Have You Checked Your HVAC Air Filter Lately?

The air filter is a vital part of your HVAC system. It usually has spun fiberglass material. However, some are made up of pleated paper or cloth. A cardboard frame usually encloses it.

The air filter is responsible for cleaning the air that circulates through your HVAC system. Not only that, but the air filter also traps contaminants and debris, preventing them from entering your home. It helps you achieve optimum comfort but also helps prevent sickness as well.

Townsend Energy provides top-quality services for all your HVAC needs. We specialize in HVAC installation services, cooling system tune-ups, repairs, and replacements. Our professional technicians have the knowledge, skills, and years of experience to correctly service your HVAC unit properly. We guarantee our work and our high-quality services always come at reasonable costs. Call us today for a free estimate or to schedule an air conditioner maintenance service.

Air Conditioner Maintenance Danvers MA: Changing Your HVAC Filter

Contents

• 1 Air Conditioner Maintenance Danvers MA: Changing Your HVAC Filter
  • 1.1 Dirty Air Filter
  • 1.2 Extended Lifespan
  • 1.3 Energy Efficiency
  • 1.4 Fewer Repairs
  • 1.5 Better Indoor Air Quality
  • 1.6 Preventing Mold
  • 1.7 Conclusion

In this article, we will discuss the effects of a dirty air filter. We also aim to answer the question of why it is vital to change your HVAC filter.

Dirty Air Filter

As time passes, your AC’s air filter gathers more and more particulates. The fine mesh becomes dense with this buildup. A dirty air filter means that air cannot pass as easily compared to a clean air filter. This situation will cause your A/C’s blower fan to strain to push air through. In turn, some rooms in your home may not cool or heat as well as other areas will.

The air filter has numerous essential functions. Therefore, it is crucial to clean it or change it regularly. When you have clean air filters, you will enjoy many benefits.

Extended Lifespan

The decrease in airflow caused by a dirty air filter also makes your HVAC system less efficient. This airflow reduction can cause the individual heating and cooling components of your system to overstrain. When this happens, your system might stop working correctly and eventually experience system failure.

If you want your air conditioner unit to last longer, your AC must receive regular professional maintenance. Part of the maintenance check is cleaning or changing your air filter. By doing so, you can avoid costly repairs and premature replacements.

Energy Efficiency

Heated or cooled air can’t travel out of the furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner as easily when contaminants clog the surfaces of your air filters. The reduction in airflow causes your HVAC system to work a lot harder. This situation leads to the decline of the overall efficiency of the HVAC system which will create an uneven temperature throughout your home. You will be paying the same amount of energy or using the same amount of gas or oil but will not receive optimum thermal comfort.

Check your filter every month as part of your central air conditioner maintenance. Change it when it is dirty. You can save by as much as 15 percent on your energy utility bill.

Fewer Repairs

Clogged air filters can lead to many problems such as overheating, frozen evaporator coils, and furnace failure, to name a few. These damages can lead to system failure unless you address them immediately. Frequent repairs are costly. Clean air filters are crucial to keep your HVAC system performing well and to avoid unnecessary repair costs.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Air quality is essential as it is a significant contributor to your health. One of the benefits of having a clean HVAC air filter is high-quality indoor air. It traps contaminants such as dust and pollen and, in turn, promotes cleaner air.

If a filter accumulates particles, it loses its protective function. A clogged filter will only re-circulate harmful debris back into your home. It is especially worse if you have pets or live near dust such as construction sites.

Running your HVAC system with an obstructed filter can lead to severe respiratory illnesses or skin irritations. A clean air filter promotes better indoor air quality and improves your health.

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Preventing Mold

The accumulated debris on your dirty air filter can attract condensation. This dampness encourages mold or bacteria growth.

Many damages occur when mold gets into your air conditioner or furnace. Mold will interfere with the normal function of your system, and it can cause harm to your body.

When the fungus is introduced to your body, it can lead to multiple respiratory issues including allergies. Moreover, it can damage the walls and floors of your home. Keep your air filters clean to prevent mold growth, and, as a default, you will avoid the problems that come hand-in-hand with it.

Conclusion

A clean air filter is crucial to enjoy the many benefits that come with it. A dirty filter affects your HVAC’s functionality, your wallet, and your well-being as well. Make sure that a trusted HVAC contractor routinely maintains your furnace and air conditioning system. You can search for “air conditioner maintenance near me” and find a reputable heating and cooling company in your area.

For reliable HVAC services, call Townsend Energy. Our team of NATE-certified technicians can properly maintain your system so that it runs efficiently and enhances the comfort level of your home. Our professional technicians specialize in HVAC tune-ups, repairs, and installations. We guarantee our work and all of our high-quality HVAC services are very affordable. When performing a tune-up, we use a comprehensive air conditioner maintenance checklist to ensure that your system is ready to beat the heat. Give us a call and schedule your free estimate 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 (978) 717-0490">(978) 717-0490 to find out more!

5 Tips To Improve Your Home or Businesses Energy Efficiency

A recent study by the US Department of Energy (DOE) found that the average household in the US spends at least 2,200 annually on energy bills. Interestingly enough, heating and cooling account for nearly half of that amount. On the other hand, small businesses in America collectively spend more than $60 billion on energy every year.

When it comes to improving the energy efficiency of your home or office, no one understands the best strategies as an HVAC contractor does. One of the specialties of an HVAC technician is knowing and implementing the most effective approach to help lower those power bills. They understand practical methods to make your heating or cooling system perform well so that you can reduce your energy use. Since no one wants to pay more than necessary for their utilities, it is worth meeting with an HVAC contractor.

Townsend Energy offers a full range of heating and cooling services including AC tune-ups, HVAC repairs, furnace replacements, and more. We can assess the energy efficiency of your home or business and make suggestions on how you can effectively lower your power bills. We offer free estimates and consultations. Call our office today by clicking on the button below.

With that in mind, here are five energy-saving tips to improve your home or business's energy efficiency.

Contents

• 1 5 Tips To Improve Your Home or Businesses Energy Efficiency
  • 1.1 Seal Building’s Envelope
  • 1.2 Seal And Insulate Your Air Ducts
  • 1.3 HVAC System Maintenance
  • 1.4 Install ENERGY STAR Certified Windows
  • 1.5 Invest In A Programmable Thermostat
  • 1.6 Energy Saving Tips

Seal Building’s Envelope

Air leaks through the components of your building’s envelope including floors, doors, outer walls, windows, skylights, and roof could increase your energy costs by as much as 20%, according to the US Department of Energy (DOE). What’s more, such leaks account for as much energy loss as a window left open throughout the year in a typical home, says the DOE.

To prevent energy waste through such leaks, you should hire a professional HVAC contractor to test your building for air tightness and more importantly, seal all the air leaks in the building’s envelope. While at it, ensure the HVAC contractor also insulates your home properly. Insulation is important because most homes in America lack adequate insulation, according to the DOE. By doing this, you will be able to reduce your energy consumption and therefore cut your energy costs.

Seal And Insulate Your Air Ducts

Studies show that a leaky duct system loses anywhere from 20% to 30% of conditioned air due to leaks, holes, and poor connections. Additionally, leaky air ducts cause your HVAC system to work longer and harder, increasing your building’s energy consumption. Some of the telltale signs of leaking ducts include dirt and debris buildup in the house, inadequate heating, and above-average energy bills.

If you notice any of these signs, you should get a licensed HVAC contractor to inspect your ductwork and insulate it properly. Remember, air leaks in the return side of the duct system are generally difficult to detect because return ducts operate at lower air pressure. To detect leaks in the return duct, licensed HVAC technicians use diagnostic tools such as duct-blaster, blower-door, and pressure-pan tests to detect air leaks in your ductwork. To improve your building’s energy efficiency, the HVAC technician will seal and insulate your ductwork.

HVAC System Maintenance

Ensure your air conditioning system is in pristine working condition. In particular, you should get a professional HVAC contractor to clean and replace your system’s air filter regularly. Additionally, you should schedule a thorough HVAC tune-up and cleaning at least once a year.

Install ENERGY STAR Certified Windows

If you replace your old windows with ENERGY STAR-certified windows, you can lower your energy bills by as much as 15% and reduce your home’s carbon footprint at the same time, says the DOE. In addition to installing ENERGY STAR-certified windows, you should use caulk and weather strip around your doors and windows to stop air leaks.

Invest In A Programmable Thermostat

The Energy Star says that nearly 45% of a typical home’s energy use goes toward heating and cooling. Unfortunately, heating or cooling some empty spaces accounts for a lot of this energy. Many homeowners and business owners heat or cool their buildings when no one is there. This situation is where a programmable thermostat comes in handy.

This type of thermostat automatically regulates the temperature based on the schedule that you set for it, leading to energy saving. The DOE says this type of thermostat can help you reduce your annual energy costs by about $180. This amount may not sound like much, but you would be surprised.

Energy Saving Tips

To improve your home or business's energy efficiency, hire a qualified HVAC technician to seal and insulate your building’s envelope and ductwork. Additionally, invest in a programmable thermostat and replace your old windows with ENERGY STAR-certified windows.

Townsend Energy provides heating and cooling services to commercial and residential properties. We offer HVAC maintenance, repairs, replacements, and much more. You can count on our experienced and licensed technicians to perform superior work in your home or office. Even better, when working with us, you will receive the highest quality work for the most affordable prices. We believe in prioritizing our customer's needs to ensure that their satisfaction is met. Call today to schedule an appointment.

Contact us now at (978) 717-0490">(978) 717-0490 to find out more!

When the outside temperatures start climbing, air conditioning is a great way to maintain a comfortably cool home. But, what if your central cooling system starts blowing out warm air? What if it’s no longer capable of keeping your entire home cool? These are developments that often mean that your unit is no longer functioning as it should.

The good news is that it’s possible to resolve nearly every issue with your home cooling system. It’s essential, however, to know when you need to start looking for “residential air conditioning contractors near me,” or when the problem is one that you can quickly fix on your own.

HVAC technicians who have the proper training have put in a considerable amount of testing and field work to earn the necessary certifications. Even though many AC problems are repairable, this is a job that a licensed technician should handle. There’s a lot of training and knowledge that’s necessary for becoming a licensed HVAC technician. As such, you should leave all but the most basic troubleshooting tasks to local HVAC contractors.

When you need to hire a reputable and reliable company that specializes in HVAC repair, Townsend Energy is the company to connect with. By working with Townsend Energy, you’ll get affordable prices and rapid service. Our HVAC techs can identify and resolve your cooling system problems in no time at all. We offer services throughout Danvers, MA, and the surrounding areas. If you’re currently experiencing air conditioning issues in your home, get in touch with Townsend Energy right now to get your free estimate.

Air conditioner problems tend to fall within specific categories. Following are some of the most common issues that people can experience with their home cooling systems. We will also discuss some information for determining whether or not these are DIY repair projects or projects that should only be handled by professional HVAC technicians.

When To Hire A Professional HVAC Repair Service Or Do It Yourself

Options In DIY HVAC Repairs

We’ll start by identifying home HVAC issues that you may be able to fix on your own.

Thermostat Settings

Problems with the thermostat could be why your AC system isn’t working as it should. Start by checking the batteries in your thermostat. You also want to verify that the thermostat isn’t set to “on” or “fan.”
When the “fan” setting is selected, this means that the fan will run continuously and that the unit isn’t set to cool. Set the thermostat to “auto,” and keep it on this setting always. This setting will allow you to keep your home cool in the most energy-efficient way.

Check For A Dirty Air Filter

An air filter that’s clogged and dirty might lie at the heart of your AC troubles. When these filters get dirty, it reduce airflow. Dirty filters can cause AC systems to struggle as they attempt to circulate sufficient amounts of cooled air. This circumstance means that even though you’ve set your thermostat to 75 degrees, it may only be possible for your unit to lower the indoor temperature to 80 degrees.

If a clogged filter is causing your home cooling system to work harder than it should, the evaporator coil can freeze. When this occurs, your air conditioning system will not be able to keep your home cool.

The best way to avoid problems like these is by checking the air filter in your unit regularly. If it looks like it’s getting dirty or clogged, be sure to change the HVAC filter right away.

The Exterior Of The Unit Is Dirty

Air conditioning systems are designed to absorb heat from the nearby air. The condenser and evaporator within your unit move this warm air to the exterior of the building.

The outdoor unit can become clogged with dirt and other forms of debris. When it does, the heat will not be able to dissipate. A dirty outdoor unit will, in turn, cause the system to work harder and use additional energy. More importantly, your home won’t cool down sufficiently.

You can easily clean the outside of this unit with your garden hose. Just spray the exterior of the machine gently to loosen and flush away dirt and debris. Don’t use a high-pressure setting to blast the system. If the water pressure is too high, you could bend or otherwise damage the fins on your unit. You also need to get rid of any weeds or overgrowth from surrounding foliage so that these things do not block the airflow.

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Repair Jobs For Professionals

Next, let’s talk about the problems that should be handled by licensed HVAC contractors. Always make sure to search for “residential HVAC contractors near me” and find the best company in your area.

A Broken Or Malfunctioning Condenser Fan Motor

If the fan motor in your unit has failed, your home cooling system will not be able to move heat outdoors efficiently. When this happens, your cooling equipment will no longer have the ability to cool your home the way that you want it to.

Refrigerant Leaks Or A Low Refrigerant Charge

Your AC system uses refrigerant liquid to remove warm air from your home. When this liquid leaks or becomes low, it is no longer able to absorb heat. As such, although your cooling system might be turned on, it won’t be able to cool your home down.

If you hear hissing or bubbling sounds, this may be a sign of a refrigerant leak. You might even notice a buildup of ice on the outside of the unit or the actual refrigerant lines.

If you notice that your AC system is capable of keeping your home at a comfortable temperature at night or on mild days, but not on days that are excessively hot, you probably have problems with the refrigerant.

When you notice issues like these, do not continue running your air conditioner. Running your unit while it’s in this condition can result in a damaged compressor. This situation can cause such severe damage to your air conditioner that the system may be rendered irreparable. Turn it off instead, and contact a local HVAC professional right away.

As ever, take the time to look for the “best HVAC contractors near me” and to locate the most reputable and reliable AC company in your region. Be sure to read their HVAC contractor reviews as well so that you can make an informed hiring decision.

A Damaged Compressor

The very heart of your home cooling system is its compressor. This component is responsible for the circulation of refrigerant, which transfers the inside heat outdoors. If the compressor is damaged or if it isn’t working as it should, your cooling system will not be able to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Compressors are an expensive HVAC system component. If your AC company decides that the compressor needs a replacement, hopefully, you have a system warranty to fall back on. If you don’t, you may need to replace the entire outside unit.

HVAC Contractors Danvers MA

Townsend Energy has trained technicians to diagnose and repair any air conditioning problem that you face.

Our NATE-certified technicians have the experience that’s necessary for accurately diagnosing and resolving your home cooling issues.

When possible, we offer our clients a variety of repair solutions, so that they can choose the options that are best suited to their budgets and their needs.

We even offer affordable emergency HVAC services that you can use if your AC system won’t turn on at all. We’re always happy to provide free estimates – so be sure to give us a call.

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 (978) 717-0490 to find out more!

Get Your Air Conditioning Running As Efficiently As Possible

Homeowners are always searching for ways to reduce energy costs. In the case of home air conditioners, lower cooling costs are dependent upon having an AC unit that is energy efficient and working correctly. If you want to ensure that your home's air conditioning runs as efficiently as possible, contact Townsend Energy today.

Our HVAC services can help your AC use less energy so that you can save money. We can ensure that your heating and air conditioning unit operates at its peak performance. Whether you need repairs, maintenance, or AC tune-ups, we have the services you need. We can also recommend effective strategies that can help lower your summer cooling costs. Call us today. We will be happy to schedule an appointment.

A frequent question we receive from homeowners concerns whether shutting vents to unused rooms is helpful. Here, we will answer this common question while also providing some handy summer energy tips.

Closing HVAC Vents In Unused Rooms – Does It Save Money?

Contents

• 1 Closing HVAC Vents In Unused Rooms – Does It Save Money?
  • 1.1 Blower Motor Types
  • 1.2 Closing HVAC Vents -How is Blower Motor Performance Affected?
  • 1.3 Increased Duct Leakage
  • 1.4 Get Your Air Conditioning Working At Peak Efficiency

It is a common misconception that closing HVAC vents in unused rooms is an excellent way to save on energy costs. Unfortunately, this is not the case, as your system will still need to work just as hard. Closing vents can increase pressure within the air ducts, which could lead to maintenance issues and costly repairs. Depending on your air conditioner’s motor type, closing vents could cause duct leakage, air conditioner coil freeze-up, compressor issues, decreased airflow within the ducts, and increased energy usage and costs. The following information will also help answer your questions concerning whether or not closing ducts is useful — or harmful.

Blower Motor Types

When it comes to how air conditioning works, your unit’s blower motor is responsible for distributing cooled air throughout your home. It pulls warm air from the home, via the system’s return ducts. Additionally, cooled air is pushed into the house, using the supply ducts. These are the principles of air conditioning basics. Primarily, blower motors are either permanent split capacity (PSC), or electronically commutated motor (ECM) blowers.

The ECM blower motor can access the workload and then vary its speed accordingly. A PSC motor will always blow at a fixed rate. Systems utilizing PSC motors tend to be less efficient, while ECM motors are generally used in high-efficiency systems.

Closing HVAC Vents -How is Blower Motor Performance Affected?

In the case of both PSC and ECM motors, each type of motor pushes air against a maximum pressure difference. As a general rule, the pressure difference is 0.5 inches of water column (iwc). However, the maximum pressure difference can significantly increase, depending on specific factors. Narrow supply ducts, dirty air filters, or closing HVAC vents in rooms not being used are some of the most common elements. In these cases, extra pressure builds up within the ducts, and an ECM blower motor tries to work harder. This additional pressure results in higher energy usage, which of course translates to higher cooling costs.

In the case of a PSC motor, the blowing speed runs at a fixed rate. When a PSC motor encounters a build-up of pressure within the ducts, it slows down, due to the extra load. The result is an uncomfortable home since there will be less cooled air emitted from the open vents. The decreased airflow could also cause the evaporator coil to freeze up. Over time, this can cause severe compressor damage, resulting in an expensive repair to replace the compressor

Increased Duct Leakage

According to Energy Star, an average U.S. home loses between 20% and 30% of conditioned air, because of leaks within the ducts. This claim means that your home is possibly already losing a substantial amount of cooled air through duct leaks. If the pressure within the ducts increases, the problem of air leakage will worsen. It will require more energy to cool your home, your cooling costs will skyrocket, and your HVAC system will need to work harder.

Get Your Air Conditioning Working At Peak Efficiency

Closing HVAC vents located in rooms you are not using will not help lower your cooling costs. Closed vents will not alter how your system’s blower is supposed to operate.

It will cause a pressure build-up to occur within your home’s ducts. This growing pressure will produce a variety of issues, depending on the system’s blower type. In addition to indoor comfort issues, you could experience less airflow, air conditioner coil freeze-up, a dead compressor, or a cracked furnace heat exchanger. As such, closing vents is not the solution to use when trying to save on energy costs.

The professional HVAC contractors at Townsend Energy can help improve the energy efficiency of your home. Our heating and cooling technicians have the skills and training to keep your air conditioner operating at peak efficiency. As a result, your energy bills will be low, your home will feel comfortable, and your AC unit will run as it should. We understand the ins and outs of different types of air conditioning systems. Trust our technicians to understand your needs and provide the best solutions. Call us today to schedule an appointment. We offer free estimates.

Contact us now at (978) 717-0490">(978) 717-0490 to find out more!