Blogs from May, 2019

Why You Should Schedule Air Conditioner Maintenance

Every machine needs constant care to ensure excellent performance for as long as possible. Air conditioners are no exception.

These cooling systems will benefit immensely from regular maintenance work. Some tasks may be carried out by homeowners. However, you should give the more complex ones to HVAC experts.

Technicians should look at your air conditioner at least once a year for a thorough inspection, cleaning, lubrication, testing, and other jobs.

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Air Conditioner Tune-up Boxford MA: The Importance Of Air Conditioner Maintenance

Many advantages stem from an annual air conditioner tune-up. With periodic maintenance, owners will be able to enjoy the following:

1. Minimized HVAC Repair Expenses

You can avoid common problems by doing everything necessary to keep the air conditioning unit operating at its best. Some of the tasks included in a maintenance check include:

• Air filter replacements
• The cleaning of your system
• The repair of faulty wires
• And more

Also, anything that could potentially cause issues in the future will be dealt with right away. Without regular maintenance, people will end up paying exorbitant amounts for air conditioner repairs later on. By being proactive, you can minimize system-related expenses.

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2. Prolonged Cooling System Lifespan

Since maintenance prevents units from breaking down, they tend to last for a more extended period compared to neglected air conditioners. The cost of a new cooling system is quite high, so it is in the best interest of homeowners to keep their existing units going for as long as possible. Overall, well-maintained A/Cs last a lot longer than neglected ones.

3. Lower Energy Bills For Your Boxford MA Home

Until a replacement is required, maintenance can help you keep your energy costs low. It prevents airflow from being blocked at key areas. An obstruction of airflow causes a rise in monthly energy bills. In the worst cases, it becomes impractical to keep the aging system running as the bills keep soaring to unmanageable levels.

Consider annual professional maintenance as a small investment to save money in the long term.

4. Increased Indoor Air Quality

Most homeowners will have a limited ability to clean the air conditioning system. The exterior should be easy to wipe down but the inside of the equipment and the ducts are much harder to reach. Without professional help, dirt and dust can pile up inside the system. Indoor air quality will be compromised. Unwanted microorganisms can multiply inside the unit and wreak havoc on the residents.

Be sure to schedule periodic maintenance work for the sake of your family’s health. A clean cooling system is particularly important for those with respiratory ailments such as asthma and similar conditions.

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5. Safe Usage Of Air Conditioner

Air conditioners have electrical components that can develop issues over time. If left unchecked, then these could become safety hazards inside the home. These are not always obvious unless an HVAC technician performs a thorough checkup during maintenance visits. If you would like to have peace of mind, then regular service is a must.

6. Maintain High Levels Of Comfort

A well-tuned air conditioner will keep the family comfortable throughout the year, especially during the hottest months. The unit will perform as it should with no sudden failures or noises that would bother the household. The level of cooling will always be enough to fight off the summer heat. There will be no cause for frustration despite the rising outdoor temperature. The A/C will remain a reliable partner in creating an ideal indoor environment.

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It is vital to look for a reliable HVAC contractor for annual maintenance work. Schedule this during spring while conditions are mild and technicians are not busy with other service calls.

Get in touch with Townsend Energy now for trusted heating and cooling services.

Our technicians have the knowledge and experience to identify your system’s needs for increased efficiency and comfort. We provide superior HVAC solutions at reasonable prices including HVAC repairs, installations, and system tune-ups. Contact Townsend Energy today to set up an appointment for your home. We offer free, in-home consultations. Call now!

Some of the areas that we service include Boxford, Georgetown, Hathorne, Middleton and these zip codes 01921, 01833, 01937, 01949 as well as all surrounding areas in Essex County, Massachusetts.

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Signs You Need An Air Conditioner Repair

Air conditioners are reliable machines, but they can run into some problems as they age. If you feel that something is not quite right, then act on it right away. It will be easier, faster, and cheaper to repair if you resolve the issue earlier. Ask a respected HVAC contractor to check your cooling system.

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Signs You Need To Call For Air Conditioner Repair Merrimack NH

Knowing what to look for when your air conditioner needs attention is crucial. Below are among the telltale signs that you need an air conditioner repair:

1. Your Air Conditioner Makes Odd Noises

Air conditioners should operate quietly in the background. Although you may hear it hum, the sound tends to be soft and steady, so it won’t distract anyone. You can work in peace and sleep well with the unit turned on. However, in some cases, you may hear odd noises that startle and grab attention. Grinding, buzzing, or rattling sound is not normal and may indicate a problem inside the unit.

2. Water Leaks From Your AC Unit

You should expect some condensation as the moisture in the air can turn to water droplets around the coils. Drain channels are built in to guide the water out of the system to prevent leaks and mold growth. If homeowners see water leaks, then this may indicate blockages that require immediate cleaning. Do not let it persist as the leakage can worsen over time and may affect the house interiors.

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3. Foul Smells Coming From Your Air Conditioning Unit

Air may contain impurities that are too small to see for the naked eye. However, our noses will surely smell them if enough of them are present in a room. A large volume of air passes through the cooling system every day. They carry dirt, dust, and microorganisms. The unit’s air filters will not be able to catch them all. If foul smells are developing inside the A/C, then experts may need to perform a thorough cleaning and a complete tune-up.

4. Your Air Conditioner Has Fast Cycles

The unit will turn on and off at fairly regular intervals. This cycling can become more frequent during the hot months as the air conditioner works to keep the room cool despite the scorching heat. However, the cycle should not be so fast that the performance is compromised. If you suspect this, then have a technician take a look at the machine. Perhaps there is a faulty part that needs replacement.

5. High Humidity Levels In Your Home

Although air conditioners are mainly used to regulate temperature, they are also designed to minimize humidity as well. This aspect is an important part of their job as humid spaces can make people feel hot and sticky even if the temperature is already quite low. If they do their job well, then the unit should be able to bring relief at moderate settings. If the moisture levels stay high, then get the unit recalibrated. Consider installing a dehumidifier to help as well.

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6. Your Home Feels Uncomfortable

It can be frustrating to turn on an air conditioner and get no relief. Even after waiting for a long time, the unit still can’t provide enough cooling for the home like it used to. You can perform basic diagnostics to see what’s wrong. Perhaps the thermostat’s settings need to be changed. Maybe the compressor could also be the one to blame. You should also check the air conditioner’s filters to ensure that they are clean. A technician will be able to perform a more thorough inspection if necessary.

7. Your Air Conditioner Has Poor Airflow

If the airflow is not as smooth as it should be, then the efficiency of the unit will go down. Sometimes this is caused by a clogged air filter, for which a replacement is necessary. It could also be a consequence of a broken motor. A ventilator or a zoning system may be considered as well if these solutions make sense for your home.

8. Rising Air Conditioning Energy Bills

Another sign that you cannot ignore is rising energy bills. High cooling costs will hurt your wallet, so acting quickly is advised. Cooling systems consume more energy than other household appliances, so they are often the first suspects. This problem may be resolved by replacing broken parts. In aging units, however, it may be prudent to replace the whole system with modern high-efficiency air conditioners.

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Use These Tips While You Wait For Your AC Repair Service

Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your HVAC Needs

When searching for an HVAC company that can perform an AC tune-up, repair, or replacement, contact Townsend Energy. Our highly-trained, highly-qualified HVAC techs understand what it takes to keep your AC running at peak efficiency. When your AC is running as efficiently as possible, it will save you money on cooling costs. Also, it will prevent unnecessary air conditioner repairs and your AC will have the ability to keep your home nice and comfortable.
All of our HVAC services are affordable and we back up our work by guaranteeing your satisfaction. To schedule an appointment, give Townsend Energy a call today.

Some of the areas that we service include Amherst, Bedford, Litchfield, Merrimack and these zip codes 03031, 03110, 03052, 03054 as well as all surrounding areas in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire.

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Why Is My Second Story Hotter Than The Ground Floor?

If the ground floor of your home is cooler than the second story, it is likely that you may feel uncomfortable during the peak of the summer season. You may wonder about what you should do.

Is there a way for your second story to match the temperature of the downstairs area? Do you have to lower your thermostat when you choose to spend time upstairs?

There are a few things you should know about why that part of your home is not cooling as effectively as the ground floor.

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Air Conditioner Repair Winchester MA: Why Is My Second Story Hotter Than The Ground Floor?

In this article, we will discuss some of the reasons why your second story is much hotter than your downstairs. We will also cover some options that are available to remedy this situation.

Rising Hot Air & Attic Insulation

We know that hot air rises, and so the ground floor is easier to cool. Depending on the kind of material your roof is made from, it may also tend to absorb heat and hold on to it. This situation makes matters trickier, and hotter. For this reason, energy experts recommend that the attic is well insulated. Doing so ensures that it stays cool in the summer and warmer in the cold season.
Insulation is calculated in R values, and the higher the value, the better the insulation. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a certain level of insulation for different climate zones. Therefore, you should make sure that you insulate your attic and home according to your climate zone. You could also consider investing in roofing materials that reflect rather than absorb heat.

Keep It Simple: Use Window Treatments

Sometimes the simplest solutions are also the most efficient. Your ground floor may be cooler because of the shade it receives from the surrounding trees on your property. In other words, the amount of direct sunlight that enters this part of your home is usually less than in the second story.

You could consider using blackout curtains and other window treatments that would reduce the amount of sunlight entering the second story of your home. you should also clean the HVAC air filters, and the vents that supply the rooms with cool air regularly.

The HVAC fan should be set on ‘on’ rather than auto. Doing so will make sure that air is constantly circulated inside the house. Good window and door insulation will help keep your home cool in the summer season.

Address The HVAC Unit Cooling Your Home

Your HVAC unit should maintain a comfortable ambient temperature in your home. If the second story of your home is hotter than the ground floor, it would be a good idea to call your HVAC service provider for a consult. They will check the ducts for cuts and leaks. The HVAC technician may recommend a pressure test to identify any leaks.

Your HVAC system is responsible for cooling your house. It is easier and quicker to cool the parts of the home closest to the unit. And thus, it takes longer to cool the second story of your home. To ensure that all parts of the home are cooled efficiently, it is important that the ductwork is well insulated. Also, make sure that you schedule an annual AC tune-up. Regular maintenance by HVAC professionals can help identify and deal with potential problem areas. After all, your cooling system will not be able to perform well if it has an issue that is not addressed. If your ductwork and air conditioner are in good shape, then there are additional methods that an HVAC contractor can recommend. Be sure to ask about an HVAC zoning system or a zoned ductless system for the upstairs portion of your home.

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Replace An Old HVAC Unit When Necessary

Often a home that is not cooling consistently has an HVAC unit that does not suit the size of the building. If the system is too small, it may have to run for long periods, and still not get the job done correctly. If it is too big, it may cycle on and off.

In both cases, you can expect to see an unnecessary rise in energy bills. It would be a good idea to consult with a reliable HVAC company to calculate the cooling requirements of your home to ensure that your HVAC unit is adequate for the job.

Most HVAC units offer homes years of excellent service. If your system is about ten years old, it may be time for an air conditioner replacement. ENERGY STAR states that across the country, nearly half of the HVAC units in use are installed incorrectly. This problem affects energy efficiency and performance. Do choose a trusted and reliable HVAC company that provides reliable professional service.

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Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your Cooling Needs

When searching for an HVAC company that can perform an AC tune-up, repair, or replacement, contact Townsend Energy. Our highly-trained, highly-qualified HVAC techs understand what it takes to keep your AC running at peak efficiency. When your AC is running as efficiently as possible, it will save you money on cooling costs. Also, it will prevent unnecessary air conditioner repairs and your AC will have the ability to keep your home nice and comfortable.

If the upstairs area of your home feels much hotter than the downstairs, be sure to give us a call. We can find the best solutions to fix this type of issue.

All of our HVAC services are affordable and we back up our work by guaranteeing your satisfaction. To schedule an appointment, give Townsend Energy a call today.

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Some of the areas that we service include Arlington, West Medford, Winchester, Woburn and these zip codes 02474, 02156, 01890, 01801 as well as all surrounding areas in Middlesex County, Massachusetts.

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Why Is My House Cooling Unevenly?

Your home is your haven. It is the place where you feel most at ease. How well your air conditioner can cool your home in the summer season often affects your experience and your mood.

If you find a distinct change in the temperature in different parts of the house, you may wonder why your home is being cooled unevenly.

Air Conditioner Repair Peabody MA: Temperature Imbalances

In this article, we will discuss some of the reasons why you may notice a drastic temperature imbalance in your home. We will also discuss what you can do to solve the problem.

Assessing The Problem Of Poor Air Conditioner Performance

Your HVAC unit ensures that your home is kept cool and comfortable when it is warm outside. If your home is cooling unevenly, it is likely that you will want to call your HVAC service provider. However, before you do that, there are some things you should consider.

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Check Your HVAC Air Vents And Air Filters

First and foremost, you need to consider if you may have changed the arrangement of furniture in the rooms. Air vents should be open and not obstructed by furniture. Doing so will ensure that the cool air enters and moves about the room easily. Doors and windows should be well insulated to minimize the loss of cool air.

You will also need to check that the air vents are clean and not blocked with dirt. It is a good idea to vacuum the air vents every month. Doing so will keep the air pathways around the home clean and open. Dirty air filters can also affect the efficiency of your air conditioner’s cooling capacity. Obstructed air filters, in turn, can make your HVAC unit work harder than it needs to, and unnecessarily push up your energy bills. Also, it can lead to unnecessary air conditioner repairs and premature AC replacements.

Schedule A Ductwork Inspection & Cleaning

Cool air travels through the ducts and into your rooms. If the ducts are dirty or have leaks, it can lead to uneven cooling in the rooms. Air ducts need to be cleaned professionally regularly.

Regular inspection of the ducts will help identify any leaks that would need to be sealed off. The ductwork should be insulated to avoid leaks.

When you have the air ducts well maintained, you can expect your home to be cooled efficiently. Also, you can expect an improvement in your indoor air quality.

Be Sure Your HVAC Unit Size Matches Your Home

When folks find that their home is cooling unevenly, they often jump to the conclusion that they need a bigger HVAC system. Contrary to this popular notion, HVAC experts find that usually a home does not cool evenly because the HVAC system is too big for it. In turn, the system does not cycle on for an adequate period to cool all parts of the home effectively.

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Home Extensions Affect Cooling

Sometimes an HVAC unit may require a change because homeowners have taken up extension projects and added additional space that needs to be cooled. If you have added a room or extended the habitable space in the house, you should consult with your HVAC service provider. It would be a good idea to invest in energy efficient doors and windows for the newly constructed part of the home.

You Have An Old Air Conditioner & Require An AC Replacement

Your cooling system may be old and require a change. An easy way to detect this problem is by identifying the rooms that are being cooled well and those that are not.

If the HVAC system is at the end of its lifespan, it is likely that it is unable to maintain air pressure. And so, the rooms closer to it are likely to be cooled well, and the ones located away from it, may not be cooled as efficiently. Finally, it is possible that the unit is not the right size to cater to the cooling needs of your home.

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Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance For Improved Performance

Regular HVAC service visits will ensure that your cooling unit is well maintained and offers optimal performance. Such inspections will also help the technicians detect areas that may require attention. A common reason for uneven cooling of a home is that the refrigerant levels are low. This issue can be easily rectified, and also avoided by timely HVAC maintenance.

Call Townsend Energy For All Your Cooling Needs

When searching for an HVAC company that can perform an AC tune-up, repair, or replacement, contact Townsend Energy. Our highly-trained, highly-qualified HVAC techs understand what it takes to keep your AC running at peak efficiency. When your AC is running as efficiently as possible, it will save you money on cooling costs. Also, it will prevent unnecessary air conditioner repairs and your AC will have the ability to keep your home nice and comfortable.

All of our HVAC services are affordable and we back up our work by guaranteeing your satisfaction. To schedule an appointment, give Townsend Energy a call today.

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Some of the areas that we service include Danvers, Hathorne, Lynnfield, Peabody, Salem and these zip codes 01923, 01937, 01940, 01960, 01970 as well as all surrounding areas in Essex County, Massachusetts.

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New Furnace Fan Efficiency Regulations Go Into Effect July 2019

The latest Department of Energy (DOE) regulation that applies to residential furnace fans will go into effect on July 3, 2019. The new standards will lead to a significant shift in the manufacturing process of fan motors and will eventually mean that all residences in the U.S. will ultimately contain the newer, high-efficiency motors.

The goal of the new regulation is to cut down on domestic energy consumption as well as decrease carbon pollution. On a standard furnace, for example, the new rule will cause a massive reduction in energy consumption.

Because a home’s furnace typically accounts for about 10 percent of its annual power usage, the average homeowner will see about a 5 percent reduction in energy costs annually. That’s the main thrust of the new regulation.

It’s helpful for consumers to understand what a furnace fan does, what the outline of the new rule is, and what the options are concerning furnace upgrades.

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What A Furnace Fan Does

The furnace fan (also called a “blower”) draws hot air in from the furnace and sends it on its way throughout the house. When the heat inside the furnace reaches the proper temperature, the electronic circuit in the unit starts the blower. The furnace fan then drives all that hot air into the venting system and out into the individual rooms of a home.

What Are The New Furnace Fan Regulations?

The U.S. Dept. of Energy sets efficiency standards for all kinds of household appliances, and the furnace is no exception. Before 2014, the DOE had never set any standard that applied to home furnaces. Up to that time, there were no energy efficiency standards for furnace fans in homes.

However, 2014 was the year when the DOE set its first standard for furnace fan efficiency. The rule meant that there would be, by July 3, 2019, a “maximum fan energy rating.” What is a fan energy rating, also known as a FER? In scientific terms, it is the amount of electric power necessary to propel one cubic foot of air each minute. This value, the FER, is expressed in watts divided by cubic-feet-per-minute.

What Is DOE’s Goal With The New Regulations?

Simply put, it is to cut residential energy use (for furnaces only) by 40 percent over the next three decades. Total consumer savings expected to result from the new rules are pegged at about $29 billion for the 30-year period. Another likely result will be the development of high-tech furnace fans and motors that will operate on much less electrical energy.

What Are The Consumer’s Options Concerning Their Furnace?

New government regulations always affect consumers, even if those effects are not noticeable right away. In this case, homeowners will be facing decisions as soon as July 2019.

• Upgrades: For most people who own homes that are equipped with older furnaces, an HVAC upgrade of the unit is the obvious choice. However, because every home is different (regarding size, age, type of furnace, and condition of all the heating components), the smartest thing for homeowners is to seek the professional advice of a reputable HVAC company.
• Diagnosis: Professional HVAC contractors can inspect a furnace and determine the best course of action, in terms of cost savings and complying with the new regulations. Some home heaters might already be energy-efficient enough to meet the DOE’s new regulations. Most won’t.

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Furnace Fan Regulations: What Consumers Need To Know

• The decision to upgrade to a new furnace is almost a necessity if the current unit is old, defective, or otherwise not getting the job done. Some consumers are ready to jump at the lowest-cost solution, which can be a mistake.
• Experienced HVAC technicians might charge more for an installation than inexperienced ones. But unless the installation is done exactly right, there are costly problems down the road. It’s better to hire an experienced HVAC tech and get the job done right, the first time.
• New furnaces are technologically more sophisticated than old ones and include a lot of computerized components. It pays to make sure that the person doing the upgrade and installation is an experienced professional.
• With the newer, more efficient furnaces, many homeowners will be pleasantly surprised to learn that the modern units are smaller than the old ones, and thus take up much less space.

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Conclusion

When you need to hire a reputable HVAC contractor, you should contact Townsend Energy. We provide exceptional service for heating and cooling systems. We handle HVAC installations, repairs, and tune-ups.

All of our HVAC techs are NATE certified. They understand everything there is to know about your heating and cooling system. Our techs have the knowledge and experience to accurately diagnose any issue and give you the best, most practical solution to fix it. We will also do what we can to offer you options that will fit in with your budget.

Our techs are not only knowledgeable, but they are also extremely friendly and professional. Best of all, we guarantee our work. To schedule an appointment, give Townsend Energy a call today. We even offer free estimates.

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