Blogs from June, 2018

Name: Townsend Energy
Address: 27 Cherry St,, Danvers, MA, 01923

Most Recent Posts from June, 2018

Common Issues That Can Happen When Starting Up Your Air Conditioner
When the outside temperatures begin warming up, it is essential to be able to use a well-functioning air conditioner in your home. Even though your system may have worked well when you last used it, it is not unusual to discover issues when you turn it on for the new season. If it appears that your AC is not quite running cool enough, there may be one of many problems to blame.
It is best to call a professional to immediately evaluate the situation if you notice your AC acting up. When searching for “home A/C repair near me,” or “central air repair near me,” be sure to contact only the most reliable establishment in your area.
Townsend Energy provides reliable and affordable HVAC services, all of which are completed by our experienced professionals. Our friendly cooling and heating technicians can appropriately diagnose your AC problems and recommend the best course of action for your air conditioner repair. Schedule a free estimate by calling us today. We offer services in Danvers MA and many areas nearby.
Below are some of the most common issues consumers experience with their air conditioning systems when air conditioner troubleshooting.
Contents
- 1 Common Problems With Air Conditioners
Improper Operation
Although most people are familiar with their air conditioning systems and generally speaking, the majority of problems have nothing to do with the homeowner, operational errors do occur from time to time.
Thermostat
Setting your thermostat to a temperature that is too low or too high can cause the unit to shut itself on and off with abnormal frequency. This extra strain can result in a burned-out compressor or one that merely malfunctions, both of which can decrease the longevity of this vital part.
Keeping windows and doors opened, or closing vents are also actions that lead to an overworked compressor. However, if you catch the problem in time, it should be easy to fix. If, on the other hand, you do not immediately address the situation, it can lead to a malfunctioning unit that may wear out early.
Poor Maintenance
Substandard maintenance is another mistake that is often made by homeowners. Poor maintenance can lead to the unit breaking down or operating inefficiently.
Regular filter changing is essential. Otherwise, excessive dirt builds up in the system.
A dirty air conditioning unit can cause issues with your compressor and your condenser. An excess of dirt and debris in your AC system can also clog the condensate plate or drain. If this happens, a heating and cooling company must professionally clean the unit. The professional then assesses whether or not the clogged drain damaged the air conditioning unit. A clogged condensate plate or drain may also lead to a frozen coil, a shortage in the system, or a leak in the AC unit. Therefore, in addition to regularly changing the filter, you must also schedule professional tune-ups and cleanings at the start of every season. One of your area’s local air conditioning companies can complete this kind of service.
Installation And Service Errors
Well-maintained units sometimes break down. Unfortunately, quite a few issues may be traced back to improper installation by the HVAC company you hired to put in your new unit.
Incorrect AC Size
The most common error or problem associated with HVAC installation has to do with the wrong size unit. There is no one-size-fits-all for an air conditioning system. Therefore, it is vital for your technician to understand the appropriate way to calculate the best size for your home. Many aspects must be taken into consideration when sizing a residential cooling system.
When the technician has determined the appropriate size, he or she can then install the unit. However, if it is too large or too small, it will fail to work efficiently, ultimately leading to the unit’s premature death.
Repairing Your HVAC System
Not only are some air conditioning units incorrectly installed, but some are also incorrectly repaired when they break down. For instance, if there is a refrigerant leak, the unit must be recharged and repaired. If not, it will never work correctly again. Regardless of whether it only needs a charge or if it has a significant leak when refrigerant levels are low, the unit will malfunction.
Whenever you discover a problem with your AC, you should Google “air conditioning and heating repair near me,” to find a reliable and reputable HVAC establishment in your town. It is always wise to invest the time and effort to find a good company, rather than paying for poor quality work, the latter of which will cost you more in the long run. You certainly don’t want to pay for a mediocre repair service and a month later come home to discover that your air conditioner is not turning on.
Danvers Central Air Repair
Using certified technicians to maintain and install your air conditioning unit is essential. It is the best avenue through which to pinpoint problems and prevent common mistakes. Go to your favorite search engine and type in “air conditioner repair near me” to locate a trustworthy company that employs certified HVAC technicians who can come to your home.
When searching for trusted “home A/C repair near me,” call the certified professionals at Townsend Energy. We can repair and maintain your AC to keep it in optimum working order. By availing yourself of our services, your air conditioning unit is sure to run at peak efficiency. It will keep your home at a comfortable level throughout the entire summer. Schedule an appointment 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 (978) 717-0490">(978) 717-0490 to find out more!
Jun 25, 2018 For Danvers Central AC Repair, Contact Townsend Energy
What To Consider Before Your Next AC Installation
If your home needs air conditioner installation or replacement, the chances are that you have already discovered that there are many options from which to choose. Some of your choices make more sense than others. Before going any further in your search for the right one, talk with one of the air conditioner installation contractors at Townsend Energy for some expert advice.
The NATE-certified technicians at Townsend Energy fully understand the best way to meet individual needs. We make it a priority to stay within your budget while ensuring the product you select is energy efficient. Our techs are highly skilled and experienced in all things AC so that we can provide the best service in the area. While working with us, you will discover our commitment to honest pricing and friendly, professional services. We offer services for residents of Danvers, MA, and the surrounding areas. All you need to do to get a free in-home consultation is to make a simple phone call.
AC Solutions: Ductless Air Conditioning, Central Air Conditioners, And Window AC Units
Contents
- 1 AC Solutions: Ductless Air Conditioning, Central Air Conditioners, And Window AC Units
As you are searching for an air conditioning unit, you will find a wide variety of home comfort systems. The three most popular of these are central air conditioning units, window AC units, and mini-split ductless air conditioners. Each of these has pros and cons associated with them. Before any homeowner makes that final decision, it is best to learn about all these options. In this article, you will find a list of the main advantages and disadvantages of each type of system.
Window Air Conditioning Units
There is one significant advantage to window ACs that other types do not have. They cost far less, and they are easy to install. Homeowners typically install them in a window or an exterior wall. It is their inexpensiveness that is most attractive.
Nevertheless, there are some disadvantages associated with these units as well. The most significant drawback is that each window unit can only cool one room at a time. It will take multiple units to reduce the temperature in several rooms. Therefore, this type of air conditioning system can become expensive, and sometimes you don’t even have the option to use it. You see, it can be impossible to install window units in windowless rooms.
Additionally, these units are quite noisy as well. The evaporator and the condenser are both housed inside the window unit. That means it will be necessary to deal with that noise if you do choose to install a window air conditioner.
Window AC units can also pose security and health risks. Concerning health risks, these units are prone to the development of harmful substances such as mold and bacteria. The security risk comes from the fact that homeowners install them in open windows. These windows then become vulnerable to burglary or other nefarious activity.
In the long run, window AC units are not as efficient and pose many risks. For these reasons, they probably are not the best option as your home comfort system of choice. Your best bet is to have a professional install a ductless or central air conditioning system in your home.
Central Air Conditioners
The preferred air conditioning system for many US homeowners is the central air conditioner. They offer a high level of reliability and performance. They provide consistent temperature control no matter how hot the temperature outside becomes and they keep your dwelling comfortable throughout the year.
One advantage of central air conditioning systems is that the ductwork that delivers cold air into every room of your home can be used to distribute heated air as well. They even enhance air quality inside your home. The filtration system built right into them works hard to remove contaminants before they can reach your family. If your home already has ductwork, it dramatically reduces the initial cost associated with installing a new central air system.
Ductwork
Just like with every other air conditioning system, there are some disadvantages to central air conditioners. An example of this is the expense of installing ductwork if your home does not already have a network of ducts in place. Installing ducts is expensive and time-consuming. The occupants of the house have to live in a construction zone. Also, there is the work involved with maintaining that ductwork with regular cleanings to ensure mold and bacteria do not build up and cause illness.
These systems also use a significant amount of energy. However, the right team of HVAC technicians can adequately size a central air conditioning unit to cool your home appropriately.
You mustn't stress the central air system by closing the vents. Some homeowners do this to try to save money on power bills. However, because it is necessary to leave the vents open, your air conditioner will cool rooms that you may not be using. There are extra costs associated with cooling entire homes rather than only the rooms you use. Also, energy loss occurs when cooled air escapes through loose or improperly installed ducts.
Overall
After considering all the facts spelled out above, it is evident that central air conditioning units offer exceptional value for the price you pay. They also allow you to enjoy maximum comfort in your home as well as high indoor air quality. Nevertheless, the most energy-efficient and comfortable residential air conditioning systems are the ductless type.
Ductless Air Conditioners
Mini-split ductless air conditioners, or ductless air conditioners, provide a fantastic cooling option for any home. No ductwork is required either. There are two main components to these units, the air handler, and the evaporator. The air handler is on the inside of the house, but the condenser is outdoors. Refrigerant tubing and electrical cables connect these two.
The installation of ductless air conditioning systems is fast and straightforward for a technician who has experience. HVAC technicians install the unit's air handler on the ceiling or interior wall with the condenser outdoors. Experienced techs know how to connect the air handler high and out of the way of people and furniture. Several installation methods are available from which to choose, but major construction techniques are not required. During the installation, you can add the number of zones needed to meet your needs.
Energy Efficient Cooling
The energy efficiency of ductless air conditioners is much better than window AC units or central air conditioning systems. Each time you leave a room, you can turn the unit off and stop cooling that room to reduce energy consumption. Your energy bills can be lower with this type of system as compared to central air conditioning or window ACs. Another advantage is the high SEER ratings and sophisticated filtration system that these units have. They enhance the indoor air quality of your home. Nevertheless, you will need to hire a skilled HVAC contractor to help determine the best unit for your home.
https://youtu.be/4j1yoDMvEOw?si=JQ_RrUou0KAOkAQE
Danvers Air Conditioner Installation Contractor
Townsend Energy is a trusted HVAC service provider that offers affordable pricing for residential as well as commercial properties. We are proud to provide exceptional services for your heating and cooling requirements such as repairs, installation, and tune-ups as well as maintenance tasks.
We outshine the competition in every area with friendly service, efficient installation, and affordable prices.
To learn more about the services and systems we offer, contact Townsend Energy. We will schedule an appointment so that you can meet with one of our professionals for a free consultation. We will be happy to discuss your concerns and find the best available cooling solutions. We’ll answer all your questions thoroughly. Call us today so that we can provide you with the right solutions to your air conditioning problems.
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!
Jun 18, 2018 For A Danvers AC Installation Contractor, Contact Townsend Energy
Why You Should Order Heating Oil Before The Summer Settles In
Most homeowners in Beverly and other areas of Massachusetts are often trying to find the best local fuel delivery companies. For some people, this is a challenging task. Fortunately, it doesn’t need to be as difficult as it sounds.
Many homeowners choose an oil delivery company based on the prices that the companies are quoting at the time. However, other factors should be involved in the decision other than the cost.
Outside of price, you should choose a company that has a reputation for providing excellent customer service. You should also select a company that offers high-quality fuel. It is best to start looking for the best fuel supply company during the summer when your demand for fuel isn’t as high.
Townsend Energy has a reputation for providing reliable fuel oil deliveries that will make your home comfortable when it gets cold. Not only do we offer excellent prices and fantastic service, but we also guarantee your satisfaction with the work that we do for you. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today. We service Beverly MA and the surrounding areas.
When summer approaches, most people are more concerned with having their air conditioners tuned up and changing their AC filters. Handling these things will improve the efficiency and air quality of your home. While worrying about your air conditioner is essential, worrying only about your air conditioner is a mistake. You also need to care for your oil tank. Since the hot weather can hurt the tank, it should be a significant cause for concern. Below, you will learn about a few things that you should consider before the summer.
Top Reasons To Top Off Your Oil Tank During Summer
Contents
- 1 Top Reasons To Top Off Your Oil Tank During Summer
If you use heating oil to run your furnace, you are going to have an oil tank somewhere on your property. One of the most crucial times to worry about your fuel tank’s condition is during the summer. It is generally during the summer when an oil tank gets low. If the tank isn’t full when the weather heats up, it can cause problems.
When the air outside is humid, condensation can build up inside the tank. Warm air can carry moisture much better than cold air. This ability to transport water results in water droplets that form on the inner wall of the oil tank. When the water drips down, it forms rust in the tank. If the problem persists, it can erode the inside of the tank.
Rust isn’t the only problem that is caused by condensation. It can also keep your heating system from functioning correctly. When sedimentation and condensation build up in the tank, it impacts the heating system. If your tank runs low and you start your heater, the contaminants in your tank build up in the fuel lines. The system can get clogged, causing the heater to malfunction. To fix this problem, you would need to hire a professional.
To avoid these issues entirely, you should do a Google search for “home heating oil delivery near me” and fill your tank before the summer. Always use the services of a reputable fuel oil delivery service that supplies high-quality oil to their customers, like Townsend Energy. High-quality oil has fewer contaminants in it than lower-quality fuel oil. Also, a full tank will prevent condensation, preserving the condition of your tank.
Keeping Contaminants Out Of The Fuel Tank
When you fill your oil tank, it will prevent condensation from building up on the inner walls. If the tank is full, there will be no room for condensation. Naturally, when there is less moisture inside the tank, there is a smaller possibility of rust. Another great reason to fill your tank during the summer is that the oil prices are generally lower. The warm weather is considered to be the “off-season.” When there is a high oil demand, the prices skyrocket. There isn’t much of a demand for heating oil during the summer since people do not need to heat their homes.
Consider A Heating Oil Tank Replacement
If your oil tank is old, you should consider replacing it. When most tanks hit their 20-year mark, they have reached their maximum lifespan. A new tank will be less likely to malfunction. Therefore, you can be sure that your system will run efficiently.
All you need to start the process of replacing your oil tank is to call your local heating oil company such as Townsend Energy. If a heating technician recommends a tank replacement, there are discounts available. Since 2016, a rebate on a new oil tank installation has been offered by the National Oilheat Research Alliance. This discount helps lower the cost of installation.
Beverly Heating Oil Delivery Companies
When you are doing a Google search for “home heating oil companies near me” or “fuel oil delivery near me”, make sure to contact Townsend Energy. Our company provides excellent service and we offer the most affordable heating oil prices in the area. We also specialize in heating and cooling services to ensure that your equipment is always ready for the season. To learn more about the services we provide, give us a call today. We would be more than happy to answer all of your questions regarding fuel costs, delivery plans, and maintenance and repairs on your heating or cooling systems.
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 (978) 717-0490">(978) 717-0490 to find out more!
Jun 11, 2018 For The Best Of All The Beverly Fuel Oil Delivery Companies, Contact Townsend Energy
Townsend Energy’s Commitment To Innovation And Improving Our Future
Left to right: Front row: Matthew Morrison and Jamie Py, Maine Energy Marketers Association; Senator Susan Collins, R-ME; Jim Townsend, Townsend Energy. Back Row: Mike Estes, Estes Oil & Propane; Robert Cort, Maine Energy; Jim Collura, NEFI.
Townsend Energy CEO, Jim Townsend, was recently in Washington DC to discuss modifying CDL and Hazmat driver age requirements. The goal was to create additional employment opportunities for Veterans and others entering the workforce.
Additionally, he advocated for the reauthorization of the Blenders Tax Credit for Biodiesel. This tax credit will incentivize the blending of this environmentally friendly fuel into heating oil.
In this article, we will discuss a little more on the driver requirements for a commercial driver’s license and the associated Hazmat endorsements for fuel transportation. Also, we will touch on biodiesel including what it is and how it is implemented in your home as a source of heat.
Transporting Fuel To Consumers
Contents
Heating oil suppliers typically use trucks to deliver biodiesel to consumers. This means that you need both a Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) and a HazMat endorsement to legally transport fuel, such as heating oil or biodiesel, to consumers.
Similar to civilians, military vets need a CDL to drive heavy trucks. Fortunately, it is relatively easy for military veterans to apply for a CDL and a HazMat endorsement to legally handle and transport hazardous chemicals and fuel, including heating oil. To apply for a CDL, you must be 18 years or older. On the other hand, you need to be at least 21 years old to apply for a HazMat endorsement.
The Importance Of Hiring Military Vets
Heating oil companies usually experience delivery challenges, ranging from extremely cold weather to poor driving conditions. For this reason, heating oil companies require truck drivers who can work under such challenging conditions. This is where military vets come in handy.
Thanks to their military training, strong work ethic, and dedication to routine, military vets with driving experience are likely to excel in the trucking industry. At this point, it is worth noting that some military vets have been trained to drive commercial fleets and heavy trucks, meaning they can easily get a Class A commercial driver’s license. Additionally, those who have been trained to handle and transport hazardous chemicals and fuel and easily get HazMat endorsement.
https://youtu.be/FwyWE-Rb3BY?si=3v0ufqLEma9Ag5vl
Tips For Using Biodiesel To Heat Your Home
According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), biodiesel is a renewable fuel derived from animal fats and vegetable oils. In the US, for instance, soybean oil is by far the biggest source of biodiesel, accounting for nearly 55% of the total feedstock in 2016, according to the EIA. The remaining portion of the aforementioned total feedstock consisted of canola and corn oil, recycled grease, and total feedstock.¹
Because biodiesel is a renewable fuel, it is environmentally friendly, especially when compared to fossil fuels. For instance, biodiesel is a clean-burning fuel, meaning it produces fewer emissions compared to fossil fuels. One recent study found that when used in an oil furnace, the B20 biodiesel blend produces 20% fewer particulate and NOx emissions than diesel fuel. With that in mind, here is some more information about fuel-grade biodiesel.
Heating Biodiesel Blends
Similar to fossil fuel, biodiesel has to be refined before it can be used as furnace oil. Pure biodiesel (B100) is converted to fuel-grade biodiesel through a chemical process called transesterification, which removes the glycerin. At this point, it is worth noting that pure biodiesel tends to solidify (gel) when exposed to relatively low temperatures. The exact solidification temperature depends on the raw material.
For instance, pure biodiesel fuel derived from canola seed oil and palm oil begins to gel at about −10 °C and 13 °C, respectively. To prevent congealing, heating fuel suppliers typically blend biodiesel with either heating oil or diesel fuel. This means that heating biodiesel comes in different blends including B3 and B20, where the number indicates the percentage of biodiesel blend contained in the fuel mixture. For instance, B3 means 3% percent biodiesel and 97% diesel fuel or heating oil. Similarly, B20 means 20% biodiesel and 80% diesel fuel or heating oil. At this point, it is worth noting that ASTM 396 classifies biodiesel-heating oil fuel blends of up to 5% biodiesel as pure petroleum heating oil.
Transitioning from Heating Oil To Biodiesel
The combustion properties of biodiesel fuel are similar to those of diesel fuel, meaning you can use the former in your oil furnace without making any changes to your furnace. However, before you transition from heating oil to biodiesel or a biodiesel blend, call a heating professional to ensure your burner pump seals are in pristine condition. This is important because biodiesel has stronger solvent properties than furnace heating oil. It will cause the seals to corrode much faster.
On the positive side, biodiesel will help clean up the sludge from oil storage tanks. Ideally, you should store biodiesel either in an underground or indoor storage tank to prevent congealing. Of course, you can also use oil heaters to prevent congealing. For the best results, ensure the transition is gradual. Be sure to talk to a professional heating oil supplier, like Townsend Energy, to know what options work best for your home.
Conclusion
Obtained from vegetable oil or animal fat, biodiesel is a clean-burning fuel that you can use in your oil furnace. Biodiesel is available in different blends including B2, B5, B10, and B20.
Townsend Energy offers fuel oil delivery services to residential and commercial customers. We offer fast service and fuel that is of high quality. You can choose from our different delivery plans and financing options. When you need HVAC services, such as a furnace tune-up or a heating system repair, you can count on us to do an excellent job.
Be sure to contact us to find out more about what Townsend Energy can do for you.
https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/print.php?page=biofuel_biodiesel_home
Jun 1, 2018 Townsend Energy Participates In Energy Meeting In Washington DC