A common question from homeowners with radiant heating is: “Who should I call when my system needs repair or maintenance—a plumber or an HVAC technician?” The answer isn’t always straightforward because radiant heating systems combine elements of both trades. Let’s break it down so you can make the right call when you need help with heating and plumbing services in Cedar Grove.
Understanding Radiant Heating Systems
Radiant heat is one of the most efficient and comfortable ways to warm your home. Instead of relying on forced air, like a traditional furnace, radiant systems use heated water that circulates through pipes beneath floors, inside walls, or within baseboard radiators. These systems provide even, consistent heat without the drafts or dryness associated with forced-air heating.
Because a radiant heating system involves both plumbing and HVAC components, knowing which professional to call depends on the issue at hand.
When You Need a Plumber
A plumber is the right choice when the problem involves the water flow and piping components of your radiant heating system. Here are some scenarios where you should call a plumber:
- Leaking Pipes or Manifolds – If you notice water pooling near your floors, walls, or radiators, you likely have a leak in the system that needs immediate attention.
- Air in the System – If parts of your radiant heating system are not warming up, air might be trapped in the pipes, preventing proper circulation. A plumber can bleed the system to restore full functionality.
- Circulator Pump Issues – The circulator pump is responsible for moving hot water through your system. If it fails, a plumber can diagnose and replace it.
- Low Water Pressure or Expansion Tank Problems – If the pressure gauge on your boiler is too low, it could be due to an issue with the expansion tank or pressure-reducing valve—both of which fall under a plumber’s expertise.
When You Need an HVAC Technician
An HVAC technician is the right choice for issues that involve the boiler, burners, and control systems. Here’s when you should call an HVAC pro:
- Boiler Won’t Fire Up – If your boiler isn’t producing heat, an HVAC technician will inspect the ignition system, gas supply, or electrical components.
- Strange Noises From the Boiler – Banging, whistling, or gurgling sounds often indicate a problem with scaling, sediment buildup, or overheating—issues an HVAC technician can address.
- Thermostat or Zoning Issues – If certain areas of your home aren’t heating properly or the system isn’t responding to temperature changes, an HVAC tech can troubleshoot the controls and zoning setup.
- Boiler Maintenance & Efficiency Checks – Regular maintenance, including burner cleaning, flue inspections, and efficiency tuning, is best handled by an HVAC technician.
When You Need a Contractor Who Does Both
Since radiant heating systems combine both plumbing and HVAC components, the best choice is to work with a contractor who specializes in both trades. This ensures that any issue—whether it’s a boiler malfunction, a leaking pipe, or a failing pump—can be addressed in one service call.
Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your radiant heating system running efficiently. An annual inspection can help prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your system is providing optimal comfort.
If you’re experiencing any issues with your radiant heating system, give us a call. As a team with expertise in both HVAC and plumbing, we can diagnose the problem quickly and provide a long-lasting solution—keeping your home warm and efficient all season long.
Contact MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc. today to schedule an appointment or ask any questions about heating and plumbing services in Cedar Grove, NJ!