily blow cooler air indoors.

• What you will notice
• • Steam from the outdoor unit is normal.
  • Indoor air can feel neutral for a few minutes.
• What to do
• • Let the cycle finish. It typically lasts 3 to 10 minutes.
  • If the unit stays iced for more than 30 minutes, or defrosts constantly, call for service. That can indicate a sensor or control issue.

When the Auxiliary or Emergency Heat Runs

Many heat pumps use strip heat or auxiliary heat to help on the coldest mornings. If you see Aux Heat on the thermostat often, something may be off.

• Causes of frequent Aux
• • Dirty filter or coil reducing capacity.
  • Thermostat settings or miscalibration.
  • Refrigerant charge problems or a failing reversing valve.
• Quick action
• • Complete the airflow checks and verify the thermostat is configured for your equipment type.
  • If Aux stays on above 40 to 45 F, schedule diagnostics to protect your power bill.

The Reversing Valve: When Heat Feels Like Cool

If the heat pump runs but supply air is room temperature or cooler, the reversing valve may be stuck in cooling.

• Signs
• • Outdoor unit runs and lines are cold, not warm, in heating mode.
  • Indoor coil may get cold and cause drafts.
• Do not try this at home
• • Reversing valve and refrigerant work require EPA certified service. Turn the system Off and book a diagnostic to prevent compressor damage.

"Adrian and Omar were fantastic. They completed the HVAC install under extreme heat in minimum time. Extremely professional."

Refrigerant and Leak Concerns

Low refrigerant can reduce heating capacity and lead to icing.

• What you can check
• • Frost on the outdoor coil that returns quickly after defrost.
  • Hissing noises near line sets or oily residue at connections.
• What a pro will do
• • Measure superheat and subcooling, pressure test, find the leak, and repair before recharging. Topping off without fixing leaks is a waste.
• Why speed matters in Las Vegas
• • Dry cold nights and big daytime swings stress components. Running low on charge risks the compressor.

Thermostat Troubles: Small Device, Big Headaches

Smart thermostats help efficiency but must match your equipment.

• Compatibility
• • Heat pumps need proper O/B reversing valve settings and stage control.
• Power issues
• • A missing C-wire, tripped float switch, or a blown low-voltage fuse can knock the stat offline. If your air handler drain pan is full, address the cause before resetting.
• Quick test
• • Replace the thermostat batteries. Re-enter the heat pump configuration.

Electrical and Safety Lockouts

Modern systems use safeties to protect parts.

• Float switch tripped
• • A clogged condensate line triggers shutdown. Clear the drain and have the line cleaned.
• High pressure or low pressure switch
• • Often points to airflow or refrigerant problems. Do not bypass switches.
• Breaker trips again
• • Repeated trips point to a short or motor issue. Leave it off and call a licensed technician.

Outdoor Unit Will Not Run

If the indoor fan runs but the outdoor unit is silent in heating mode, check these items.

1. Outdoor disconnect
2. • Verify the pull-out or breaker by the condenser is seated.
2. Thermostat call
3. • Confirm Heat mode and a call for heat on the display.
3. Communication
4. • On communicating systems, a bad cable can stop the outdoor unit. Look for error codes.
4. Contact the pros
5. • Control boards, contactors, and defrost boards require testing with meters and manufacturer specs.

Indoor Air Feels Cool, But House Gets Warmer

Supply air from a heat pump is often 85 to 95 F in mild Las Vegas weather. That air can feel cool on your skin yet steadily heat the room.

• Compare temperature rise
• • Measure at a supply vent and a return grille. A 15 to 30 F rise is normal.
• Watch the trend
• • If the thermostat climbs toward the setpoint within 15 to 30 minutes, the system is working.
• If it never reaches setpoint
• • Recheck airflow items and schedule service to evaluate capacity.

Preventive Steps to Avoid No-Heat Emergencies

The best fix is the one you never need. Simple habits prevent most breakdowns.

• Change filters
• • Check monthly in our dusty climate. Replace at least every 60 to 90 days.
• Keep the outdoor coil clean
• • Rinse gently with water. Avoid high pressure that can bend fins.
• Clear the condensate line
• • Have a pro clean the drain to prevent float switch lockouts.
• Schedule tune-ups
• • A $149 Heat Pump Tune-Up at Sierra includes a No-Breakdown Guarantee for 6 months. If your system breaks within that window, we diagnose at no cost and credit your maintenance charge toward the repair. That is real protection during peak season.
• Consider membership
• • Sierra’s S.A.M. Plan is $16 per month and includes up to four annual visits, priority service, exclusive warranties, same-day parts replacement when available, and 15% off repairs. Members also receive credits toward service each year, capped at stated limits.

"We just bought a house that had a 23 year old system... The installation went smoothly and only took 1 day... Much quieter than before."

When to Call a Professional Immediately

Some symptoms need a licensed technician the same day.

• Burning or electrical smells
• Loud grinding, metal on metal, or compressor hard-start sounds
• Ice that returns minutes after a defrost cycle
• Breakers that trip again after one reset
• No outdoor unit operation with a known call for heat
• Repeated Aux Heat on milder days

Sierra offers a $79 Heat Pump Repair Diagnostic. If we perform the repair, we waive the diagnostic charge. Same-day service is available when booked by 6 PM, with no dispatch or service call fees.

How We Diagnose Heat That Will Not Heat

A clear process reduces guesswork and protects your budget.

1. Arrive same day when available and listen to your concerns.
2. Verify thermostat settings and equipment configuration.
3. Measure static pressure, temperature rise, and airflow.
4. Test defrost control, sensors, and reversing valve operation.
5. Check refrigerant charge with manufacturer specs.
6. Inspect electrical components, contactors, boards, and safeties.
7. Present options and transparent pricing before any work.

Repair vs Replace: Make the Smart Call

If your heat pump is older or unreliable, a replacement may save money long term. Las Vegas homes frequently upgrade to high efficiency air-source systems or mini-splits for zoned comfort.

• Replace indicators
• • System older than 12 to 15 years with frequent repairs.
  • Major components failing, such as a compressor or reversing valve, out of warranty.
  • Rising power bills and poor comfort.
• Why homeowners choose Sierra for installs
• • Free estimates, financing options, and installs as low as $199 per month on qualifying systems. Thorough load analysis and options for air-source, mini-split, water-source, and geothermal where applicable.

Local Insight for the Las Vegas Valley

Our climate is unique. Dry air, dust, and big temperature swings challenge heat pumps.

• Dust control matters
• • Construction dust and desert winds clog filters and coils. Shorten filter change intervals and schedule coil cleaning.
• Attics get hot even in winter sun
• • Leaky ducts waste heat. A quick duct pressure test can reveal big gains.
• Monsoon humidity events
• • Sudden moisture can frost outdoor coils faster. A healthy defrost system is key.

Two hard facts homeowners can use today

• Sierra’s $149 Heat Pump Tune-Up includes a six month No-Breakdown Guarantee with diagnostic at no cost if a breakdown occurs, plus the maintenance fee credited toward repair.
• S.A.M. Membership is $16 per month and delivers up to four visits per year, 15% off repairs, priority service, same-day parts replacement when available, and exclusive warranties, with stated annual credits toward service.

Simple Troubleshooting Flow

Follow this order to save time and protect your system.

1. Confirm Heat mode and raise setpoint by 3 to 5 degrees.
2. Set fan to Auto and replace the air filter.
3. Check breakers for indoor and outdoor units and reset once.
4. Verify vents and returns are clear.
5. Inspect the outdoor unit for icing and allow defrost to finish.
6. Power cycle the system for 60 seconds.
7. If still no heat, call Sierra for a $79 diagnostic. Same-day service available when you book by 6 PM.

Special Offers for Heat Pump Service

• $79 Heat Pump Repair Diagnostic with Same-Day Service. If we perform your repair, we waive the diagnostic charge.
• $149 Heat Pump Tune-Up with a No-Breakdown Guarantee for 6 months. If your system breaks within that period, we diagnose at no cost and credit your maintenance charge toward the repair.
• Heat Pump Installation for as low as $199 per month on qualifying systems. Free estimate and financing options available.

Call (702) 710-9106 or visit https://sierracoolslv.com/ to schedule. Book by 6 PM for same-day service. No service call fees and no dispatch fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my heat pump blowing cold air in Heat mode?

Heat pumps supply air around 85 to 95 F in mild weather, which can feel cool on your skin. If the thermostat is rising to your setpoint, the system is working. If not, check the filter, vents, and breakers, then call for diagnostics.

How long should a defrost cycle last?

Most defrost cycles last 3 to 10 minutes. Steam from the outdoor unit is normal. If the unit stays iced for more than 30 minutes or defrosts constantly, schedule service to check sensors and controls.

Should I use Emergency Heat?

Use Emergency Heat only if the outdoor unit will not run or is iced over. It uses more electricity. Fix the underlying issue quickly to avoid high bills.

How often should I change my heat pump filter in Las Vegas?

Check monthly due to dust. Replace every 60 to 90 days or sooner if dirty. Pets, construction, and allergies may require more frequent changes.

What is included in a professional heat pump tune-up?

At Sierra, a $149 Heat Pump Tune-Up includes a full inspection and carries a six month No-Breakdown Guarantee. If a breakdown occurs, we diagnose at no cost and credit the maintenance charge toward the repair.

Recap

A heat pump not blowing hot air usually comes down to mode settings, airflow, defrost, or controls. Work through the safe checks in this guide, then call a professional if you still lack heat. In the Las Vegas Valley, Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing offers fast, transparent help and proven guarantees to keep you comfortable.

Ready for Warm Air Again?

Call Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing now at (702) 710-9106 or schedule at https://sierracoolslv.com/.

• $79 diagnostic with same-day service when booked by 6 PM, waived with repair.
• $149 Heat Pump Tune-Up with a six month No-Breakdown Guarantee.
• Free estimate on new heat pumps, installs as low as $199 per month.

Get same-day service, no service call or dispatch fees, and certified pros who stand behind their work. Book your visit today.

About Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing

Since 1987, Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing has delivered award-winning HVAC service across the Las Vegas Valley. We are BBB A+ rated, a Lennox Premier Dealer, and a multi-year Best of Las Vegas winner. Homeowners choose us for same-day service if booked by 6 PM, no dispatch fees, vetted and certified technicians, transparent pricing, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Ask about our S.A.M. Membership for four annual visits, 15% off repairs, priority service, and exclusive warranties. Service that Soars Above the Rest.