Expert Furnace Repair in Silver Spring, MD | AMS Air Conditioning & Heating
Call (240) 899-5777 for Fast Furnace Repair Service in Silver Spring, Maryland
Silver Spring’s diverse community deserves reliable heating service for every type of home. AMS Air Conditioning & Heating has been providing expert furnace repair throughout Silver Spring since 1995, serving apartments, condos, townhomes, and single-family homes across Downtown Silver Spring, Woodside Park, Blair, and surrounding neighborhoods. Our licensed technicians (License #18914) are available 24/7 to keep Silver Spring residents warm and comfortable.
Same-day service • Apartments, condos & homes • 30 years of experience • Licensed & insured
Why Silver Spring Residents Choose AMS for Furnace Repair
30 Years Serving Silver Spring’s Diverse Community
Since 1995, AMS has been Silver Spring’s trusted furnace repair provider. We understand this community’s unique mix of urban apartments, historic homes, modern condos, and family neighborhoods. Whether you’re in a high-rise near the Metro, a 1940s bungalow in Blair, or a townhome in Four Corners, we have the expertise to service your heating system.
We Service All Housing Types
Silver Spring’s housing diversity sets it apart—and so does our experience:
- Apartments & High-Rises – Individual unit furnaces and building HVAC systems in Downtown Silver Spring
- Condominiums – Furnace repair for condo owners and property management companies
- Townhomes – Service for attached homes in South Woodside, Long Branch, and throughout Silver Spring
- Single-Family Homes – Furnace repair for houses in Woodside Park, Woodmoor, and established neighborhoods
- Older Homes – Specialized service for 1940s-1960s properties with aging heating systems
- New Construction – High-efficiency system service in recently developed areas
Serving Both Homeowners and Renters
We work directly with homeowners, renters (with landlord approval), property managers, condo associations, and landlords. Our straightforward communication and transparent pricing make furnace repairs simple for everyone.
Licensed Maryland HVAC Technicians
All AMS furnicians hold Maryland HVAC licenses (License #18914) and EPA certifications. We’re fully bonded and insured, providing peace of mind whether we’re servicing your apartment, condo, or house.
Fast Response Throughout Silver Spring
Our proximity to Silver Spring from our Rockville headquarters means quick response times. Most repairs are completed the same day, minimizing your discomfort during cold weather.
24/7 Emergency Service
Heating emergencies happen at inconvenient times. We provide around-the-clock emergency furnace repair service throughout all Silver Spring neighborhoods.
Furnace Services for Silver Spring Properties
Gas Furnace Repair
Gas furnaces are common throughout Silver Spring, from newer high-efficiency models in downtown condos to older systems in established neighborhoods. Our gas furnace services include:
- Ignition System Repair – Hot surface ignitors, pilot lights, and electronic ignition systems
- Thermostat Problems – Repair and replacement for all thermostat types, including programmable and smart models
- Blower Motor Service – Repair of motors that circulate heated air throughout your space
- Heat Exchanger Inspection – Safety inspections to detect cracks or damage
- Gas Valve Repair – Service of valves controlling gas flow to burners
- Flame Sensor Cleaning – Cleaning sensors that detect proper combustion
- Pressure Switch Replacement – Repair of safety switches on high-efficiency furnaces
- Vent System Repair – Service of exhaust venting, especially important in older homes
Electric Furnace Repair
Electric furnaces are found in many Silver Spring apartments and townhomes. Common repairs include:
- Heating Element Replacement – Replacing failed electric heating coils
- Sequencer Repair – Fixing the components that activate heating elements in stages
- Circuit Breaker Issues – Diagnosing electrical problems causing system shutdowns
- Blower Assembly Service – Repair of fans distributing heated air
- Thermostat Wiring – Correcting connection problems between controls and furnace
- Overload Protection – Resetting and replacing safety devices
Furnace Repair for Apartments and Condos
Silver Spring’s many apartment buildings and condo complexes require specialized HVAC knowledge:
- Individual Unit Furnaces – Service for self-contained heating systems in apartments and condos
- Building System Coordination – Working with property management to minimize disruption
- Access Coordination – Flexible scheduling for occupied units
- Multi-Unit Buildings – Experience with shared mechanical rooms and building systems
- Condo Association Communication – Clear documentation for HOA records
Older Home Furnace Service
Many Silver Spring neighborhoods feature homes built in the 1940s-1970s with aging furnace systems:
- Vintage System Expertise – Service for older furnace models still in operation
- Replacement Parts – Sourcing components for discontinued systems when possible
- Honest Assessments – Clear guidance on repair vs. replacement for aging equipment
- Ductwork Evaluation – Inspection of older duct systems for leaks and inefficiency
- Upgrade Recommendations – Options for modernizing heating while respecting budgets
Common Furnace Problems in Silver Spring Properties
Furnace Won’t Turn On
Common in: All property types, especially during first cold snap
Typical Causes: Tripped circuit breaker, thermostat issues, failed ignition system, or locked safety switches.
Our Approach: We systematically test electrical supply, verify thermostat operation, inspect ignition components, and identify why your furnace won’t start. Most issues are diagnosed and resolved the same day.
Furnace Runs But Produces No Heat
Common in: Apartments and condos with electric furnaces, older homes with gas systems
Typical Causes: Failed heating elements (electric), extinguished pilot light (gas), dirty flame sensor, or malfunctioning gas valve.
Our Approach: For electric systems, we test heating elements and sequencers. For gas furnaces, we check pilot lights, clean flame sensors, and verify gas valve operation. Most no-heat problems are fixed within hours.
Uneven Heating in Multi-Level Homes
Common in: Townhomes and single-family homes in Woodside Park, Woodmoor, Blair
Typical Causes: Blocked vents, ductwork leaks, inadequate airflow, or single-zone thermostat controlling multiple levels.
Our Approach: We inspect ductwork, check airflow to all levels, verify vent operation, and assess whether your system adequately serves your home’s layout. Solutions range from duct sealing to zone system installation.
Furnace Makes Loud or Unusual Noises
Common in: Older Silver Spring homes, high-rise buildings
Noise Types & Causes:
- Banging/Booming – Delayed ignition in gas furnaces (common in older systems)
- Squealing – Worn blower motor bearings or belt issues
- Rattling – Loose panels, screws, or ductwork connections
- Humming – Electrical component problems or capacitor failure
- Whistling – Air leaks in ductwork or restricted airflow
Our Approach: We identify noise sources, tighten loose components, lubricate motors, replace worn parts, and restore quiet operation.
Furnace Cycles On and Off Frequently (Short Cycling)
Common in: Apartments, condos, and homes with dirty filters or oversized systems
Typical Causes: Clogged air filter, malfunctioning thermostat, flame sensor issues, or limit switch problems.
Our Approach: We replace filters, clean sensors, test thermostats, and check limit switches. Short cycling wastes energy and stresses your furnace, so addressing it quickly prevents bigger problems.
Carbon Monoxide Concerns
Common in: Older homes with aging gas furnaces
Warning Signs: CO detector alarms, yellow or flickering pilot light (should be blue), soot around furnace, or flu-like symptoms when furnace runs.
Our Approach: We take carbon monoxide seriously. Our inspection includes CO testing, heat exchanger examination, and vent system inspection. Safety always comes first.
Furnace Smells (Gas, Burning, Musty)
Common in: All property types, especially at season start
Smell Types:
- Dusty/Burning (at season start) – Normal dust burning off; should dissipate within hours
- Continuous Burning Smell – Possible electrical problem requiring immediate attention
- Gas/Rotten Egg Odor – Potential gas leak requiring emergency response
- Musty Smell – Mold in ductwork or wet filter
Our Approach: We identify odor sources and address safety concerns immediately. Some smells are normal; others indicate serious problems requiring prompt repair.
Thermostat Not Communicating with Furnace
Possible Causes: Dead batteries, loose wiring, failed thermostat, or control board issues.
Our Solution: We test thermostat operation, check and secure wiring connections, replace batteries, and diagnose communication issues between thermostat and furnace.
Emergency Furnace Repair Throughout Silver Spring
Winter heating failures create urgent situations, especially in apartments and homes without alternative heat sources. AMS provides 24/7 emergency service across all Silver Spring neighborhoods.
Call (240) 899-5777 immediately for:
- Complete heating failure during freezing temperatures
- Natural gas odors near furnace or in your home
- Carbon monoxide detector alarms
- Continuous burning smells from furnace
- Loud banging or mechanical failure sounds
- Smoke or visible fire near heating equipment
- Water pooling around furnace area
Our emergency technicians respond quickly with fully-equipped vehicles, ready to diagnose and repair your furnace to restore heat as fast as possible.
Furnace Maintenance Services
Regular maintenance prevents emergency breakdowns and extends furnace life. This is especially important in Silver Spring’s diverse housing stock, from aging systems in older neighborhoods to high-efficiency models in newer developments.
Comprehensive Furnace Tune-Up Includes:
- Complete heating system inspection
- Air filter replacement (including hard-to-find sizes)
- Burner cleaning and adjustment (gas furnaces)
- Blower motor inspection and lubrication
- Thermostat testing and calibration
- Electrical connection inspection and tightening
- Heat exchanger inspection for cracks (gas furnaces)
- Carbon monoxide testing (gas furnaces)
- Condensate drain cleaning (high-efficiency furnaces)
- Safety control testing
- Efficiency assessment and recommendations
Maintenance Benefits:
- Prevents up to 85% of furnace breakdowns
- Reduces energy costs by 15-30%
- Extends equipment lifespan
- Maintains warranty coverage
- Ensures safe operation
- Identifies small problems before they become expensive
Recommended Schedule: Annual maintenance before winter (September-November) prepares your furnace for Maryland’s heating season.
Furnace Replacement & Installation
When your furnace reaches the end of its serviceable life, AMS provides expert installation for all property types in Silver Spring.
Signs You Need Furnace Replacement:
- Furnace is 15-20+ years old
- Frequent repairs becoming costly
- Rising energy bills despite maintenance
- Uneven heating that can’t be resolved
- Furnace too small or large for your space
- Heat exchanger cracks (safety concern)
- Repair costs exceeding 50% of replacement value
Furnace Options for Silver Spring Properties:
For Apartments & Condos:
- Compact high-efficiency models fitting tight spaces
- Quiet operation for close-quarter living
- Systems meeting building codes and HOA requirements
For Townhomes:
- Right-sized systems for typical 1,200-2,000 sq ft layouts
- Multi-zone options for multi-level comfort
- Energy-efficient models reducing monthly costs
For Single-Family Homes:
- Variable-speed blowers for consistent comfort
- High-efficiency furnaces (up to 98.5% AFUE)
- Smart thermostat integration
- Zoning capabilities for larger homes
For Older Homes:
- Modern efficiency respecting existing ductwork
- Systems compatible with older electrical service
- Professional installation preserving home character
Frequently Asked Questions About Silver Spring Furnace Repair
Do you service furnaces in Silver Spring apartment buildings?
Yes. AMS provides furnace repair for individual apartment units throughout Silver Spring, including high-rise buildings in Downtown Silver Spring. We work directly with residents (with landlord approval), property managers, and building maintenance teams. We understand the unique requirements of multi-unit buildings including access coordination, noise considerations, and building code compliance.
Can you repair furnaces in older Silver Spring homes from the 1940s-1960s?
Absolutely. Many Silver Spring neighborhoods feature charming older homes with aging heating systems. We have extensive experience servicing vintage furnaces and can often source parts for older models. When parts aren’t available or repair isn’t economical, we provide honest assessments and recommend appropriate modern replacements that work with existing ductwork and electrical systems.
Do you work with condo associations and property managers?
Yes. AMS regularly works with Silver Spring condo associations, HOAs, and property management companies. We provide clear documentation for association records, can coordinate service across multiple units, and offer maintenance contracts for multi-unit properties. We understand the paperwork and communication requirements property managers need.
How quickly can you respond to furnace emergencies in Silver Spring?
We typically respond to Silver Spring emergency calls within 1-2 hours, depending on time of day and current service demand. Our proximity to Silver Spring from our Rockville headquarters means we can reach any Silver Spring neighborhood quickly. During extreme cold when heating failures are most critical, we prioritize emergency calls and extend our on-call coverage.
What's the average lifespan of a furnace in Silver Spring?
Furnaces in Silver Spring typically last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Gas furnaces average 15-18 years, while electric furnaces can reach 20-25 years. Actual lifespan depends on installation quality, annual maintenance, brand, and usage. Maryland’s moderate winters (compared to northern states) can help furnaces last longer, but lack of maintenance significantly shortens lifespan.
Do you offer same-day furnace repair in Silver Spring?
Yes. Most furnace repairs in Silver Spring are completed the same day you call. We stock common replacement parts on our service vehicles, allowing us to fix many issues on the first visit. For less common parts, we source them quickly and return to complete repairs, often within 24-48 hours. Same-day service is especially important for apartments and homes without backup heating.
Can you install smart thermostats with existing furnaces?
Yes. AMS installs and configures smart thermostats (Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell Home, etc.) with existing furnaces throughout Silver Spring. Smart thermostats can reduce heating costs by 10-20% through intelligent scheduling and remote control—particularly valuable for busy professionals and families. We ensure compatibility, handle wiring, and teach you how to use your new thermostat effectively.
What should I do if I'm renting and my furnace breaks?
If you’re a Silver Spring renter, first contact your landlord or property manager—they’re responsible for furnace repairs. However, if you can’t reach your landlord during a heating emergency, call AMS at (240) 899-5777. We can provide emergency service and bill your landlord directly (with their approval). Keep your landlord informed and document all communication about heating problems.
Why choose AMS instead of another Silver Spring HVAC company?
AMS offers several advantages: 30 years of experience serving Silver Spring’s diverse housing types, licensed and insured technicians, same-day service for most repairs, 24/7 emergency availability, transparent upfront pricing, experience with apartments/condos/homes, and comprehensive service from simple repairs to complete installations. We treat every customer with respect, whether you’re in a studio apartment or a large single-family home.
Can you help with furnaces that won't heat upper or lower levels?
Yes. Uneven heating between levels is common in Silver Spring townhomes and multi-level homes. Causes include ductwork problems, blocked vents, single-zone thermostats, or undersized furnaces. We diagnose the root cause through systematic testing, then provide solutions ranging from duct balancing to zone system installation. Many Silver Spring townhomes benefit from two-zone systems controlling upper and lower levels independently.
How often should I change my furnace filter?
Filter replacement frequency depends on filter type and your situation. Standard 1-inch filters should be changed monthly during heating season. Higher-quality pleated filters last 2-3 months. HEPA and media filters may last 6-12 months. Change filters more frequently if you have pets, allergies, or during renovation projects creating extra dust. Clogged filters are the #1 cause of furnace problems we see in Silver Spring.
Serving All Silver Spring Neighborhoods
AMS provides furnace repair throughout Silver Spring and surrounding areas:
📍Downtown Silver Spring
📍Woodside Park
📍Blair
📍South Four Corners
📍Woodmoor
📍Long Branch
📍South Woodside
📍Takoma Park
📍White Oak
Nearby Areas:
- Wheaton
- Kensington
- Takoma Park
- Langley Park
- Adelphi
- College Park
- Hillandale
- All of Montgomery County, MD
Schedule Your Silver Spring Furnace Repair Today
Don’t let furnace problems disrupt your comfort. Whether you’re in a Downtown Silver Spring apartment, a Woodside Park home, or anywhere in between, AMS Air Conditioning & Heating delivers the expert furnace repair service you need.
Call (240) 899-5777 now for:
- Same-day furnace repair service
- 24/7 emergency heating repairs
- Service for apartments, condos, townhomes & homes
- Licensed & insured technicians
- Upfront, transparent pricing
- All makes and models serviced
- 30 years of Silver Spring experience
AMS Air Conditioning & Heating
4811 Rim Rock Road
Rockville, MD 20853
Phone: (240) 899-5777
License: #18914
Serving Silver Spring homeowners and renters since 1995
Great, quick, effective service as well as a good person to work with when deciding on the new system for my house. I share AMS with everyone I know. They're cool people! 😉
Moshe is so easy to work with, came in at a MUCH lower price, and work was done quickly, and his team did a great job cleaning up after they were done.
Great service. Came quickly and got my AC working in no time. Pricing very reasonable as well.
AMS has saved us on multiple occasions. He is responsive, knows exactly what he is doing and each time has fixed our AC quickly and affordably. Call AMS. Simply the best.
Moshe has installed new systems and serviced systems for me. He is very professional and to the point. I would not use anyone else for HVAC work.
My system stopped working on one of those cold days. I called AMS and they came right away. Fixed the problem and the charge was very reasonable.
Quick response, quality work, reasonable prices. Just replaced our entire dated HVAC and did it on time and on budget.
AMS did a great job with my AC install last summer. Good communication, fair price, no nonsense, accommodating of my schedule, and quality work. Highly recommended.
Moshe has been my HVAC go-to person for 20 years for this old house. He is very skilled, knowledgeable, and reliable. Would never call anyone else.