Do you need backup heat with geothermal?

• <div><p>If a geothermal heat pump is installed correctly, then you shouldn’t have to worry about having a backup heat source such as a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/furnace-and-heating-basics.htm">furnace</a> or oil boiler. However, there are geothermal systems installed that include a backup in case the heat pump fails due to extreme cold. This is simply a backup heat pump you’ll likely never need and not an alternative heat source.</p></div>

How often do I need to service my HVAC system?

• <div><p>You need to service an HVAC system about twice per year, with a service including an inspection and basic maintenance. It’s best to schedule maintenance in the spring (after the furnace has been running and before the AC kicks on) and in the fall (after the AC worked hard all summer and before winter’s first chill arrives). </p><p>Regular HVAC services will keep the system working as efficiently as possible, saving you money on utilities and larger repairs. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/ac-service-cost.htm">HVAC maintenance costs</a> around $250 per visit, while bigger repairs from forgotten upkeep could cost thousands.</p></div>

Get matched with top heating oil pros in Dunkirk, MD

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 3 pros

TRUSTED BY DUNKIRK, MD HOMEOWNERS

4.4
Average homeowner rating
204
Verified heating oil services reviews

Verified Reviews for Heating Oil Service pros in Dunkirk, MD

*The Angi rating for Heating Oil Service companies in Dunkirk, MD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Heating Oil Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Heating Oil Service companies in Dunkirk, MD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Heating Oil Service needs.

Last update on October 16, 2025

Reviewed in March 2015
I have used Southern Maryland Oil (SMO) since November 2013 for heating oil delivery. I spent $2341.76 for oil during the winter of 2013-2014. Since the Oil Furnace was my only source of heat, I decided to get estimates for a Heat Pump installation to cut back on oil use. I went with SMO due...
SMO
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2014
Routine oil change
Lee's Auto Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2013
Work was performed fine. Tried to upsell additional services (oil to gas heating conversion for: $12,000+; regular maintenance program.) Felt like a sales pitch, not a friendly plumber call.
Titan Plumbing & Heating
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2012
Was warned of problems that did not exist to try to sell me a new heat pump.
Krafft Service Corp
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2012
I highly recommend Rowan Heating and Air Conditioning to anyone in need of these services.
Rowan Heating & Air Conditioning Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2007
I've used the shop for oil changes and tune-ups. this is a convenient Logan Circle location. They provided a good quote on a minivan windshield that morning so I had them do the work then and there.
A Y T AUTO SERVICE
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2006
We originally contracted D.J. Cross just to clean our fireplace and oil heater chimneys but they discovered that the Terra Cotta tile lining the flue for the oil heather had broken away and nearly blocked the entire flue. They told us it would not be safe to turn the oil heater back on because...
D J Cross Inc Chim Chimney Sweeps
Request a quote

Find Heating oil pros in Dunkirk

F.H. Furr Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

F.H. Furr Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

Customers say: Super punctual

204 local quotes requested

44 years of experience

Whether you need a repair, preventive maintenance, or replacement, we are your plumbing, heating, and air conditioning service provider in the northern Virginia and surrounding areas. We invite you to give us a call!

"Nice, reliable, and responded immediately."

Ethan Q on January 2025

"Nice, reliable, and responded immediately."

Ethan Q on January 2025

HPC Services

HPC Services

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

387 local quotes requested

No call out fee! Call today for your free quote! 15% Military and Veterans discount! $50 Water Heater Tune Up! $50 AC Tune Up! HPC Services is a proud Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business brining a fresh take on HVAC and plumbing to Maryland. Our technicians are trained to service, repair, and maintain your systems. HPC Services offers HVAC servicing and repair, HVAC replacement, new HVAC installations, ductwork, duct and vent cleaning, plumbing services and pipe repairs, main drain line snaking, line snaking, drain cleaning, clog removal and more! Financing available!

"Brandon identified and isolated the water leak immediately. His expertise and speed were unmatched."

Ashley S on February 2025

"Brandon identified and isolated the water leak immediately. His expertise and speed were unmatched."

Ashley S on February 2025

GAC Services

GAC Services

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

659 local quotes requested

GAC Services is a residential cooling, heating, and electrical contractor setting new standards in the Maryland HVAC and electric market. Since 1970, we’ve developed a strong reputation for providing the Montgomery County and Frederick County areas with reliable cooling and heating services. In 2014, we expanded our service offerings to include electrical services—allowing us to offer our customers the same great service in a new area of business. Additional DBA: Gaithersburg Heating & Cooling

"Highly professional, knowledgeable and well behaved technician. Prices offered were good too. I definitely recommend the company."

Deepak K on February 2025

"Highly professional, knowledgeable and well behaved technician. Prices offered were good too. I definitely recommend the company."

Deepak K on February 2025

JDL HVAC & Plumbing Services

JDL HVAC & Plumbing Services

Customers say: Super punctual

126 local quotes requested

13 years of experience

JDL HVAC & Plumbing Services LLC offers a wide range of services to meet your HVAC & Plumbing needs. With offices in both Maryland & Virginia, we serve both residential and commercial clients and specialize in offering a variety of money-saving solutions. Combined with our use of the highest quality parts and equipment and our dedication to delivering exceptional service, we have become known as the HVAC & Plumbing contractor of choice in the DMV area! The mission of JDL is to provide honest, reliable service that stands head and shoulders above the rest. We continually strive to exceed expectations by ensuring that each client receives the very best service from our friendly and knowledgeable HVAC/Plumbing service technicians. No matter what you need you can rely on JDL to provide an unparalleled knowledge, experience and expertise!

"They did a good job"

Richard T on June 2024

"They did a good job"

Richard T on June 2024

Cyprus Air Heating, Cooling and Fireplaces

Cyprus Air Heating, Cooling and Fireplaces

Customers say: Quality work

24 local quotes requested

58 years of experience

FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES | GET A FREE AIR CONDITIONER Cyprus Air Heating & Cooling is your single resource for all your home comfort needs, from tailoring your ideal comfort system to installation, service and beyond. Cyprus Air installs and repairs a variety of Heating & Cooling equipment. With over 56 years of experience in the business, we also offer other home improvement and indoor comfort services such as Gas Fireplaces & Gas logs, and Duct Cleaning. With so many years of design, and installations in Northern Virginia, DC and Maryland, Cyprus Air offers its service oriented expertise and reliability to ensure the high quality standards that architects, engineers, and homeowners have come to rely on from one of the industry leaders.

"I called to get an inspection done on my AC unit and was quoted $90 for the inspection plus $120 an hr for ADDITIONAL hrs. I ASKED when do I know when the “additional hrs start”, He stated that the tech would let me know once the inspection was done and then at that time he would let me know if there was work that needed to be fixed or if there was nothing then the service would end and I would only have to pay the $90. They charged me $210 for the inspection. I called and requested that we both listen to the call (Because all calls are recorded) They played the call, heard what the rep said and then stated they would get back to me. When I finally reached them again (they never called me back), they stated I would not get a refund, then replayed the call cutting out the part when the rep stated clearly that the service was only $90. They not only GASLIGHTED me, but they altered the recording. $120 may not matter to most but it sure matters to me."

Kay H on June 2025

"I called to get an inspection done on my AC unit and was quoted $90 for the inspection plus $120 an hr for ADDITIONAL hrs. I ASKED when do I know when the “additional hrs start”, He stated that the tech would let me know once the inspection was done and then at that time he would let me know if there was work that needed to be fixed or if there was nothing then the service would end and I would only have to pay the $90. They charged me $210 for the inspection. I called and requested that we both listen to the call (Because all calls are recorded) They played the call, heard what the rep said and then stated they would get back to me. When I finally reached them again (they never called me back), they stated I would not get a refund, then replayed the call cutting out the part when the rep stated clearly that the service was only $90. They not only GASLIGHTED me, but they altered the recording. $120 may not matter to most but it sure matters to me."

Kay H on June 2025

Petro Home Services

Petro Home Services

Customers say: True professional

621 local quotes requested

122 years of experience

With over 100 years experience, we know how to keep you comfortable, safe and help you save on energy costs. Our local 24/7 customer service and support means automatic heating oil deliveries and our service response is always fast. We never run out of heating oil plus our pricing and payment plans are designed to help you manage your costs all year round. Experience the Petro difference today!

"Worst service I’ve ever have experienced. They wanted to sell me the product, never told me that there was an early termination fee and another penalty for an initial offer they gave me. Had double charges every month, once for the oil they provided (which they never told me they were going to provide before coming. They just came without my knowledge and then I find a high amount bill) and another for an “automatic payment” for 500 that they never could explain. The didn’t even fix this issue and it kept happening every month even after I cancelled the service. Then having to call them is a hastié for the refund of the 500. Stay away of this company"

Axel R on January 2023

"Worst service I’ve ever have experienced. They wanted to sell me the product, never told me that there was an early termination fee and another penalty for an initial offer they gave me. Had double charges every month, once for the oil they provided (which they never told me they were going to provide before coming. They just came without my knowledge and then I find a high amount bill) and another for an “automatic payment” for 500 that they never could explain. The didn’t even fix this issue and it kept happening every month even after I cancelled the service. Then having to call them is a hastié for the refund of the 500. Stay away of this company"

Axel R on January 2023

Fixed Right & Guaranteed, LLC

2003 E CHANEYVILLE RD

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Fixed Right & Guaranteed, LLC

2003 E CHANEYVILLE RD

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

10 local quotes requested

20 years of experience

At Fixed Right & Guaranteed, we’re more than just an HVAC company—we’re a local, family-owned business committed to providing exceptional service and building a positive, supportive team culture. Since our founding in 2009, we’ve focused on creating a workplace where our team thrives, earning recognition as Service Nation Contractor of the Year, US & Canada Eastern Region. Our team of Super Techs is expertly coached to go above and beyond, no matter the job. Our mission: We create WOW experiences and exceed the expectations of our clients, our community, our team, and our families.

"Technician showed up on time, was professional, clearly new what he was doing, gave a fair price and didn't sell us things we didn't need. They did a great job!"

Zach S on September 2025

"Technician showed up on time, was professional, clearly new what he was doing, gave a fair price and didn't sell us things we didn't need. They did a great job!"

Zach S on September 2025

Any time Heating and cooling

4713 Pard Rd

No reviews yet

Any time Heating and cooling

4713 Pard Rd

No reviews yet

19 years of experience

Hello, My name is Jesse Dent, the owner of anytyme heating and A/C. We have been in business since 2006! I have been working on heat system for 28yrs.. It is a trade I LOVE doing. My team is highly trained to give the best customer service before anything!

ALLIGATOR HVAC & HOME IMPROVEMENT

200

5.00(

)

ALLIGATOR HVAC & HOME IMPROVEMENT

200

5.00(

)

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Our mission is to be a provider that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime after you see our quality work. As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. We won't leave until the job is done right! Call or click to schedule an estimate today!

"It went very good. it is not too expensive. The service was pretty good. They were professional and on time."

Surinder S on September 2021

"It went very good. it is not too expensive. The service was pretty good. They were professional and on time."

Surinder S on September 2021

STUMPS HVAC

39520 Jarrell Dr

5.00(

)

STUMPS HVAC

39520 Jarrell Dr

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Stumps HVAC LLC is your local Heating and A/C company known for Dependability, Honesty, and Quality. As a new small business we recognize our customers satisfaction is the most important thing to further our success. For any residential/commercial Heating and A/C replacements, service, or repairs give us a call.

"Brandon Stump runs his own small business, and we experienced the advantages of that. He did the estimate, then he and helpers did the work. He gave us a detailed evaluation of the old system, and explained what needed to be removed. So there were no misunderstandings. He is clearly knowledgeable of the industry. He provided clear details of what could be done and gave us three alterative estimates. Our old house offered some challenges. When there were difficulties getting to the under-the-house crawl space wiring, then in removing attic aged equipment, he worked until the problems were solved. That took extra labor and I offered to pay more, but he was not going to charge more than the estimate he gave. I thought that to be very generous. Also on those hot days, he immediately brought in a window air conditioner to tide us over while the whole-house AC had to be shut off. That was great! In contrast the man giving the estimate from the larger company did not really look at our system, offered only one option that he suggested, and was not offering to remove old equipment that was in the attic area or the outside oil tank. Stumps gave us fast, honest, reliable and thoughtful service. We will continue to have them service our new system. I highly recommend them."

Michael K on August 2019

"Brandon Stump runs his own small business, and we experienced the advantages of that. He did the estimate, then he and helpers did the work. He gave us a detailed evaluation of the old system, and explained what needed to be removed. So there were no misunderstandings. He is clearly knowledgeable of the industry. He provided clear details of what could be done and gave us three alterative estimates. Our old house offered some challenges. When there were difficulties getting to the under-the-house crawl space wiring, then in removing attic aged equipment, he worked until the problems were solved. That took extra labor and I offered to pay more, but he was not going to charge more than the estimate he gave. I thought that to be very generous. Also on those hot days, he immediately brought in a window air conditioner to tide us over while the whole-house AC had to be shut off. That was great! In contrast the man giving the estimate from the larger company did not really look at our system, offered only one option that he suggested, and was not offering to remove old equipment that was in the attic area or the outside oil tank. Stumps gave us fast, honest, reliable and thoughtful service. We will continue to have them service our new system. I highly recommend them."

Michael K on August 2019

Showing 1-10 of 40

Heating Oil questions, answered by experts

If a geothermal heat pump is installed correctly, then you shouldn’t have to worry about having a backup heat source such as a furnace or oil boiler. However, there are geothermal systems installed that include a backup in case the heat pump fails due to extreme cold. This is simply a backup heat pump you’ll likely never need and not an alternative heat source.

For most systems, an annual HVAC system service is more than enough. Some homeowners prefer a twice-a-year visit to ensure the system is ready for the upcoming summer and winter seasons. If you need to call an HVAC pro more often than this, it may be time to check if your system is getting old enough for a replacement.

There are several common types of HVAC systems that you may have, including split systems, hybrid HVAC, duct-free systems, packaged heating and air, geothermal heating, or even portable units for heating or cooling. If you aren’t sure which type is in your home or are looking to install something different, you should consult an HVAC pro to determine which option is right for your heating and cooling needs.

Leaks, poor airflow, reduced efficiency, and loop blockages are common problems requiring service.

You need to service an HVAC system about twice per year, with a service including an inspection and basic maintenance. It’s best to schedule maintenance in the spring (after the furnace has been running and before the AC kicks on) and in the fall (after the AC worked hard all summer and before winter’s first chill arrives).

Regular HVAC services will keep the system working as efficiently as possible, saving you money on utilities and larger repairs. HVAC maintenance costs around $250 per visit, while bigger repairs from forgotten upkeep could cost thousands.

By submitting this question, I acknowledge and agree that Angi may publicly display my name, city, state, and question on the website for professionals and others to see.

The homeowners guide to home care is here

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Breyden Kellam
•
Oct 15, 2025Oct 15, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Move a 4-Bedroom House Long-Distance? [2025 Data]
The cost to move a 4-bedroom house depends on home size, distance, and whether you hire movers. Learn the necessary costs before moving long distance.
Alison Kasch
•
Jun 17, 2025Jun 17, 2025
How Much Do Movers Cost? [2025 Data]
How much do movers cost? The answer varies based on a lot of factors, but we’ve laid them all out for you here. Plan your budget with our cost guide.
Nick P. Cellucci
•
Oct 15, 2025Oct 15, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Trailer? [2025 Data]
The cost to rent a trailer depends on its size and type and how far you’re traveling with it. This guide compares trailer options and their prices.
Alison Kasch
•
Sep 23, 2025Sep 23, 2025
The Ultimate Moving Supplies List
Moving soon? Use this comprehensive checklist to stay organized.
Melissa Graham
•
Jun 18, 2025Jun 18, 2025
How Big of a Moving Truck Do I Need?
If you’re wondering what size moving truck to reserve, the answer lies in the size of your home and the amount of items. Use our guide to learn more.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Jun 18, 2025Jun 18, 2025
How to Move Out of State: A Complete Guide
Whether you’re moving out of state for the first time or the fifth, it can be overwhelming. And no matter if you hire a moving company or handle it all yourself, these six tips will make your long-distance move to a new state easy and exciting.