What began in a modest storefront in Richmond Hill, Queens, in 1934 has grown into one of Long Island’s most trusted names in heating and cooling. T.F. O’Brien Cooling & Heating is celebrating over 90 years in business — a milestone built on three generations of family, hard work, and an unwavering dedication to the community they serve.
The company’s story began with founder Thomas Francis O’Brien, whose initials still grace the company name. Back then, the business focused on appliance repair and commercial refrigeration. Even in those early years, O’Brien set a standard that would shape the company for generations: treat customers like family, and always keep learning.
By the 1950s, T.F. O’Brien had expanded into air conditioning, and a decade later, they added heating services to meet the changing needs of their community. In 1967, the company first moved to New Hyde Park, and 12 years ago, they expanded into their current location there. This past year, T.F. O’Brien added an additional New Hyde Park location to accommodate their installation department where they continue to serve both residential and commercial customers across Long Island.
President Kerry O’Brien, Thomas’s grandson, grew up surrounded by the family trade. As a child, he spent hours at the shop, watching technicians at work and absorbing lessons from his father and grandfather. One of those lessons still hangs (quite literally) in his office today: his grandfather’s suit jacket, a daily reminder of where it all began.
“Growing up, I learned early on that the one constant is change,” Kerry O’Brien said. “That’s something my father and grandfather always believed. Adapting to change while staying true to our values is what’s kept us strong for 90 years.”
That spirit of adaptability is alive and well today. Kerry’s son, Patrick O’Brien, now serves as Sales Manager, marking the fourth generation to join the family business. Together with part-owners Chris and Thomas O’Brien Jr., the O’Brien family continues to lead the company into the future while honoring its roots.
Beyond their family legacy, T.F. O’Brien is deeply committed to their team and community. They provide ongoing training and education to keep employees up-to-date with evolving industry standards, ensuring not just technical excellence, but long-term career growth. The company’s dedication to quality and service has earned them numerous honors, including Angi Super Service Provider recognition, an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and three Carrier President’s Awards. They’re also proud members and sponsors of local organizations like the Huntington and New Hyde Park Chambers of Commerce, the Townwide Fund of Huntington, and the Master Plumbers Council of New York City.
For Kerry O’Brien, though, the real success story is the people: the loyal customers, dedicated staff, and community that have supported T.F. O’Brien for nearly a century.
“We’ve seen generations of Long Islanders grow up alongside us,” he said. “It’s not just about heating and cooling homes; it’s about keeping our community comfortable, connected, and cared for.”
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