Blogs from December, 2019

How Much Does It Cost to Install A New Generac Standby Generator?

Below, we discuss some of the factors that contribute to the cost of a Generac whole-house generator installation.

Whole-House Generator Size & Power Output

A generator’s electrical kilowatt (kW) capacity tells you the number of watts of power that it can deliver. Therefore, you will need to invest in a Generac generator that is sized appropriately.

Small generators deliver between 7,000 (7 kW) and 10,000 (kW) kilowatts. These units are typically selected when you need to sustain just a few electrical items in the home during a power outage.

Midsize generators deliver in the range of 12,000 (12 kW) and 20,000 (20 kW) kilowatts. Heating and air conditioning draw more power. Therefore, a midsize option might be sufficient as long as the complete home doesn’t need electricity during a power failure. A midsize is suitable for a 2500 square-foot home or one that is smaller.

Large generators deliver in the range of 22,000 (22 kW) and 45,000 (45 kW) kilowatts. This is the best choice for powering up an entire home. It should cover heating systems and central air conditioners. It can also power medical equipment, lighting, and remaining items in your home that use power. Larger homes that are more than 2500 square feet benefit the most from having a whole house generator installation. There are options though if you want a partial connection.

However, the best way to approach finding the best generator for your home is to consult with an expert from Townsend Energy. We can find the best size generator for your home to meet all of your needs.

Determine Your Power Needs During A Power Outage

Here are some common circuits you might consider when thinking of purchasing a Generac generator and having it installed.

• Gas heater’s blower fan
• Home security system
• Downstairs lighting and electrical outlets
• Central air conditioning for the downstairs area
• Device for opening the garage door
• Kitchen refrigerator and other kitchen outlets for dishwasher, microwave, oven, and more
• Laundry room appliances

It can be extremely challenging to figure out how many kilowatts your appliances use daily. Although you can look at your electricity statement, some appliances pull more power than others. To be safe, it’s best to consult with an expert generator installation company that is licensed and insured. This way, you won’t have to guess at it and risk making costly mistakes in miscalculations.

What you can do that will be very helpful is to indicate which items you absolutely must have running during a power outage situation. Only then can a specialist give you realistic options to meet your needs. Additionally, electricity runs with live currents, so never try to install a standby generator yourself. If you do, you risk an injury that can be fatal.

Generac Generator Cost Considerations

After determining the kW usage, the installation of a standby generator involves:

• Equipment choice and requirements for the installation.
• Preparation of the installation site and the location of the closest electrical power panel and meter.
• Sub-panel installation. You can opt to have an automatic transfer switch that turns on the generator immediately after the original source of power shuts down.
• The development of an outlined plan that includes a disconnection list of electronic devices and appliances affected. NOTE: Since energy surges occur during power outages, you’ll need to know which items must be unplugged before the generator kicks in. The expert installer will be able to provide this information. However, televisions and computers are mostly affected.
• Concrete pouring area and properly sized flat space.
• Fuel tank installation for the generator
• Adherence to code regulations for the lighting and wiring for the generator installation process. Based on the generator installation company’s policy, the cost is calculated either by the square footage or by the hour.

The total cost of a standby generator will range from $8,000 to $15,000 (or more) for most Townsend Energy clients, depending on individual circumstances, with the average job falling into the $12,000-$13,000 range. Also, as mentioned above, many factors determine the price. Therefore, to accurately determine the installation cost, be sure to schedule a free Generac generator consultation.

An ongoing source of power is something many take for granted until it fails. Avoid letting power outages place your lifestyle on hold. The best way to take control is to adopt a mindset of prevention, preparation, and take action. At Townsend Energy, we’re here to help. Contact one of our licensed, friendly, and knowledgeable experts today to schedule your complimentary assessment.

Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your Standby Generator Requirements

Townsend Energy is a leading provider in generator installation services throughout New England. Not only do we offer backup generator installation, but also maintenance, replacement, and repair services. We only employ top quality service contractors who are well trained in the most modern methods of HVAC and generator techniques. Therefore, call or contact us online today for more information on a Townsend Energy generator installation in your home today.

Contact us today to have all of your generator questions answered by the experts in the industry.

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

Dec 8, 2019 Generac Generator: Costs To Install A Standby Generator

The Many Uses Of Propane In Homes

In this article, we discuss the many uses of propane gas in residential applications.

Propane Heating Equipment

Home heating is crucial during the coldest months of the year. Many homes depend on electricity, but this can prove to be an expensive way to heat your home. Propane is an excellent alternative since propane prices per gallon are very affordable. It can also heat things faster than electricity. You don’t need to wait too long to get relief from the cold.

Cooking With Propane Gas

Electric stoves and ovens have their place, but a lot of people prefer propane for their cooking. Ovens can heat up faster and cooktops can enjoy better temperature control. These are important if you want to prepare your meals the right way. For example, roasted meats will only come out with the right blend of tenderness and golden brown exterior if you set them at the correct temperature. Gas-dependent cooking appliances also tend to spread the heat more evenly across the food. Essentially, you will be more confident about your food preparation.

Backup Generators Powered By Propane

Depending solely on electricity can lead to vulnerability during emergencies. Propane can be used not only for home heating but also for back-up power. If you have a standby generator powered by propane, then sudden blackouts and weather disturbances will not be a problem for you. You should be able to turn the lights on and use vital appliances, depending on your generator size. You can use your HVAC system, charge your phones, use the internet, and watch TV. Life can go on despite the chaos outside.

Propane Pool Heaters

If you live in a cold area, then using the swimming pool can be daunting unless you install a pool heater. Choose propane for this task as it can get the job done faster than electric pool heaters. You will be able to take a dip almost right away instead of waiting for an hour or more for the pool to get up to a comfortable temperature. The energy consumed will also be less because of propane’s higher efficiency. The cost of heating the pool will not be as much of a concern so you can concentrate on enjoying your pool.

Spa/Hot Tub

Working all day can be stressful. Once you come home, it would be nice to pamper yourself and relax in a spa or hot tub. Use a propane heater for this and avail of the benefits already stated above: faster heating, greater efficiency, and lower cost. Since you don’t have to be guilty about spending too much on heating, you can enjoy yourself in the tub even more. Stay for however long you like.

Outdoor Propane Grill

Outdoor grilling is a popular activity in the summer. Families and friends gather for a cookout of their favorites like burgers, barbecues, and more. Indeed, enthusiasts might grill all-year long, especially if they have a propane system. These are fast cookers so you can finish preparing more meals with less time. They are also easy to use since monitoring and adjustment can be done on the fly. These propane grills produce less smoke than charcoal grills. The fuel does not affect the flavor. They can use exchange cylinders or get fuel from the main propane supply.

Indoor/Outdoor Propane Fireplaces

Although wood fireplaces are a classic, they can be inconvenient to use and maintain. Starting and controlling a fire isn’t always easy. The smoke can also turn people off, particularly when they have to clean the soot that’s stuck all around. Propane fireplaces can be lighted with the push of a button so turn it on or off whenever you want. Operating it will be cheap and efficient. Maintenance is a breeze as it does not require frequent cleaning. You can install it anywhere inside or outside the house.

Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your Propane Needs

The applications of propane get longer every year. With its tremendous benefits, there is every reason to use it as much as possible. Ask a propane expert today to learn how you can utilize it in your own home.

Townsend Energy offers superior propane deliveries throughout New England. Our propane delivery services are always fast and reliable. We offer various propane delivery plans and propane financing options. This way, you can customize your propane deliveries to meet your needs. By ordering your fuel from us, you can expect to pay the best propane prices in all of New England.

Have a propane heating system? Townsend Energy also offers superior HVAC services. Some of our heating and cooling services include tune-ups, repairs, replacements and more. Our NATE certified technicians have the experience to provide your home with a higher level of comfort, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and more. Call today to find out what Townsend Energy can do for you!

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

Dec 8, 2019 What Do You Use Propane For?

Why You Need A Whole-House Generator For Your Home

A standby generator can offer several benefits for your home and business, such as:

• Convenience: A generator can supply any structure with power, allowing the use of essential systems such as heating, air conditioning, refrigerator, freezer, water treatment, etc. You can power up your laptops, gadgets, desktop computers, TVs, modems, and security systems without any problems as long as you have a standby generator available. You also need a generator that runs reliably and is durable enough for the long haul. Generac generators, for example, can provide power for residential or commercial structures continuously for prolonged periods when needed.
• Safety: A generator can provide power when and where it is required. You can continue using systems that rely on electric power without interruption, including security systems, medical devices, and food preservers. Generators also eliminate the need to use gas lamps or candles that could increase the risk of fire.
• Uninterrupted Service: A generator allows any business to provide continued service to their clients regardless of the availability of power from the main grid. As such, you can continue to receive clients and keep your business open.

(978) 717-0490">Call Today: (978) 717-0490

How To Choose The Right Standby Generator

1. Choose Your Preferred Fuel

Standby generators with a maximum capacity of 22 kW run on liquid propane or natural gas. Some generators use diesel, but these are typically whole house units. The type of fuel that a generator uses is essential because it will affect your environment setup. If you prefer a generator that runs on diesel or liquid propane, for example, you will need to install tanks for storing fuel. For those who choose a natural gas-powered generator, you will have to ensure that you have properly-sized gas lines and meters installed. If you need more clarification on this matter, do not hesitate to consult with a professional technician, such as Townsend Energy.

2. Consider How Much Backup Power You Need

Generators come in many sizes and capacities. The type you choose should provide sufficient power for your needs. First, determine the kind of electrical appliances and equipment that must stay operational during a power outage. Some structures, for example, will only require power for lights and a few gadgets. However, others may need to keep larger equipment powered up. Generac’s Guardian Series, for example, offers a number of heavy-duty options from 8,000 watts to 45,000 watts – enough wattage to power up several large appliances. The generators under this series can run on natural gas or liquid propane.

When it comes to generator power, consider the following:

Standby Generator Size

Size refers to the capacity of a generator unit. The bigger your power needs, the larger the sizing of the generator. If you plan to run electrical appliances such as freezers and air conditioning, for example, you should choose a generator with a higher sizing, which is measured in kWs or kilowatts. To learn how to determine the sizing of your generator, Generac has a handy sizing calculator on their website that you can use. Also, you can consult with the experts at Townsend Energy for more information.

Backup Generator Power Rating

The power rating is indicated as kW. This refers to the electrical power output of the generator. Essentially, it is the power that a unit is capable of producing. The power rating of the unit you should choose will depend on how much power you need for your home or office. If your demand is higher, you should choose a unit with a higher power rating. The generator’s power rating will also have to comply with certain code requirements. If your building requires power for critical applications such as for running medical equipment, for example, make sure the generator type you choose complies with existing codes.

3. Determine The Location Of The Backup Power Generator

In general, a generator unit should be installed close to the fuel supply and the transfer switch. It must also be readily accessible for use, repair, and maintenance. Note that there are code requirements that must be complied with if you choose outdoor or rooftop generators for safety purposes. If you choose an indoor installation, you also need to comply with requirements for a number of issues, such as ventilation, fuel supply, and safety from combustion.

For an outdoor installation, you may have to meet certain enclosure requirements. If you live in close proximity to other houses, you may have to comply with requirements set by local noise ordinances. In many cases, you will have to build an enclosure not just to protect the unit from the weather but also to control the noise it produces.

Call Townsend Energy To Schedule A Free Generator Consultation

Townsend Energy is a leading provider in generator installation services throughout New England. Not only do we offer backup generator installation, but also maintenance, replacement, and repair services. We only employ top quality service contractors who are well trained in the most modern methods of HVAC and generator techniques. Call or contact us online today for more information on a Townsend Energy generator installation in your home today.

Contact us today to have all of your generator questions answered by the experts in the industry.

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

Dec 5, 2019 Residential Generac Generators: Buying Tips

Emergency Preparation Tips: How A Standby Generator Can Help

Power outages are fairly common during an emergency. Power is often cut off due to damage to the grid. Sometimes, it is deliberately cut off to prevent electrical accidents and injuries. In some cases, power outages can last for extended periods. This severely curtails our ability to function normally and negatively impacts our comfort. A standby generator can provide the power necessary to support several requirements necessary for safety and survival. In this article, we discuss several of the advantages that come with having a standby generator during an emergency.

Provide Power During Extreme Weather

Weather disasters such as tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards, and ice storms often bring flooding and prolonged power outages. Without backup power, the residents of a building will have no access to light, heating, or air conditioning. There would be no way to power lights and appliances. You will also have no source of power for essential gadgets such as phones and computers. In an emergency, this can present many challenges. There would be no way to heat food or ensure reliable communication. Homes that rely on electric-powered security may also be left vulnerable during prolonged power outages without access to a standby generator.

Provide Power For Medical Equipment

Homes and facilities where the use of electric-powered medical equipment is necessary will benefit immensely from a standby generator. Many types of medical devices that assist in breathing, pain management, monitoring of one’s vitals, and the like need a power source to work. Should a prolonged power outage occur, the health condition of the people who require support from these devices could be compromised. Having a source of power from a whole house generator will keep these devices going. This ensures that the patient has the medical support he/she needs.

Provide Power For Work-Related Activities

Since many homes have Internet access, people can conveniently work from home. A power outage eliminates access to the Internet since modems and routers run on electrical power. With a backup or whole house generator, there is always a reliable source of power for computers, printers, and other accessories that make working from home possible. A power outage does not have to eliminate your convenience and access to facilities that allow you to do your job.

Keep Food Preserved

A whole house generator can keep large appliances such as chillers, refrigerators, and freezers going. Without access to power, prolonged outages could cause perishable food such as meat, fish, poultry, dairy, vegetables, and fruits to go bad. The last thing anyone would want to happen is to run out of food to eat because their supplies could not be preserved. A home that can run on a generator when supply from the grid is unreliable will be assured that food will be available, and it will be safe to eat.

Use Of HVAC System

Whole house generators provide enough power supply to allow you to run your HVAC system. During an emergency, when there is a severe lack of support services, including electricity, your HVAC system will still be able to provide warmth or cooling comfort, depending on weather conditions. An operational HVAC system not only provides you with a comfortable indoor environment, but it also cleans your indoor air via the air filters. Therefore, by running the HVAC system during a power outage, you can keep the level of indoor pollutants low. Furthermore, if it is the peak of the summer or winter, having a functional HVAC system is crucial for your safety during these extreme weather conditions.

Keep Your Home And Environment Safe

A backup or whole house generator can provide warmth and illumination during an emergency. You can keep lights on and appliances running with an uninterrupted power supply. Since the generator connects to the electrical system of the house, you can turn it on and use it until your home receives a steady source of power from the grid. As such, a standby generator can protect the home from dangerous power surges and voltage fluctuations that frequently occur during emergencies.

Call Townsend Energy To Schedule A Free Generator Consultation

Townsend Energy is a leading provider in generator installation services throughout New England. Not only do we offer backup generator installation, but also maintenance, replacement, and repair services. We only employ top quality service contractors who are well trained in the most modern methods of HVAC and generator techniques. Call or contact us online today for more information on a Townsend Energy generator installation in your home today.

Contact us today to have all of your generator questions answered by the experts in the industry.

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

Dec 5, 2019 Emergency Preparation Tips All Homeowners Should Be Aware Of

What Homeowners Need To Know About Boiler Heating Systems

In this article, we discuss some of the common signs that indicate the need for a boiler replacement. Also, we will cover some of the advantages that come with a boiler replacement. Lastly, we discuss why you should consider investing in a Buderus boiler upgrade for your home.

Signs You Should Upgrade Your Boiler

You should hire a reliable HVAC professional to inspect your boiler regularly. During the inspection, they can inform you of your boiler’s condition. Also, be sure to look for the following signs:

• Increased Energy Costs: Increased costs of energy show that the boiler is old, and its maintenance is getting costly. When you are spending more to service it, it means that your boiler has become inefficient. Also, an old boiler will require more energy to keep your home comfortable. Thus, an upgrade is necessary.
• Age: A boiler tends to last 15 years or so. If your boiler is close to or past this timeframe, then it is time to start shopping for a new unit.
• Increase In Failure Frequency: If the unit fails often, then you are spending a lot on boiler repairs instead of investing your money into a new, energy-efficient system. Also, if your boiler requires a significant overhaul, then it is time for a boiler upgrade.
• Boiler Leakages: A leaking unit is due for repairs. Many factors cause boiler leaks. Depending on your particular situation, a leaking boiler may indicate the need for a replacement.
• Discoloration: When the fuel is not burning properly, it releases carbon monoxide. You can identify this by noticing black soot on your oil boilers of yellow flames on burners. If you notice that your system displays this sign, then turn it off and call Townsend Energy immediately.
• Discomfort In Your Home: If you notice some rooms are too cold or too hot, it is an indicator to pay attention. Fluctuating temperatures from one room to another mean your boiler’s effectiveness has dropped.

Advantages Of A Boiler Upgrade

• Energy Efficiency: Upgrading your boiler will offer you more efficiency. This translates into less fuel consumption and lower home heating costs.
• Improve Property Value: Once you replace your old unit with a new Buderus boiler, the value of your home rises. Besides, it will be safer for your family as possible exposure to poisonous carbon monoxide will be eliminated.
• Save Money: A problematic and old unit consumes more power with less efficiency, thus a loss. You also incur many repair and service costs with your old unit. Once you upgrade to a new boiler, these losses cancel out.
• More Comfort: You can set the precise temperature range in your home. The unit will be efficient whenever it is needed. Your home will have a balanced, even temperature and your comfort levels improve.
• Get A Smaller Unit With Quieter Operations: The Buderus boiler is a modern unit with sophisticated features. You will not worry about space usage, and noises from your old boiler are eliminated.

Why Choose A Buderus Boiler For Your Home?

The following are some excellent points about Buderus boilers. When buying a boiler, you ought to look at the unique aspects making that make the boiler stand out.

• Energy Efficient: Buderus boilers have a three-pass system for increased energy efficiency. Buderus boilers are certified Energy Star, making it authenticly energy efficient.
• Compact Design: The design of Buderus boilers is tremendously advanced to offer positive pressure operations. The sealing is commendable and guarantees your safety. The design also offers customers ease of installation. Besides, its design has handles which makes them convenient in transportation.
• Highly Reliable: With improved features and operations, Buderus boilers do not fail. Given its lifespan, you can be sure the Buderus boilers will serve you without a technical hitch for many years. Cleaning it takes a short time, and it is perfect, which ensures it does not fail at any point due to clogging. This prolongs its reliability in warming your home.
• Great Comfort: It keeps all the unwanted environmental conditions perfectly in check. With elaborate efficiency in burning fuel, it keeps the house warm, which guarantees your comfort.

Above are some of the reasons to choose Buderus boilers, but there are more. You will also get the flexibility of prices and sizes. Your budget will enable you to get an ideal size and model you need.

Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your Home Heating Needs

When your boiler starts to show any of the above signs, then it is time to start saving for its replacement. You should not wait until the unit completely fails as you may lack emergency funds for its replacement. Also, unexpected boiler replacement leads to rushed decisions, which is really not the best way to handle replacing one of the most important appliances of your home. Instead, plan ahead and make your decision wisely.

If you are having issues with your home heating system, be sure to call Townsend Energy right away. Townsend Energy is a reliable, full-service HVAC company in the area. We offer a range of heating and cooling services, including HVAC installations, repairs, tune-ups, and more. We also provide free, in-home estimates. Call Townsend Energy today.

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

Dec 3, 2019 Buderus Boiler Upgrade: What You Need To Know

Buderus Boiler Cost: How Much Are You Looking At?

Buderus boilers are considered one of the most trusted names in the HVAC industry. They are backed by well-thought-of design and function that ensure years of faithful service. They offer consistency, reliability, and efficiency.

With most machinery, you pay for what you get. So, how does this apply to a Buderus boiler cost? This depends on a number of factors, including the type and model of the unit. Also, the complexity of the installation impacts the overall cost. In general, expect a boiler installation cost to range from $4,700 to $11,000 or more, depending upon your home’s characteristics and needs. Again, the actual price could be higher or lower, depending on certain factors.

Types Of Boilers

There are different types of boilers to accommodate different heating needs. These options allow you a great deal of flexibility when choosing which boiler is best for your home.

Experts group boilers into three major categories. These are:

Conventional Boilers

Regular boilers are also called heat-only boilers. These require water storage tanks for hot and cold water. The tanks are often installed in the loft or basement of a home. The boiler itself is connected to the mains from which water is distributed. It is not as popular today as other types of boilers but is still in use.

System Boilers

System boilers are similar to conventional or regular boilers in that they heat the central heating system directly. The hot water that the system produces is then kept in storage cylinders or tanks, which are the
external components of the system. A system boiler connects to the main water supply. Unlike conventional boilers, system types do not require the installation of a water tank in the home loft.

Combination Boilers

Combination Boilers are considered the most efficient and cost-effective type of home boiler system. Combi boilers service both central heating and hot water production. Combi boilers are directly connected to the mains, providing hot water when and where required. They are compact, allowing homeowners to save on space as well.

What Factors Affect The Cost Of A Boiler Installation?

It is not likely that two homes will have the exact same boiler installation cost. This will depend on factors that will influence the total expense. Pinpointing the exact figure is quite difficult because, ultimately, the final cost will be dictated by certain aspects. To give you an idea about what to expect, here are some factors you might want to consider:

• Boiler Size/Capacity: Typically, the installation of larger boilers will come with a higher price tag. Likewise, smaller/lighter boilers may come with a lower charge. An HVAC contractor will use a Manual J load calculation to determine the size that meets your heating requirements.
• Parts/Components: If there are more parts or components that have to be installed along with the boiler unit, the homeowner will have to pay more. If a component has to be sourced elsewhere, it will likely cost more.
• Amount Of Work Required During The Boiler Installation: The more complicated the installation job is, the higher it will cost to be completed. You also have to factor in individual labor costs, depending on your home heating requirements.
• Boiler Installation Location: Installation work in farther and difficult to access locations typically cost more compared to more accessible areas. Workers and delivery vehicles have to travel farther for the job, which will also cost more in terms of time and incidentals.
• Home Layout: If your home layout allows for easy installation, you can expect to pay a lower price tag. If, however, your home layout will require additional manpower and/or construction, the cost will increase.
• Complexity: The complexity of the installation will have a significant impact on how much you will be charged for the installation of a boiler in your home. Other than your home layout and location, the type of region you live in and your environment will also affect how much your HVAC contractor will charge.

How Long Does Buderus Boiler Installation Take?

Keep in mind that boiler installation requires careful, calculated steps. Furthermore, the proper installation of the unit ensures that safety measures are in place. The installation process begins at inspection when technicians from your HVAC contractor visit your home to perform a visual assessment. This is mainly to determine the best location and manner to install the boiler. Also, they calculate your heat load for proper boiler sizing.

Next, the technicians will plan the fitting of the pipes and the removal of your old heating system, if required. In most cases and barring any serious problems or heavy work, the installation of a new boiler system should be completed within a full day.

Why Choose A Buderus Boiler?

Buderus built its reputation by providing innovative solutions and reliable products using the highest quality manufacturing practices. As such, Buderus boilers remain one of the world’s most trusted heating solutions. They not only outlast the most competitive hot water systems, but Buderus boilers also out-perform them.

Call Townsend Energy About Your Home Heating Requirements

The most important things to remember about boiler installation are the safety and comfort of your home. If there are aspects about choosing the perfect boiler that is unclear, don’t hesitate to talk to a reliable HVAC contractor, like Townsend Energy. We will gladly discuss your concerns and provide you with the right approach for your home heating needs.

Townsend Energy is a reliable, full-service HVAC company in the area. We offer affordable heating and cooling tune-ups, repairs, replacements, installations, and more. Our heating system services ensure your system functions reliably while lowering your cost of energy. If you require a boiler upgrade, we can find the most energy-efficient system that will provide you with the warmth and comfort that you deserve. Best of all, we can accomplish this while staying within your budget. Our goal is to provide you with excellent service to ensure your satisfaction. Call Townsend Energy today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Be sure to contact our office today to set up an appointment. Contact us now at (978) 717-0490">(978) 717-0490 to find out more!

Dec 3, 2019 Buderus Boiler Cost: What To Expect