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120 Liberty Street
(848) 305-9945

What Comprehensive Heating Maintenance Includes

Our senior technicians perform thorough multi-point inspections that go far beyond basic filter changes. We begin by examining your thermostat calibration and programming to ensure accurate temperature control and efficient cycling. Next, we inspect and clean all burner assemblies, checking for proper flame patterns and adjusting gas pressure as needed. Heat exchangers receive careful visual inspection for cracks or corrosion that could lead to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. We test all safety controls, including limit switches and flame sensors, replacing components showing signs of wear before they fail unexpectedly.

Electrical components demand special attention during maintenance visits. We tighten all electrical connections, measure voltage and amperage on motors, and inspect contactors for pitting or damage. Blower assemblies are cleaned and lubricated, with belt tension adjusted on older systems. Our technicians check refrigerant levels in heat pump systems, test defrost cycles, and verify proper airflow across indoor coils. We also examine ventilation systems, ensuring proper draft and checking flue pipes for obstructions or deterioration that could compromise safety.

Optimal Maintenance Scheduling and Frequency

Timing your heating maintenance strategically maximizes both system reliability and cost-effectiveness. We recommend scheduling annual maintenance in early fall, before heating season begins in earnest. This timing allows us to identify and address potential issues before you need your heating system operating at full capacity. For heat pump systems providing both heating and cooling, twice-yearly maintenance ensures year-round efficiency and reliability. Commercial properties and homes with pets or allergy sufferers often benefit from more frequent filter changes and system checks.

Our 24/7 emergency services remain available throughout the year, but proactive maintenance dramatically reduces the likelihood of unexpected failures. Systems over ten years old particularly benefit from pre-season tune-ups, as aging components become more susceptible to failure under heavy use. We track maintenance history for each customer, sending reminders when service is due and noting any developing trends that might indicate upcoming replacement needs.

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Key Benefits of Professional Heating Maintenance

  • Energy Savings: Clean, properly adjusted systems use 15-25% less energy than neglected units
  • Extended Equipment Life: Regular maintenance can double your system’s operational lifespan
  • Improved Air Quality: Clean filters and components reduce airborne particles and allergens
  • Warranty Protection: Most manufacturers require annual maintenance to maintain warranty coverage
  • Enhanced Safety: Professional inspections identify potential carbon monoxide risks and electrical hazards

Recognizing Signs Your System Needs Immediate Attention

Between scheduled maintenance visits, certain warning signs indicate your heating system requires professional evaluation. Unusual noises like banging, squealing, or rattling often signal mechanical problems developing within your furnace or heat pump. Frequent cycling on and off suggests thermostat issues or improper system sizing. Uneven heating throughout your home might indicate blocked vents, failing blower motors, or deteriorating ductwork requiring attention.

Rising energy bills despite consistent usage patterns typically mean your system is working harder to maintain desired temperatures. Yellow or flickering furnace flames instead of steady blue flames indicate incomplete combustion requiring immediate adjustment. Persistent odors, especially burning smells or rotten egg scents, demand immediate professional investigation for safety reasons. First Choice Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical offers financing options to help manage unexpected repair costs while maintaining your family’s comfort and safety throughout heating season.

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What They're Saying
Customer Reviews

5 Stars! We had a fantastic experience with First Choice. They installed two new HVAC systems for our business, and the team of Jeff, Ethan, and Joey was professional, efficient, and great to work with. Highly recommend!

Eddie M

We had Alex Dicrosta of First Choice come check our furnace today because it was leaking water when the AC was on. Alex diagnosed the issue quickly that it was a clogged pipe going from the water pump. He unclogged the pipe and confirmed that was the cause of the leak. Alex is extreme knowledgeable, friendly, and customer focused. He even checked the rest of the unit to make sure everything was working properly before he left. I will definitely request Alex the next time I need AC or heating service from First Choice.

Rich R

I had my annual maintenance today for my boiler and mini splits and couldn’t be happier with the service. Angel Garcia from First Choice Plumbing and HVAC went above and beyond. He was patient when I asked questions, very thorough, and took great care of everything like it was his own home. You can tell he truly loves what he does, and that the company really values its people. Highly recommend Angel and the First Choice team!

Chris R

First Choice came out today for my annual A/C maintenance, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the experience. Lenny Z was the technician — he was professional, courteous, and right on time. He made sure everything was running efficiently before he left. I highly recommend First Choice for anyone looking for reliable, top-notch service for their HVAC !

Howard Z

Angel came for a complimentary service after a new HVAC was installed this past winter. Angel was extremely helpful and informative. Was at the house for about an hour showing me different ways to have better airflow and also switched out filters. Would highly recommend !!

Joseph G

First Choice heating & cooling sent a very professional repair man named Angel who did an amazing job doing some electrical work to get my A/C unit working late on a Friday evening. He responded within hours and got the A/C up and running on this super hot day. Thank you Angel from First Choice in Metuchen, NJ! I highly recommend them!

Doris Cruz

We had 2 new hvac systems and a hot water heater replaced and WOW cannot say enough good things about all 4 guys that did the work. Efficient, caring, knowledgeable and all professional. We highly recommend First Choice, from our initial meeting with Ryan to the completion of the installation. Thank you for a perfect job!

Debbie D

I have depended upon First Choice for several years to address all my heating and cooling needs and have never been disappointed
Techs have always been knowledgeable and technically competent, in addition to which
courteous and respectful.
I would prefer my heating and cooling needs to be minor but at least I am comforted by knowing this company is always prepared to handle any issue which this household may face, thus I highly recommend First Choice

John M

Angel Garcia is the best!!! First Choice has just been great about upgrading my systems. They are neat and their work is impeccable and very pretty. I have used them since 1987 and have no complaints. Angel has been wonderful about making sure we have what we need. He feels like my personal consultant, but all the folks there are so helpful and responsive. Highly highly recommend them.

Barbara M

Dave and Eli from First Choice did an excellent job installing a toilet in my home. They arrived on time, were professional and clean, and completed the work quickly with top-quality results. Highly recommend!

Gvido T

I had a leaking toilet and gave First Choice a call. They responded quickly and sent someone out the same day. Jordan was very professional, diagnosed the problem right away, and fixed it without any hassle. The leak is gone, and everything works perfectly now. Highly recommend!

Joan

The First Choice techs are always great but Angel was particularly outstanding today. He did a very thorough maintenance and cleaning check. He was super patient with all of my questions and really helped us plan out preventative maintenance on our system. Highly recommend Angel and First Choice!

Cassandra S

Had a plumbing, piece of water brass pipe replaced under deck and valve installed. Eli was great in giving few different options and suggestions for best method. I was very
happy with same day service and work.

Rupal B

A service person named Angel quickly diagnosed and fixed the issue with my AC. He was very professional. I was so happy with the experience that I signed up for a yearly maintenance contract. I found First Choice based on good local Facebook feedback and I am so glad that I did!

Ann Marie Regan