Blogs from August, 2018

Why Your AC's Refrigerant Is More Important Than You May Realize

Your air conditioner cools down your house through the process called the refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle uses a cooling substance called refrigerant. It is the chemical blend that is responsible for producing the cold air that comes from your AC.

Without refrigerant, the temperature of the air that your AC produces would not change. The air will remain at room temperature, and your air conditioner will not have the ability to cool your home. It would be no different than using a fan.

If your AC isn’t adequately cooling your home, there is a possibility that your unit is experiencing refrigerant issues. Therefore, it is essential that you find out more about refrigerants.

Contact Townsend Energy to make sure that your air conditioning unit is working at optimum efficiency. Our team of professional HVAC technicians is NATE-certified and factory-trained. They can provide you with excellent HVAC services. We offer heating and cooling tune-ups, installations, repairs, and replacements. We guarantee that all our services are fast, reliable, and affordable. Call us today for a free estimate.

Air Conditioner Repair Danvers MA: The Importance Of Refrigerant

Contents

• 1 Air Conditioner Repair Danvers MA: The Importance Of Refrigerant
  • 1.1 How A Refrigerant Cools The Air
  • 1.2 Types Of Refrigerants
    • 1.2.1 R-12
    • 1.2.2 R-22
    • 1.2.3 R-410A
  • 1.3 The Importance Of Refrigerants
  • 1.4 Refrigerant Issues
  • 1.5 Conclusion

As mentioned above, your AC’s refrigerant is vital for it to cool your house down. In turn, your home remains comfortable, especially during hot summer days. This article will explore the role of refrigerants in your air conditioner. It will also cover how this coolant has changed the way we live.

How A Refrigerant Cools The Air

The refrigerant, in its gaseous state, is stored in copper coils. The copper coils and the refrigerant absorb the heat inside your home. As the coolant warms, it transforms into a liquid. The AC’s fans blow the refrigerant into the outside coils. The heat is then released outside. As the refrigerant cools down, it turns into a gas again, and it is pushed back to the indoor coils. The process then repeats.

Types Of Refrigerants

Refrigerants have had their place in air conditioning technology for a long time. However, the blend has been changed throughout the years because some variants contribute to the greenhouse effect. Below are the three refrigerants that were commonly used by AC manufacturers.

R-12

R-12 is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC). This chemical blend contains chlorine, fluorine, and carbon. It is a greenhouse gas that is ten thousand times more powerful than carbon dioxide. However, it also contributes to the depletion of the Earth’s ozone layer. The Montreal Protocol banned its use in 1995. It is now illegal to buy and sell R-12.

R-22

R-22 was used as a substitute for CFCs. It is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) that contains hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine, and carbon. Also, it is a greenhouse gas that is 1, 800 times more powerful than carbon dioxide. It is less potent than R-12 as an ozone-depleting substance. However, the Kyoto Protocol banned its use in 2010. It is currently in the process of a phase-out. R-22 will no longer be sold and used by 2020.

R-410A

This type of refrigerant is a hydrofluorocarbon. HFC contains hydrogen, fluorine, and carbon. It is a greenhouse gas that is two thousand times more powerful than carbon dioxide. However, it is less harmful to the environment because R-410A does not contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer. You can find this refrigerant in split-system air conditioners and modern central air conditioning systems.

The Importance Of Refrigerants

Air conditioning units use refrigerant to complete the cooling cycle. It makes our homes, office buildings, and cars more comfortable to be in. We rely on our ACs to keep us cool during the hot summer season.

Freezing and refrigeration technology also uses refrigerants. As you know, refrigerators and freezers keep our food fresh. It slows down the microorganisms that would otherwise spoil our food a lot faster.

Without the refrigerant, all these comforts are not possible. Overall, this substance has transformed the way we live.

Refrigerant Issues

When it concerns your AC, your air conditioner needs the right amount of refrigerant for it to provide adequate cooling. The refrigerant charge is the amount of refrigerant in your unit. Every unit has an ideal charge. A unit that receives proper maintenance will not lose any of its refrigerant charge during the cooling cycle. However, refrigerant leaks can happen.

Leaks, regardless of how small, can cause the loss of refrigerant. This loss can create a significant change in your home environment. Low refrigerant levels can cause inadequate cooling. Moreover, your AC becomes less efficient, resulting in high energy costs. Sometimes it can even lead to a broken unit where you think that your air conditioner is not turning on. You need to contact an HVAC professional immediately if you have a refrigerant leak. They can perform air conditioner troubleshooting to determine whether your unit leaks or not. This problem is not a DIY repair. Therefore, instead of searching for information on “how to fix an air conditioner that is not cooling”, it is best to find a reputable heating and cooling company in your area.

A NATE-certified HVAC contractor has the proper tools and knowledge to fix any refrigerant issues you have. They will be able to pinpoint your air conditioner’s problems and solutions.

Explore Our AC Repair Services

https://youtu.be/1MiQCBIx1mM?si=YaJOrqCupGZUCoOj

Conclusion

As previously discussed, refrigerant leaks can cause problems with your A/C’s functionality. It can cause discomfort and may cause your AC to malfunction. Therefore, a professional HVAC contractor needs to repair it as soon as possible.

When you are looking for “air conditioner repair near me,” do not hesitate to contact Townsend Energy. We offer a wide range of quality HVAC services, including heating and cooling repairs, tune-ups, installations, and more.

We have NATE-certified technicians on staff who can provide fast and reliable services at honest prices. All of our technicians are friendly, professional, and courteous. Call us today to get a free estimate.

Some of the areas we service include Beverly, Danvers, Middleton, and Wenham, these zip codes: 01915, 01923, 01949, 01984, as well as all surrounding areas in Essex County, Massachusetts.

Contact us now at (800) 888-2888 to find out more!

Why Your Air Conditioner Is Blowing Warm Air

Many of us take advantage of the summer heat to go on day trips with our family and friends. After all, spending a sun-filled day outdoors is fun. You can go to the beach. You can have a barbecue party by the lake or maybe take a refreshing dip in the pool. However, after spending an entire day out in the sun, it is always a relief to come back to your air-conditioned home.

As you walk in, you expect the cold air from the air conditioner to welcome you. However, when you notice that it’s even warmer inside your home than it is outside, you might want to check your AC.

When searching for “air conditioning repair near me,” make sure to contact Townsend Energy. We provide top-quality HVAC repair services, cooling system installations, tune-ups, and replacements. Our NATE-certified technicians are friendly and professional. They have the skills and experience to service your system correctly. By working with us, we will provide you with all of the available solutions so you can pick what works best for you and your budget. Call us today for a free estimate.

Top Reasons Your Air Conditioner Blowing Hot Air Danvers MA

Contents

• 1 Top Reasons Your Air Conditioner Blowing Hot Air Danvers MA
  • 1.1 Faulty Electrical Panel
  • 1.2 Thermostat Setting
  • 1.3 Compressor Problems
  • 1.4 Refrigerant Issues
  • 1.5 Dirty Outdoor Unit
  • 1.6 Conclusion

When your A/C is blowing hot air, you know that something is wrong with your unit. This article will explore the different issues your AC might have when you find yourself in this situation.

Faulty Electrical Panel

The first thing you need to check is if your unit is receiving power. You can do this by checking the electrical panel. There are many reasons why your circuit breaker might shut off. The most common one is because there is too much power demand and the circuit breaker becomes overloaded.

For a quick fix, see if the breaker tripped or if you have blown a fuse. For a tripped breaker, you merely need to turn the power back on. To do this, flip the switch completely off before switching it back on. If you have blown a fuse, however, it needs to be replaced.

If your circuit breaker continues shutting down after your A/C runs for a while, then you need to call a professional. An expert HVAC technician can tell you why this keeps happening.

Thermostat Setting

After you check your electrical panel and you find nothing wrong, check your thermostat next. Make sure that the set temperature is at least five degrees lower than the room temperature. Next, ensure that the thermostat is set to “cool.”

Lastly, if your A/C’s fan setting is set to “on,” change it back to “auto.” The “on” setting will cause your AC to blow air even if the air conditioner is not cooling the air. The “auto” setting will make sure that only cool, conditioned air blows inside your home.

The ‘auto’ setting is also more energy efficient than using the ‘on’ setting. Therefore, using the ‘auto’ setting is a great way to reduce your home cooling costs.

Compressor Problems

Another vital cooling component of your AC is the compressor. Your compressor helps your refrigerant in the cooling process. The coolant cannot absorb the heat from your home when your AC has a broken compressor. Consequently, it disrupts the refrigeration cycle, and the air conditioner cannot release cooled, conditioned air in your home.

Also, many air conditioning units have a capacitor that helps start the compressor. If the capacitor fails, then your compressor won’t start. Hence, your AC will only blow warm air. An expert will be able to tell if your capacitor is damaged. Consult with a professional HVAC technician to make sure that the replacement capacitor is the same as the old one.

Refrigerant Issues

The refrigerant is the substance that is used in your AC’s cooling cycle. The process happens when the coolant absorbs the heat in your home and releases it outside.

Your AC needs to have a full charge of refrigerant. Unfortunately, leaks can happen. Holes, regardless of how small, can cause the coolant to lose charge.

When your AC has a low refrigerant charge, your AC cannot efficiently cool your home. Contact a licensed technician to repair this. A professional has the proper tools and knowledge to deal with refrigerant leaks.

Dirty Outdoor Unit

Another likely culprit why your A/C is blowing warm air is due to an issue with your outdoor unit. The outdoor unit, commonly known as the condenser, is where heat is released. The condenser has a cooling fan that releases the heat absorbed from inside your home to the air outside.

If dust and other debris block the cooling fan, then the airflow becomes limited. When airflow is obstructed, your AC will be incapable of producing air-conditioned air. Therefore, you need to clear all the debris from your condenser.

Make sure that the surrounding plants are at least two feet away from the outdoor unit. If that doesn’t do the trick, contact a professional HVAC contractor. An expert will inspect your outdoor unit clean the evaporator coil and straighten out the cooling fin when necessary.

https://youtu.be/-bqtQ5WQ3dA?si=3NXuFxKm6jUn-uwr

Conclusion

From what we have discussed above, several factors can affect why your cooling system is suddenly blowing hot air. Your AC might be experiencing compressor or refrigerant issues. A problem with your electrical panel can also cause your AC to malfunction. Whatever the cause, a professional HVAC contractor will be able to assist you.

For any heating or air conditioning concerns, don’t hesitate to call Townsend Energy. Our professional HVAC technicians provide fast and reliable services including air conditioner tune-ups, HVAC repairs, replacements, installations, and more. We have the best NATE-certified home AC contractors on our team. You can trust us to properly diagnose your air conditioner’s issues and find the most practical solutions to repair them. Townsend Energy’s team is ready to provide you with high-quality services that fit within your budget. Best of all, we make sure that each visit with us is a pleasant one. Schedule a free estimate with us today. Call now!

Some of the areas we service include Beverly, Danvers, Middleton, and Wenham, these zip codes: 01915, 01923, 01949, 01984, as well as all surrounding areas in Essex County, Massachusetts.

Contact us now at (800) 888-2888 to find out more!

Is Your Old Air Conditioner Costing You?

Old A/Cs deteriorate faster as they age. An old air conditioning system is also less efficient, and this equates to high electricity bills. If you add in the frequent repairs, parts, and services that your old AC will need, these costs will surely put a dent in your budget. Installing a highly efficient AC system is the perfect solution to inefficiency and expensive repair bills.

Homeowners often wonder how spending money on a new AC can help them be economical. The answer mostly lies with the latest technology newer models are equipped with.

Townsend Energy provides services to ensure that your air conditioner is running at peak efficiency. These services also guarantee that your system can perform well and provide you with the comfort that you desire. We offer HVAC installation or replacement services, repairs, and cooling system tune-ups. Our professional technicians have years of experience and training to service your HVAC unit properly. We guarantee our work to ensure your satisfaction. All of our services are affordable, professional, and friendly. Contact us to schedule a free, in-home consultation.

How To Save Money With An Air Conditioner Installation Danvers MA

Contents

• 1 How To Save Money With An Air Conditioner Installation Danvers MA
  • 1.1 Higher Energy-Efficiency
  • 1.2 Better Humidity Control
  • 1.3 Technologically-Savvy Thermostat
  • 1.4 Higher Indoor Air Quality
  • 1.5 Reduce Repairs
  • 1.6 Rebates And Incentives
  • 1.7 Conclusion

An old AC unit is susceptible to frequent malfunctioning. It also results in expensive power bills at the end of each month. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why upgrading to a new air conditioning system saves you money.

Higher Energy-Efficiency

Technology advancements are made every day. This technological progression includes HVAC systems and the designs that manufacturers use. The most significant change is that more modern AC units can deliver cool air into your home while decreasing the energy needed to complete this action.

The seasonal energy efficiency ratio or SEER rating is a unit of measurement used to gauge how much cooling power (BTU) a cooling unit puts out for each watt of energy that the system consumes over the same time frame. Overall, an AC with a high SEER rating means it uses less power and is more cost-effective.

Modern units have high SEER ratings. These ratings are much higher than old models. Therefore, upgrading to a more modern air conditioner means you’ll enjoy getting lower electric bills every month. It will pay for itself with lower home cooling costs.

Better Humidity Control

Aside from controlling the indoor temperature and air quality, your cooling system also has other functions. One of these functions is managing the condensation level in your home. It does so by dehumidifying your home before cooling it. However, as your air conditioner ages, it does not run as efficiently as before. It also does not control humidity as well.

Poor humidity control means that there is more moisture in your AC and your home. This moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Allergens are then introduced into the air. In turn, you and your family might experience some health issues like coughing, eye irritation, and skin allergies. Mold also affects your AC’s heating and cooling performance and can cause water damage. Upgrading to a new system will prevent these issues and the high costs that come with them.

Technologically-Savvy Thermostat

Another technological advancement new ACs are compatible with high-tech thermostats. These thermostats make your home life more manageable. It allows the homeowner to input pre-programmed settings. These settings are guaranteed to increase your home’s thermal comfort. At the same time, it will help you save money.

Higher Indoor Air Quality

Your air conditioner traps pollutants from entering your home. These contaminants tend to build up quickly in old ACs. This thick dust and dirt contribute to the decrease in your AC’s efficiency. That being said, your A/C is more likely to experience more system breakdowns as time passes. The debris only gets denser as time passes, and their associated malfunctions will occur more often. Eventually, this situation could lead to a complete system failure. This circumstance will disrupt your household’s comfort and will be expensive to repair.

These particulates can also cause many health concerns including skin allergies, wheezing, and asthma. A new air conditioner provides improved airflow and healthier air. This upgrade also helps in making sure that you and your family do not suffer from these illnesses and the expense that comes with health care.

Reduce Repairs

Old A/Cs tend to incur more damages as they age. More damages mean frequent repairs. The risk of system failure is higher without proper maintenance checks. Having your AC repeatedly repaired will affect your household budget. Keep in mind that if the accumulated value of repairs from your malfunctioning A/C equals half the cost of a central air replacement cost, then you should seriously consider buying a new one soon. Modern AC units, with routine maintenance, will be more beneficial and economical to run.

Rebates And Incentives

A new AC unit is an investment. Upgrading your old heating and cooling system to a new HVAC system qualifies you for rebates and discounts. Government agencies want each household to be as energy-efficient as possible, and this will only happen when homeowners install highly-efficient ACs in their homes. To promote this, agencies and manufacturers provide direct refunds, and tax credits or deductions to help lower your central air conditioner replacement cost. Purchasing cooling units that have high SEER ratings qualify you for more rebates and incentives.

Conclusion

Just as we’ve discussed, updating your old AC to a more modern system can help you save money. It also translates to higher energy efficiency, increased comfort, and healthier indoor air quality. You will also receive rebates and incentives on your central air conditioner installation.

A reliable HVAC contractor can help you with any heating and cooling concerns you have. Also, they can provide you with all the information you need when you are thinking of installing a new AC in your home.

For a reputable HVAC company that offers a wide range of heating and cooling services and solutions, make sure to contact Townsend Energy. We can also provide you with an HVAC system replacement at honest prices. We will make sure that your AC provides you with high levels of comfort without the added energy costs.

Our licensed technicians specialize in tune-ups, repairs, and installations. They are courteous and friendly. Best of all, we guarantee that every visit you have with us is a pleasant one. Schedule a free, in-home consultation with us today.

Some of the areas we service include Beverly, Danvers, Middleton, and Wenham, these zip codes: 01915, 01923, 01949, 01984, as well as all surrounding areas in Essex County, Massachusetts.

Contact us now at (800) 888-2888 to find out more!

Vacations are always exciting and something every family member looks forward to. However, before the fun begins, there are still a few more things you need to accomplish and prepare. Your to-do list might be long, but you should never forget to add in your heating and air conditioning equipment. This way, you don’t have to worry about it while you are away. Not only that but preparing your HVAC system will assure you that you do not come home to a hot and humid house.

To ensure that your HVAC system is running at optimum efficiency while on vacation, contact Townsend Energy. We provide high-quality HVAC installation services, cooling system tune-ups, repairs, and replacements. Our friendly and professional technicians are equipped with skills and training to assess and diagnose all your HVAC issues correctly. All of our services are affordable, including our HVAC maintenance cost. Call us today for a free estimate.

Required HVAC Maintenance Beverly MA Before Going On Vacation

Your HVAC system is primarily responsible for keeping your home comfortable. It is essential to keep it that way even after you return home from vacation. This article will discuss some helpful HVAC maintenance tips to make your AC and furnace energy-efficient and cost-effective while you enjoy your vacation.

Don’t Turn Off Your System

The first thing that you might think you should do is turn off your HVAC system while you are out of town. After all, it seems like it’s the best course of action to take while you aren’t at home. While turning your heating and cooling system off might seem like you’re saving money, doing so will cost you more.

Your HVAC system is designed to work around the clock. With that being the case, repetitively turning it on and off tends to overstrain your system. Also, your HVAC unit does more than regulate the indoor temperature. It circulates air and controls humidity and allergens.

Turning your system off will significantly affect the quality of your indoor air. It can result in mold growth which can cause damage to your home and health. Simply put, don’t turn off your system even if you’ll be away from your home for a week.
It is also vital to know at what temperature you should leave your AC or furnace. Keep the temperature at least five degrees higher than usual if you’re going on vacation during the summer season. Whereas during winter vacation, take four to five degrees off your typical temperature setting.

Install A Surge Protector

Unexpected power outages or a power surge can happen while you are on vacation. These electrical interruptions can cause damage to your HVAC system. To prevent these unnecessary breakages from happening, you might want to consider installing a surge protector. A surge protector is an inexpensive device designed to protect your system from sudden voltage spikes. It will help ensure that your HVAC unit is in perfect working condition even after you return home from vacation. Likewise, it prevents having to pay for avoidable repairs or replacements.

Check Your Air Filter

Proper airflow is essential for your HVAC system to function properly. Be sure to change your filter before leaving town. This ensures low energy costs and it prevents problems that are caused by blocked filters.

Install A Programmable Thermostat

An automatic setback or programmable thermostat adjusts the temperature in your home depending on the pre-programmed settings that you have put in place. It has a pre-set schedule that is designed to make your system energy-efficient. For example, you can set the temperature to rise while you are on summer vacation. You can also set the temperature to drop so that you are welcomed by cold air when you get home.

Make sure to install a programmable thermostat that is compatible with your unit. Otherwise, you will end up harming your HVAC system rather than saving on energy costs. If you are unsure of what type of programmable thermostat to install, contact a trusted professional.

Open The Vents & Close The Windows

Airflow is essential for your cooling and heating system to work efficiently. With this in mind, you must keep all air vents open to ensure proper airflow. Moreover, you need to keep all the windows closed. Closing all your windows will make sure that your house is safe while you’re away. It will also ensure that your heater or A/C is working at optimum efficiency.

Schedule A Tune-Up

The most important tip is to have a professional HVAC technician conduct maintenance on your HVAC system as part of your HVAC maintenance schedule. A licensed technician will make sure that your system is running at its peak efficiency. A routine check will make sure that there are no refrigerant leaks or electrical issues. The technician will also clean the air filters, and the evaporator coils, and sweep away debris that might be blocking your outside unit. They will check for any issues to ensure that any problems do not have the chance to escalate while you are out of town. When a problem escalates, it costs more to repair.

Overall, calling a trusted HVAC contractor will significantly benefit you and your system. It will guarantee that your heating and cooling system is still in excellent condition after you come home. You will be welcomed by a cool and comfortable home, without having to dread your energy utility bill at the end of the month.

Conclusion

As mentioned above, you need to prepare your HVAC system before you leave on vacation. Remember to keep your system on, open all air vents, and close all the windows. Most importantly, conduct routine maintenance on your system. Make sure you contact a trusted, local HVAC technician.

For fast and reliable HVAC services, call Townsend Energy today. We offer a wide range of home comfort services, including HVAC tune-ups, installations, and repairs. Rest assured that Townsend Energy‘s team of professional technicians is NATE-certified. They are highly skilled and are trained to provide services for all types of air conditioning and heating equipment. Our friendly technicians ensure that each visit is a pleasant one. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate.

Some of the areas we service include Beverly, Danvers, Hamilton, Prides Crossing, South Hamilton, Wenham, and these zip codes: 01915, 01923, 01936, 01965, 01982, 01984, as well as all surrounding areas in Essex County, Massachusetts.

Contact us now at (800) 888-2888 to find out more!