24-Hour Emergency Heater Repair & Installation in Baltimore County
We tend to take the heating systems in our homes for granted until something goes wrong.
For more than 100 years, the professionals at Farnen & Dermer have been keeping Baltimore families warm and comfortable when their furnaces break down and need to be replaced. Known for their professional skill and friendly demeanor, a certified service technician will be dispatched to your home, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, bringing warmth back to your home in no time with your satisfaction as priority.
No one plans on having their heater quit working. Because heaters are used the most during cold weather months, your heater will likely need repairs and emergency service at the worst possible time of year. That's just Murphy's Law.
Regular system upgrades and annual maintenance can keep your heating system working for years to come. This preventive approach not only reduces unexpected breakdowns but also can enhance the system’s energy efficiency, potentially lowering your utility bills over time. Scheduled maintenance also extends the lifespan of your heating equipment, making it a worthwhile investment. When you do need a replacement, we've got you covered for that too.
"Extremely helpful and knowledgeable."
The team at Farnen & Dermer is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Their expertise helped me understand my boiler system and feel comfortable with it. They took the time to explain everything and walk me through checking my system. Definitely an asset to Farnen & Dermer!
Steve H.
"Fortunate to have contacted Farnen & Dermer."
My gas furnace (1987 vintage, rest in peace) died on a Saturday, November 20, 2021. Cold nights were forecasted. Called several HVAC emergency services with no luck until I reached Farnen & Dermer. Their HVAC tech arrived between 1-2 pm, communicated by text and phone. They deemed the unit unrepairable but offered a reasonable quote for a new gas and AC unit, which could be installed Monday/Tuesday. They also offered financing. After the furnace died again that evening, I checked their website and accepted the quote. Installation was scheduled for Monday morning, and their technicians arrived at 8:15, completing the job by 3:05 pm. Very fortunate to have contacted Farnen & Dermer.
Kevin S.
"Warm, kind, and skilled."
Farnen & Dermer excels in plumbing and HVAC services, including boilers and hot water radiator systems. The team is warm and kind, always an asset when home maintenance gets frustrating.
Heating Replacements & New Installations in Baltimore County
On average, 50 percent of a home’s energy costs are due to its heating and air conditioning systems. Even if your heater is older but working relatively well, you will likely be surprised by how much energy is required to keep your home comfortable during the winter.
Not only do many new heating systems come with federal tax credits and utility rebates, but their lower monthly energy usage results in significant utility savings.
Our technicians will examine your home for hot or cool zones, take account of the returns and vents, and make recommendations for high-efficiency heating systems that are customized to your home’s needs, family’s comfort level, and budget.
Our technicians are also trained in installing high-efficiency condensing furnaces. You may want to consider upgrading to high-efficiency furnace venting. High-efficiency systems often feature advanced technologies that not only enhance comfort but also lower operational noise, making your home a more pleasant place to live.
What Are the Benefits of HVAC Maintenance?
To keep your heating system or boiler functioning properly, it is important to have an annual heating check-up. Yearly maintenance before the winter months can help you identify and fix potential problems before you require emergency service or repair.
During your annual heating maintenance appointment, your certified service technician will:
Visually Inspect your heating system for signs of wear, leakage, or rust
Check the operational components of the heater including crankcase, air filtration system, blower, motor, and motor wheel
Inspect the unit’s wiring, electrical connections, and thermostat
Inspect any gas connections for leaks, taking note of the burner ignition, gas burners, and switches
Adjust the unit for maximum efficiency
Monitor carbon monoxide output
Regular maintenance is not just about preventing problems; it's about optimizing performance. When your heating system is running efficiently, it consumes less energy, which can save you money on your utility bills. Additionally, a well-maintained system has a longer operational life, providing comfort over many more winters.
Scheduled maintenance from your local experts at Farnen & Dermer ensures peace of mind as you rely on your heating system throughout the colder months. This proactive care helps in detecting minor issues before they become significant, potentially costly repairs, preserving both your comfort and your finances.
No matter what kind of issues have cropped up in your system, our Owings Mills heater service experts are here to help. Contact us at (410) 600-7964 or online today.
We Service Gas Furnaces, Heat Pumps, Oil Furnaces, & Boilers for Residents of Baltimore County
Heating a home is not a “one size fits all” business. Rather, it’s a matter of taking into account a home’s age, energy availability, and heating requirements, then making recommendations that will meet the customer’s budget, time constraints, and comfort level.
A home's heating system will fall into one of four categories:
Gas Furnaces: The most common of all heating systems, a gas furnace is a forced-air system. A thermostat in the room sends a low-voltage electrical signal to the furnace allowing it to open a valve and let natural gas into the system. The gas is then lit on fire and a blower fan turns on, forcing warm air into the duct system in the house.
Heat Pumps: Heat pumps are used not only to warm your home in the winter but also to cool your home in the summer. The heat pump uses electricity to circulate heat from outside the home into the home. Even during months that seem too cold for heat to be present outdoors, heat energy is able to be absorbed by the pump and transported into the home. As an added bonus, the system can be reversed during warm months transporting heat from inside the home to the outside. Best of all, since the system is entirely electric, there is no need for natural gas lines or additional energy consumption.
Oil Furnaces: Oil furnaces distribute heat in one of three ways – either by hot water run through a system along the home’s baseboards, steam through a home’s radiators, or warm air through vents. Regardless of how the warm air reaches the home’s occupants, oil furnaces work by mixing heating oil with air into a fine mist where it is then injected into the burner and lit on fire.
Boilers: While a gas furnace uses air to distribute heat throughout your home, a boiler uses water. Using small pipes along a baseboard, radiant flooring systems, or cast iron radiators, hot water boilers distribute heat by running hot water through pipes. Steam boilers, on the other hand, distribute steam through a series of pipes to the radiators within the home. Boilers use either gas, electricity, or oil to create the fire that heats the water in the system.
Choosing the right type of heating system for your home involves understanding the unique advantages and limitations of each type. Gas furnaces are favored for their rapid heating capability and fuel efficiency, while heat pumps are excellent for providing both heating and cooling in more temperate climates. Oil furnaces, although less efficient than gas systems, provide robust heating capabilities in extremely cold weather.
Boilers offer consistent, even heating and are typically quieter than other types of systems, making them ideal for homeowners looking for a serene environment. Regardless of your needs, our team is equipped to provide knowledgeable insights to ensure your home remains warm and comfortable no matter the season.
Understanding Energy Efficiency Ratings for Baltimore County Homes
In today's environmentally conscious world, energy efficiency is a top priority for homeowners in Owings Mills and beyond. Understanding energy efficiency ratings is crucial when selecting a heating system. The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating measures the efficiency of gas and oil furnaces. A higher AFUE means more energy is converted to heat, with minimal waste. Consumers should look for units with an AFUE of 90% or higher for greater efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
Aside from furnaces, heat pumps are rated using the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF), with modern units achieving ratings between 8 and 10. A higher HSPF indicates a more efficient heat pump. When considering long-term savings on energy bills and lowering your carbon footprint, choosing a high-efficiency system is a wise investment. Farnen & Dermer provides guidance in selecting units that meet both performance expectations and budgetary needs, ensuring optimal satisfaction and sustainability.
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 410-600-7964 today!
Can regular maintenance help prevent heating system breakdowns?
Yes, regular maintenance can help prevent heating system breakdowns. Annual inspections and tune-ups can identify and address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring your heating system operates efficiently and reliably throughout the season.
How long does a heating system repair usually take?
The duration of a heating system repair can vary depending on the nature and complexity of the problem. Simple repairs may be completed within a few hours, while more extensive repairs may take longer. Your heating repair technician will be able to give you a more accurate time estimate.
What should I do if my heating system stops working?
If your heating system stops working, check the thermostat settings, replace the batteries if needed, and check the circuit breaker. If these steps don't solve the issue, it's best to call a professional heating repair service for assistance.
Can I perform heating system repairs myself?
While there are some basic maintenance tasks you can do yourself, such as changing air filters, it is generally recommended to leave heating system repairs to professionals. DIY repairs can be dangerous and may void your warranty.
How often should I have my heating system inspected?
It is recommended to have your heating system inspected at least once a year, preferably before the start of the heating season, to ensure optimal performance and catch any potential issues early.
What are common signs that my heating system needs repair?
Common signs that your heating system needs repair include strange noises, uneven heating, frequent cycling on and off, and a sudden increase in energy bills.
