Expert Heating Repairs by Neil Slattery Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

Our skilled technicians are adept at diagnosing and repairing a wide array of heating system issues, regardless of the make, model, or type of heating unit (furnace, boiler, heat pump, etc.). Some of the most common heating problems we address include:

No Heat or Insufficient Heat: The most obvious sign of a problem. This could be due to a faulty thermostat, pilot light issues (for gas furnaces), a tripped circuit breaker, or a problem with the fuel supply.
Strange Noises:

• Banging, rattling, or squealing: Often indicates loose parts, a failing motor, or issues with the fan belt.
• Grinding or scraping: Can signal issues with motor bearings.
• Popping: Might be related to dirty burners or internal combustion issues.

Frequent Cycling (Short Cycling): If your heater turns on and off too frequently, it could be oversized, have a clogged air filter, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

High Energy Bills: A noticeable increase in your heating costs without a change in usage often means your system is losing efficiency and working harder than it should.

Uneven Heating: If some rooms are warm while others remain cold, it could point to problems with your ductwork, a struggling blower, or an improperly sized system.

Pilot Light Problems (for gas furnaces):

• Pilot light goes out frequently: Can indicate a dirty or faulty thermocouple.
• Yellow or flickering pilot light: A critical safety concern, as it signals incomplete combustion and potential carbon monoxide production. If you see a yellow pilot light, turn off your furnace immediately and call a professional.

Foul Odors:

• Burning smell: A slight burning smell when you first turn on your furnace is normal as dust burns off. However, a persistent burning smell, or a smell like burning plastic, indicates a serious electrical issue.
• Sulfur or rotten egg smell: This is the odor added to natural gas to detect leaks. If you smell this, evacuate your home immediately, call 911 and your gas company, then contact us.
• Musty smell: Suggests mold or mildew growth in the system or ductwork.

Blower Runs Continuously: If your furnace blower never turns off, even when the heating cycle is complete, it could be a thermostat issue or a problem with the limit switch.

Water Leaks (especially with boilers or humidifiers): Puddles or drips around your heating unit or baseboards are red flags indicating a leak that needs immediate attention.