Backup Home Generators for Weathering Storms

Summer storms on Long Island can be severe. We often experience thunderstorms, high winds, and even hurricanes during the late summer and early fall months. These weather events can cause power outages, which can sometimes last for hours or even days. For this reason, many homeowners on Long Island are choosing to install standby generators in their homes.

In this article, we’ll talk about how generators work and some of the benefits homeowners can expect by installing one. We’ll also share how T.F. O’Brien can help you weather any storm by providing expert generator installation. Keep reading below to learn more!

Standby Generator 101: How They Work

Standby generators connect to existing electrical and standby fuel lines and are installed permanently outside the home. Here’s how a standby generator works:

  1. They monitor incoming voltage from the utility power supply and automatically start within seconds when a power outage occurs.
  2. An automatic transfer switch seamlessly disconnects the home from the utility line and connects it to the generator’s power supply.
  3. Generators run on natural gas or liquid propane fuel, providing continuous electricity until the power company restores service.
  4. Regular self-tests ensure the generator is always ready for an outage.

Choosing a standby generator for your home provides you with a safety net during a power outage, and also enhances comfort, security, and property value.

Why Should I Choose a Standby Generator?

Nobody likes to think about dealing with a prolonged power outage, but during a severe weather event, it can happen. A home standby generator can help in many ways, including:

  • Protection: Standby generators keep the lights on, refrigerators running, and homes comfortable during power outages caused by severe weather or other events. For people who use medical equipment, generators can literally be a lifesaver.
  • Cost-Effective: Standby generators can help prevent costly damage from freezing pipes, flooding, food spoilage, and medical consequences. They can also increase the value of your property.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home and family are protected during multi-day outages is invaluable. Having backup power means you’ll be able to keep on top of weather updates, keep your cell phone and laptop charged, and stay connected.

T.F. O’Brien can help meet your generator needs.

At T.F. O’Brien, we’re pleased to provide our customers with quality residential generators, as well as generator repair and maintenance. We offer automatic standby generators that back up the circuits you choose during a power outage. They automatically start within seconds of detecting power loss and run on your home’s existing natural gas or LP fuel supply. You’ll be able to choose a backup option from essential circuit, managed whole-house, or complete whole-house coverage.

Want to learn more about installing a quality generator in your home? We’re ready to assist you. Just call us at 516.488.1800 to schedule an appointment with us today.

Breathe Easy: Enhancing Indoor Air Quality for Kids

dad and kid playing on floorSchool’s out for the summer, and that means the kids will be hanging out at home more often than usual. During the summer months, there’s sure to be a lot of outdoor play, but there are a variety of weather conditions that can drive the kids indoors, like rainy days and heat waves. That’s why it’s important to make sure your home has good indoor air quality.

While keeping an eye on your indoor air quality (IAQ) all year long is a good idea, during the summer, your family may be around the house much more often – and any family member with allergies or respiratory concerns like asthma may need a few extra measures taken to ensure your IAQ is at its best. In this article, we’ll explore some of the ways you can make your indoor air cleaner, fresher, and healthier for your family. Keep reading to learn more!

7 Steps to Cleaner Indoor Air for Your Family

  1. Ventilation Matters: Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining fresh air indoors. You can improve your home’s ventilation by opening windows to allow fresh air circulation and using exhaust fans in rooms like the kitchen and bathroom to remove pollutants. If you’re adding new furniture to your home this summer, let it air out before placing it in your home, as some new furniture can release volatile organic compounds or VOCs.
  2. Filter It Out: Invest in high-quality air filters for your HVAC system. Look for filters with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating of 8 or higher. Change filters regularly to keep the air clean. Additionally, some homes need advanced air purification. Systems like the Aerus Air Scrubber can reduce harmful allergens, bacteria, and other contaminants.
  3. Greenery and Natural Purifiers: Plants add beauty to your home and improve IAQ. Spider plants are a good choice to help enhance the home environment, as they absorb pollutants, release oxygen, and are generally considered non-toxic to pets and children.
  4. Say No to Smoking Indoors: Tobacco smoke contains harmful chemicals, and those chemicals can settle and linger on your home’s furnishings and carpeting. A smoke-free home is the safest bet for your family.
  5. Humidity Control: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Use a dehumidifier if necessary to prevent mold growth.
  6. Clean Regularly: Dust, vacuum, and mop frequently. Pay attention to areas where dust accumulates, such as carpets, curtains, and upholstery.
  7. Avoid Synthetic Fragrances: Many air fresheners and scented cleaning products emit VOCs. Opt for natural alternatives like essential oil diffusers or simply open windows for a refreshing breeze.

Remember, a healthy home environment with good indoor air quality contributes to your family’s overall well-being.

Let T.F. O’Brien help you get better indoor air quality this summer.

If you need to improve your home’s indoor air quality, T.F. O’Brien is ready to help you. Simply give us a call at (516) 488-1800, and we will be more than happy to schedule an appointment with you.

5 Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Hot Steaming Water Running from Kitchen FaucetHave you been considering updating the water heater in your home? If your home’s current water heater is more than 10 years old, has needed a lot of repairs, or is sapping energy, it may be time to think about a replacement. Depending on the hot water demands of your family and lifestyle, tankless water heating may be the right option.

Why Choose Tankless for My Long Island Home?

In a traditional water heater system, water is kept in a storage tank and continuously heated, which can mean high energy usage, especially in older tank systems. While the cost for a tank system is generally lower up front than a tankless system, often the benefits of a tankless system outweigh its initial higher cost. Here are some benefits to consider:

  1. Energy Efficiency: Because tankless systems heat water on demand, when you need it, they don’t have the standby energy loss associated with a tank system. They often are 30-50% more efficient than a traditional system, depending on the needs of your home.
  2. Longer Lifespan: In a traditional tank system, water stands in the tank for prolonged periods of time, which can lead to mineral deposits. Over time, these deposits can greatly reduce system efficiency, while increasing the need for repair. In a tankless system, the water is heated when it flows through the system, so minerals don’t build up as much, helping your system last longer.
  3. Space Saving: Most tankless systems are compact and are mounted on the wall, freeing up valuable space in your home. No large storage tank required!
  4. Instant Hot Water: If you have a traditional water heater, you may know the inconvenience and discomfort of being the last person in the shower in the morning. Losing hot water mid-shower is not a problem with a tankless system, as water is heated on demand and delivered instantly.
  5. Equipment Safety: If you live in an area where your basement frequently floods, you probably know the pain of having to replace equipment that has been damaged, such as your water heater tank. As we mentioned above, tankless systems are usually mounted on the wall of your basement, keeping them free of any flooding or moisture that may collect on the basement floor.

I’d like to learn more. Can T.F. O’Brien help?

We can! At T.F. O’Brien, we’re pleased to provide high-quality Rinnai tankless water heaters to our customers. We can tell you more about the benefits of tankless water heaters, and help you find the right model for your home. Call us at 516.488.1800 to learn more about these great products.

Do I Need Air Conditioning Repair?

air conditioning technicianNow that we have returned to warmer weather on Long Island, it’s likely that you’re relying on your home’s air conditioning system to keep you nice and cool. But maybe it doesn’t seem to be working as well as it should this year. You might not be feeling cool enough, or you might be noticing an increase in your utility bills.

That’s why it’s good to know the signs that your air conditioning system may need repair. In this article, we’ll share five common problems you should look for and explain how we can help. Keep reading to learn more!

Signs You May Need AC Repair

Nobody likes to think about their AC system breaking down completely. While it’s not exactly good news, there are fortunately some signs your air conditioning system will likely give you before it has a full breakdown, including:

  • Inconsistent or inadequate cooling: Experiencing hot and cold spots in different rooms might indicate issues with vents, ductwork, or the thermostat. Additionally, reduced airflow from vents can be a sign of blocked air filters, obstructed ducts, or a malfunctioning blower fan.
  • Higher-than-usual utility bills: When there are components within your AC system that aren’t working properly, that can cause your unit to work much harder than it would normally to provide the same level of cooling. This will likely cause a spike in your energy costs.
  • Ice on outdoor unit: Icy buildup on the outdoor portion of your air conditioning system is never a normal part of operation. Ice on your unit usually means there is some issue with your system’s heat exchange. Causes range from dirty filters or inadequate refrigerant levels to problems with the blower fan, so it’s best to have it checked by a professional.
  • Indoor air quality concerns: There are several different indoor air quality issues that may present themselves if your air conditioning system isn’t working properly. You might notice that your home is unusually dusty, or that there are stale, musty odors present when your AC runs. You may also notice higher humidity levels.
  • Unusual noises: All air conditioning systems make some noise when they operate. But if your system has been making clanking, rattling, or grinding noises, it may have loose or damaged components.

It’s important to address these issues promptly to maintain comfort and efficiency in your home. If you notice any of these signs, consider contacting a professional for a thorough inspection and repair.

T.F. O’Brien can help you get the air conditioning repairs you need.

T.F. O’Brien provides complete air conditioning services, including air conditioning repair, maintenance, and new system installation. If you’re having problems with your AC system, there’s no need to sweat it – call us at 516.488.1800 and we’ll be more than happy to take a look at your system and help you get the repairs needed to stay cool and comfortable.

Suffering from Seasonal Allergies? Here’s How to Improve Your IAQ.

young family sitting on the living room floor with their dogOnce spring has sprung, most people enjoy the warmer temperatures, sunnier days, and vibrant landscapes filled with blossoms and blooms. But for people with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions, spring can mean sniffling, sneezing, and discomfort.

While there isn’t much we can do about pollen and other allergens outside, fortunately, there are ways we can improve the quality of the air inside our homes. In this article, we’ll discuss two products that can help you and your family enjoy improved indoor air quality (IAQ) this spring, and how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

What products can help me get better indoor air quality?

There are many different types of IAQ products available that can help people get better air quality in their homes. Air cleaners, air purifiers, and advanced filtration are all types of IAQ products that help eliminate particulates and pathogens from your home’s air. Two products that offer incredible air cleaning benefits include the Air Scrubber by Aerus® and the REME HALO®.

Air Scrubber by Aerus

The Air Scrubber by Aerus provides both air and surface purification. It attaches directly to your HVAC system’s ductwork and effectively reduces allergens, viruses, bacteria, and other contaminants in both the ambient air and on surfaces when the HVAC fan is running. The Air Scrubber has been proven to reduce up to 99.9% of many common airborne and surface contaminants.

Watch the Video to Learn More

REME HALO

The REME HALO purifies the air in your home using ultraviolet light and other proprietary technologies to improve your home’s indoor air quality. It is able to produce low levels of hydrogen peroxide in the air that circulates through your HVAC system, which allows it to effectively reduce bacteria, viruses, mold spores, odors, and other contaminants both in the air and on surfaces.

Watch the Video to Learn More

How can T.F. O’Brien help improve my indoor air quality?

At T.F. O’Brien, we take a proactive, three-step approach to helping our customers enjoy the best indoor air quality possible.

  1. We filter the air by installing a highly efficient air cleaner. This is a much more effective solution than standard filters.
  2. We install a photocatalytic oxidizing air purifier to chemically treat the air to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are the byproducts of common household materials like paint, carpet, vinyl flooring, air fresheners, cleaning products, and more, as well as other pollutants.
  3. We install ultraviolet germicidal lights that kill up to 99% of airborne contaminants like mold, bacteria and viruses.

Depending on your home’s needs, we may also recommend equipment to regulate your humidity levels. No two homes are the same, and we’ll be happy to send one of our Home Comfort Advisors to meet with you at your convenience to evaluate your unique situation and make recommendations.

Call T.F. O’Brien today to schedule an appointment.

There’s no need to suffer through yet another allergy season – T.F. O’Brien is ready to help you. Simply give us a call at (516) 488-1800, and we will be more than happy to schedule an appointment with you.

5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Ductless This Spring

Happy relaxed woman holding AC remote controlOnce spring arrives on Long Island, people start to think about ways to improve their homes. For people with bonus rooms and converted spaces in their primary residence, or for those with summer homes, cooling those areas is a priority. However, those areas may not have ductwork, and in that instance, cooling may seem like a challenge.

Fortunately, there is a great solution for people with homes, or spaces in their homes, that don’t have ductwork – ductless cooling. In this article, we’ll discuss some situations where ductless may be the optimal choice, the benefits of ductless systems, and how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

Is a ductless mini-split system right for my home?

Ductless systems offer cooling (and in many instances, heating) in spaces where ductwork is not practical or possible. If you have added to your home, converted unused areas like attics or garages into living spaces, or have a finished basement that does not have access to your home’s central heating and air conditioning system, ductless is an ideal choice.

It can also be useful in summer homes, where people often rely on window air conditioning for cooling. And, ductless can be a whole-home comfort solution, perfect for homes that use radiant heating, as most of these residences do not have a duct system to accommodate central air conditioning.

Top 5 Ductless Benefits

As we’ve discussed, ductless can be an ideal solution across a wide range of situations. Whether you need it for one space or as a whole-home solution, ductless provides numerous benefits beyond just keeping you comfortable. Ductless offers:

  1. Energy Efficiency: Most ductless systems use heat pump technology to operate, which is one of the most efficient methods of cooling and heating on the market. Ductless systems don’t burn fossil fuel, making them an environmentally sound choice as well.
  2. Easy Operation: Ductless systems are installed high on a wall or in the ceiling and are generally controlled using a remote control. They’re quiet, unobtrusive, and can easily be adjusted simply by pressing a button.
  3. Targeted Comfort: Ductless systems are installed as an individual unit in one room, or multiple units throughout your home. This allows you to enjoy the exact comfort you want, no matter what room you’re in.
  4. Year-Round Use: Many ductless systems offer both cooling and heating all in one unit. So, you won’t have to rely on window air conditioners in the summer and space heaters in the winter to stay comfortable. Ductless can do both, all in one convenient unit.
  5. No-Mess Installation: Installing ductwork in a space can mean extensive remodeling, which is both costly and inconvenient. Ductless systems are virtually mess-free, as they only require the installation technician to drill a small hole that connects the indoor and outdoor units.

T.F. O’Brien offers expert ductless system installation.

At T.F. O’Brien, we take pride in providing our customers with all the home comfort solutions they need to enjoy their homes. We offer complete ductless system services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. If you think ductless may be the right choice for your home, simply give us a call at (516) 488-1800, and we will be more than happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Warmer Weather is Coming… Is Your AC System Ready?

young woman enjoying her bouquet of tulips while resting on the window sill at homeOnce the spring season arrives on Long Island, we can start to look forward to warmer outdoor temperatures. That means you may start to think about your air conditioning system, and if it’s ready for the season ahead. One of the best ways to make sure your AC system will be prepared to keep your home nice and cool is by getting annual maintenance.

There are many reasons why regularly maintaining your air conditioning system is a good idea. In this article, we’ll explore some of the benefits to getting annual professional maintenance, and what you as a homeowner can do to help keep your AC system in tip-top shape. We’ll also explain how T.F. O’Brien can help – keep reading to learn more!

What can homeowners do to make sure their AC system is ready?

As a homeowner, the best thing you can do to ensure your air conditioning system is ready for warmer temperatures is to call your HVAC contractor to set up your maintenance service appointment. In preparation for their visit, you should make sure that any debris that may have collected around your outdoor unit is removed, and any vegetation growing around your unit is trimmed away. That will make it easier for your technician to get the job done.

Additionally, you will want to make sure the filter used by your heating and central air conditioning system is clean. It’s a good idea to change this filter regularly, as it helps maintain system efficiency and keeps the dust and dirt particles from collecting in your system.

How can air conditioning maintenance benefit my system?

Some of the main benefits of getting annual maintenance for your AC system include:

  • Promotes Consistent Cooling: Regular maintenance keeps your AC running smoothly, so your home stays evenly cool.
  • Helps Save Energy: Regular maintenance keeps your AC in top shape to maintain its efficiency and reduce energy bills.
  • Helps Avoid Big Repairs: Routine checks can spot and fix small issues before they become big, costly problems.
  • Allows for Cleaner Air: Clean AC systems mean less dust and dirt in your air, making it healthier to breathe.
  • Maintains Your Warranty: Regular service by a professional is often needed to keep your AC’s warranty valid.

How can T.F. O’Brien help?

At T.F. O’Brien, we offer complete air conditioning services to help ensure your AC is ready to keep you and your family nice and cool when the warmer temperatures hit. That includes providing you with the seasonal maintenance you need, as well as offering comprehensive maintenance plans. To learn more about our air conditioning maintenance services, or to schedule an appointment with us, simply give us a call at (516) 488-1800, and we will be more than happy to help you.

Show Your Family Some Love with Cleaner Indoor Air

mother and daughter playingIt’s February, which means Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and love is in the air. Unfortunately, during the winter months, our homes are often closed off to the fresh outdoor air – which can mean dust, pet dander, and other particles are also in the air. The good news is that there are effective indoor air quality (IAQ) products that can help.

Maybe you’d like to get better IAQ for your family this winter but aren’t sure what types of products are available. In this article, we’ll talk about different IAQ products, how they keep the air clean in your home, and how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

IAQ Products & What They Do to Provide Better Indoor Air

Depending on the specific IAQ needs of your home, there are several products available that can help provide fresher, cleaner air for you and your family. These include:

  • High-Efficiency Air Filters: The standard filter on your HVAC system is designed to keep particulates out of your system and help it operate more effectively and efficiently. However, most homes need a higher level of filtration to keep particulates out of the air you and your family breathe. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a high-efficiency air filter can “theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns.” That can be helpful for people who suffer from allergies and other respiratory illnesses.
  • Air Purifiers: Photocatalytic oxidizing air purifiers chemically treat the air to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are the byproducts of common household materials like paint, carpet, vinyl flooring, air fresheners, cleaning products, and more, as well as other pollutants. For people in your family sensitive to the artificial fragrances often used in household products, an air purifier can improve indoor air quality by removing these compounds.
  • Ultraviolet (UV) Lights: UV germicidal lights can kill up to 99% of airborne contaminants like mold, bacteria, and viruses. This can help prevent illness and help keep the air in your home fresher, cleaner, and healthier to breathe.
  • Humidity Regulation: Some homes are too damp, while others are too dry. Overly damp homes can host mold and bacteria growth, making the air in your home smelly and potentially unhealthy. An environment that’s too dry, conversely, can cause your family to experience flaky skin, itchy eyes, and dry throats and noses. Products like dehumidification systems and humidifiers can help regulate the moisture in your home and bring your home’s humidity to the proper level.

T.F. O’Brien can help you get the indoor air quality solutions you need.

If you’re ready for a whole-house air quality solution that will help show your family the love this winter, we’re ready to be your IAQ cupids! No two homes are the same, and we’ll be happy to send one of our Home Comfort Advisors to meet with you at your convenience to evaluate your unique situation and make recommendations, and you and your family will be breathing fresher, cleaner air in no time. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 to get started.

How Do I Know if My Heating System Needs Repair?

cold woman wearing winter clothing and blanket indoorsNow that Old Man Winter has arrived on Long Island, you probably have needed to use your heating system to stay warm and comfortable. If your home isn’t as comfortable as you’d like, though, your heating system could use a check-up. Often, heating systems don’t just stop working altogether – there are indications that they may need repairs that occur before a complete breakdown.

The good news is that by recognizing the signs that your heating system may be in trouble, you can often prevent much more expensive repairs or replacements. In this article, we’ll talk about the various types of heating systems most people have in their homes and some of the signs they may give if they need service. And, we’ll tell you how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

Signs Your Heating System May Need Service

It can be difficult to know if your heating system needs repair. Sometimes, finding the signs your specific equipment type might give isn’t easy. Below, we’ve outlined some of the signs for each type of heating system we install – learn more below:

Furnaces

Most people in the Northeastern part of the U.S. have furnaces installed in their homes. Furnaces use fuel, such as gas or oil, to supply heat throughout the home. Here are a few things you should be on the lookout for if you suspect your furnace isn’t working properly:

  • Higher than usual energy bills
  • Foul or burning odors
  • Unusual noises like grinding or squealing
  • Uneven heating throughout the home
  • Carbon monoxide alarm sounding

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, you should have your furnace checked out by a professional HVAC technician as soon as possible. If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, you should leave your home at once and call 911. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause serious illness and can be fatal.

Boilers

Boilers are the second most common type of heating equipment in the Northeast. Using gas or oil, they heat water which is then sent to radiators in each room of your home. The radiators then provide your home with the warmth it needs to keep you comfortable. If your boiler isn’t working effectively, you may notice the following:

  • Radiators not heating well/no heat at all
  • Signs of water leakage near or on the boiler
  • Unusual noises such as pops and pings
  • Low water pressure
  • The pilot light will not stay lit

If you’ve checked your thermostat and that doesn’t seem to be the problem, the next step is to call your HVAC professional. Please note that a leaky boiler can do a lot of damage to your home quickly, so if you notice water collecting around your boiler or see an obvious leak, call as soon as possible.

Heat Pumps

While both ducted and ductless heat pump systems have been used for quite some time in the Southern U.S., they are steadily gaining popularity in the Northeast. That’s because heat pumps offer effective, efficient heating and cooling, all in one unit. If your heat pump needs repair, it will show some signs, including:

  • Increased energy bills for no apparent reason
  • Ice on the coil on the outdoor component
  • Short cycling
  • Poor airflow (this can indicate leaks in ductwork or a clogged filter)
  • Constant operation (please note, during extremely cold weather your heat pump will run more frequently)

Not only is it important to get your heat pump checked as soon as possible if it isn’t heating your home properly, but you’ll also want to consider that you’ll need it for cooling during the summer, too. While it can provide you with high-efficiency, year-round comfort, a problem that goes unchecked can spill over into the next season when you need it for cooling – and nobody wants a total breakdown on a hot summer day!

How can T.F. O’Brien help me get my heating system repaired?

At T.F. O’Brien, we take great pride in providing our customers with complete heating services for furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps, including repair, maintenance, and installation. Our skilled technicians can easily troubleshoot your system and provide effective repair services, helping you and your family get back to comfort quickly. If you need heating repairs, don’t wait – give T.F. O’Brien a call at 516.488.1800 and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Don’t Let Your Boiler Be the Grinch This Holiday Season

woman wearing hat and covered in blanket is unhappy in chilly homeOnce the holidays arrive, our thoughts turn to good times with family and friends, both near and far. We look forward to twinkling lights, giving gifts, food, and celebrations. When we have loved ones gathered in our homes, the last thing we want to think about is our heating system failing. For many people with boiler heating systems in their homes, the boiler currently installed may have some years on it.

Boiler heating is the second most popular type of heating system in North America, following furnace heating. Unlike a furnace, that moves heated air throughout your home, a boiler system produces radiant heat by moving heated water throughout radiators in the home.

The average boiler lasts around 15 years with annual maintenance. But the older a boiler gets, the harder it must work to heat your home. And, the more likely it is that it will need boiler repairs. Don’t let your boiler ruin the festivities this holiday season – notice the signs that it may need repairs before the family starts gathering in your home. Below, we’ll share six of the main signs your boiler will give if it needs repairs, and how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

6 Ways to Tell If Your Boiler Needs Repair Services

To avoid a full breakdown, it’s important to see the signs that your boiler may be giving you that it needs repair. Here are a few of the ways your boiler may tell you that it’s time to call your HVAC professional:

  • If you notice water around your boiler or see a leak, you should call for repairs right away. A leak can often be remedied quickly by your HVAC technician, but if left unchecked it can lead to damage to electrical components, flooding in your home, and water damage.
  • Low Water Pressure: Weak water pressure can indicate a boiler issue, such as a leak or problems in the boiler’s expansion tank. If pressure drops below the minimum level, your boiler’s safety cutoff switch will automatically turn your boiler off.
  • Radiators Not Heating: If your radiators are not heating properly, there could be air in your system due to a range of possible causes, including sludge buildup. Your technician may need to provide a full system bleed and chemical flushing.
  • Strange Noises: Usually, boilers operate relatively quietly. So if you notice an unusual noise coming from your boiler, you should call to have it checked out as soon as possible. Gurgling noises can indicate air in your system while clanking and banging sounds can mean combustion problems.
  • Pilot Light Issues: If your boiler’s pilot light isn’t staying lit, it could be the result of a dirty or damaged thermocouple. The thermocouple is an automatic safety shutoff device that keeps the gas valve from opening if the pilot light goes out.
  • Unusual Odors: If your boiler has not been working as it should and you notice an unusual, foul smell, this should not be ignored. That’s because it could be the result of a carbon monoxide leak. While CO doesn’t have an odor itself, the odor comes from your boiler’s failure to burn properly. A carbon monoxide leak can quickly lead to illness and can even be fatal, so if you suspect a leak, leave your home immediately and call 911 for assistance.

Of course, there are other signs such as increased energy use, higher utility bills, and inadequate heating in general. Even if you’re not entirely sure if your boiler needs repair, it’s best to err on the side of caution and call your HVAC contractor.

T.F. O’Brien offers complete boiler services to meet your needs.

Don’t let a costly boiler breakdown be your Grinch this holiday season – you’ll stay toasty warm in your home all winter long when you choose T.F. O’Brien to provide you with complete boiler services. Whether you need boiler maintenance, repair, or installation, we can help. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we’ll be more than happy to help you with your boiler needs.