Winter HVAC Maintenance Tips for Albuquerque

Living in Albuquerque means learning to dress in layers. One minute you’re soaking up the sun on a 60-degree afternoon, and by the time the sun dips behind the volcanoes, temperatures are plummeting toward freezing.

That famous "High Desert Swing" isn't just hard on your wardrobe—it puts a massive strain on your home’s heating system. Your furnace or heat pump has to work overtime to combat those freezing desert nights after sitting idle during our mild afternoons.

At Enchanted Mechanical, we want to make sure you aren't left shivering when the Sandias turn white. Here is your essential checklist for winter HVAC maintenance in Albuquerque.

The "New Mexico Dust" Factor: Change Your Filters

It is the simplest tip, but also the most ignored. In New Mexico, we deal with fine dust, pollen, and blowing sand that you don't find in other parts of the country.

• The Problem: A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your furnace to run longer and hotter to heat your home. This spikes your PNM/NM Gas bill and can overheat your heat exchanger.

• The Fix: Check your filter every 30 days during winter. If you have pets or live in a dusty area (like the West Mesa), you might need to change it monthly.
  
  

Give Your Vents Room to Breathe

We all love rearranging furniture for the holidays, but be careful not to block your supply or return vents.

• Why it matters: Your HVAC system breathes in and out. If you block a return vent with a couch or a Christmas tree, you are "suffocating" the system. This creates pressure imbalances that can wear out the blower motor prematurely.

• Quick Check: Walk through every room and ensure there are at least 12 inches of clearance around every vent.
  
  

Clear the Tumbleweeds (and Snow)

If you have a heat pump or a refrigerated air unit, the outdoor condenser needs to be clear to function.

• The ABQ Hazard: In the fall and winter, tumbleweeds and dry leaves love to pile up against outdoor units. This blocks airflow and kills efficiency.

• Snow Protocol: On those rare mornings when we wake up to snow in the Duke City, gently brush snow off the top of your unit. Never chop at ice with a shovel—you could puncture the coils!
  
  

Test Your Thermostat

Is your thermostat "ghosting" you? Sometimes the issue isn't the furnace; it's the brain controlling it.

• The Test: Turn your thermostat to "HEAT" and raise the temp 5 degrees above the current room temperature. You should hear the furnace kick on within a minute or two.

• Upgrade Tip: If you are still using an old manual slider, consider upgrading to a Smart Thermostat. They are perfect for our climate because they can automatically adjust for those warm afternoons and cold nights, saving you money.
  
  

The Safety Critical: Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Because many homes in Albuquerque rely on gas furnaces, Carbon Monoxide (CO) safety is non-negotiable. A cracked heat exchanger (often caused by the thermal shock of our temperature swings) can leak invisible, odorless gas into your home.

• Action Item: Test your CO detectors today. If they are older than 5-7 years, replace them immediately.
  
  

When to Call the Pros

DIY maintenance is great for upkeep, but some things require a licensed expert. You should call Enchanted Mechanical if:

• You hear banging, squealing, or rattling noises.

• Your burner flame is yellow instead of a crisp blue (this can indicate a combustion issue).

• Your heating bill has spiked unexpectedly.
  
  

Don't Wait for the Freeze! At Enchanted Mechanical, LLC, we are your neighbors. We know the local climate, and we know how to keep your family safe and comfortable.