FAQs

Welcome to Cotti-Johnson’s FAQs Section – Your Ultimate Destination for HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing Solutions. Here, we’ve compiled answers to commonly asked questions to swiftly equip you with comprehensive insights into our services, ensuring the seamless maintenance of comfort and functionality for your home or business.

Recognizing the significance of a comfortable and efficient living or working environment, we’ve curated an extensive list of FAQs to facilitate your navigation through our services, promptly addressing your needs with precision.

Do we serve your area? Look no further! We proudly offer our services throughout Taunton and neighboring regions. Explore our service areas page to confirm coverage for your property!

You’re in luck! Our team is available 24/7 to address your urgent needs and assess the severity of your system issue.

Look no further! Cotti-Johnson is continuously accepting applications from individuals interested in joining our dynamic team. Visit our careers page to explore current openings and learn more about our company culture.

While we strive for efficiency and timeliness in every job, service duration can vary depending on the issue and proximity to our location. Contact us to schedule service or emergency assistance, and our team will provide an estimate of when you can expect a technician.

With decades of experience, unmatched guarantees, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction, it’s no wonder countless property owners in Taunton and surrounding areas trust us with their homes and businesses. Visit our “Why Cotti-Johnson” page to discover more about what sets us apart.

A burning plastic smell emanating from your heater often indicates an issue with overheating or melting components inside the unit. Several common causes for this smell include:

  • Melted Electrical Components: Faulty wiring or an overloaded motor can cause electrical parts to melt, producing a burning odor.
  • Foreign Objects: Items such as plastic toys or debris may accidentally fall into the vents or return ducts, causing the plastic to heat up and emit a burning smell.
  • Dust Buildup: When heaters are not used for extended periods, dust can accumulate on the heating elements. When the heater is turned on, this dust can burn off, producing an unusual odor.

If you notice a persistent or strong burning smell, it is crucial to turn off the heater immediately and contact a professional for an inspection, as this situation could pose a fire hazard.

Modern furnaces prioritize safety in their design; however, there are rare instances where a furnace may catch fire or experience an explosion. Various factors can contribute to these incidents, including:

  • Gas leaks that can lead to explosions if ignited.
  • Cracked heat exchangers that allow flammable gases to escape into your home.
  • Electrical malfunctions can cause sparks or overheating.
  • Poor maintenance, like dirty burners or blocked vents, can create unsafe conditions.

Regular annual professional inspections and tune-ups are essential for minimizing the risk of fire or explosion. By ensuring that equipment and systems are maintained properly, these inspections help identify potential hazards before they become critical issues.

Low water pressure can arise from a variety of factors, each of which can affect the flow of water in your plumbing system. Understanding these issues can help you diagnose and potentially resolve the problem.

  • Clogged pipes due to mineral buildup or corrosion.
  • Leaking pipes divert water away from fixtures.
  • Partially closed main shutoff valve or a failing pressure-reducing valve.
  • Municipal supply issues, especially if the whole neighborhood is affected.

If the problem is isolated to one fixture, it may be a clogged aerator. But if it’s house-wide, it’s best to call a plumber to diagnose the source.

If you’ve noticed your hot water running out too quickly, there could be several underlying issues. Common reasons include:

  • Sediment buildup in the tank reduces capacity and efficiency.
  • Broken dip tube, which mixes cold water with hot water too early.
  • Thermostat issues, where the heater fails to reach the correct temperature.
  • Undersized water heater for your household’s needs.

If your hot water doesn’t last long or recovery time is slow, a plumber can assess whether a repair, flush, or upgrade is needed. And, if your water heater is undersized or your family has outgrown it, you might consider a tankless water heater.

Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face, and many wonder which method offers the best value for their money.

  • Plungers work well for minor clogs in toilets or sinks.
  • Drain snakes (manual or motorized) are effective for hair, grease, and buildup in pipes.
  • Hydro jetting is the most thorough method for clearing stubborn or recurring blockages, especially in main sewer lines—it uses high-pressure water to remove all debris and buildup.

Avoid using chemical cleaners frequently, and call a professional if clogs persist or affect multiple drains.

Most people never think about their breaker box, so they’re unsure how effective it is or if it needs to be replaced. Here’s how to know.

  • Frequent tripped breakers or breakers that won’t reset.
  • Flickering lights or unexplained power surges.
  • Burn marks, melted wires, or a burning smell near the panel.
  • Lack of available space for new circuits during upgrades.
  • Outdated panels, like Zinsco or Federal Pacific, have known safety issues.

If your panel is more than 25–30 years old, it’s worth having it inspected by an electrician.

For most homes, the HVAC filter should be changed every 1 to 3 months. Factors that can shorten this interval include:

  • Pets, which shed hair and produce dander in the air.
  • Allergies or asthma require cleaner air.
  • High usage, especially during peak summer or winter months.
  • Location, such as homes in areas with dust or pollution.

A dirty filter restricts airflow, lowers efficiency, and can even damage your system over time.

Cotti Johnson HVAC, Inc. is ready to help! Call 508-301-1831 for fast, local plumbing, electrical & HVAC services with trusted advice and guaranteed satisfaction.