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Best Fall Checklist For Home Maintenance
Fall is highly anticipated by many given that it provides a nice respite from the high temperatures of summer, offers gorgeous foliage, opportunity to carve pumpkins, and time to kick back and enjoy football games.
This season, however, also comes with messy front and backyards, temperatures that are increasingly cold, and many other issues.
People who take the time to prepare the home for the fall months will fare much easier in the colder and increasingly harsher weather. Drafting a fall checklist for home maintenance will expedite these efforts and ensure their success.
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The Autumn Checklist For Home Maintenance
This article will share a variety of highly effective strategies for getting your home fall-ready.
1. Set An Appointment For A Heating System Tune-Up
During the fall and right through winter, temperatures will continue to drop. At one time, it will eventually become necessary to start relying on your heating system for warmth and comfort. You’ll want to make sure that it’s going to be up for this seasonal demand.
Your heating system should receive a professional heating tune-up each year that’s performed by a certified HVAC technician. An HVAC company can thoroughly inspect your home heating equipment, perform any small yet essential repairs, take care of seasonal cleaning, lubricate everything, and perform many other forms of essential maintenance. These services can promote a higher quality of indoor air, improved reliability, and efficient operation overall. Call Townsend Energy to schedule your heater tune-up right now.
Learn More About Our Heating System Maintenance Services2. Set Up Heating Oil Delivery Service
When your home is reliant upon heating oil for fuel, contacting your heating oil supplier as quickly as possible is important. This is key for ensuring that your household is cold weather-ready. Moreover, when you pay for your winter oil supplies before winter or the peak season actually starts, you’ll get much lower prices on this resource. Make sure to call Townsend Energy for details on our oil delivery services, our options in oil delivery, and the various payment plans we provide.
Explore Our Heating Oil Delivery Services3. Increase The Energy-Efficiency Of Your Home By Sealing Cracks And Gaps
Your heating system will work hard all of the time and with very few benefits if the resulting hot air is constantly escaping through cracks and gaps that are around the windows and doors in your home. In fact, these things will make your heater work both harder and longer so that more heating oil is used just to maintain a moderate temperature. This makes it prudent to check these openings for cracks and gaps. You can seal any problems that you find up with foam tape or weather stripping, caulking, film, or other products meant for this purpose. You should also make sure that the insulation in your home has a suitably high r-value, and that you have plenty of it.
5. Check Batteries Of Home Alarms: Ensure Safety From Smoke & Carbon Monoxide
In some instances, when a heater malfunctions, it might emit carbon monoxide or considerable amounts of smoke. Both of these issues are dangerous problems that should be detected as quickly as possible. Smoke is an indicator of fire that could result in widespread property damage. Carbon monoxide is a harmful gas that has no color or odor – and inhaling carbon monoxide can prove fatal. As heaters are put back into commission during fall, take the time to check the batteries in all related detection systems and alarms.
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5. Create Safe Winter Conditions On Stairs, Walkways, Driveways, And Other Exterior Areas
Winter is looming right on the horizon. Before winter actually arrives, you should ensure the safety of your entire home. Check all parts of the building structure that are exposed to the natural elements. For instances, stair rails, stairs, driveways, walkways, and any other paved areas should be inspected, readied for the winter, and made accident-free. If there is something broken or neglected, take care of it right away before snow covers it over. Make sure that hand railings are reliable and stable. Your driveways and pathways should be solid and level for easy shoveling and walking.
6. Take Care Of Your Trees And Shrubbery
Trees can look absolutely splendid during the months of fall. As their leaves turn colors and as they undergo other seasonal changes, their aesthetic beauty flourishes. These changes are also a sign of good or bad health in some instances. For example, if leaves start turning colors earlier in the season in normal or if there are numerous dead or dying branches, then plant disease may be an issue. Hire an arborist to help you with this work if you have a lot of shrubbery and trees to attend to.
7. Rake Up Dead Leaves And Other Debris
Leaves start falling from trees pretty early in the fall season and at this time, the sight can fill people with excitement as the eagerly await the cooler season. Letting the leaves accumulate is pretty common given that there are always other chores to deal with. This, however, won’t look as picturesque further down the road when temperatures drop lower and snow starts to fall. This can inhibit growth in the spring. Raking and removing these leaves and other tree-fall is best done right away.
8. All Downspouts And Gutters Need To Be Cleaned
Rather than on the ground, dead leaves, twigs, and other debris can wind up collecting on your rooftop and in your gutters. This is an issue as these things can stop the flow of water. Rotting organic debris also tends to lure in pests. Take the time to regularly clean out your downspouts and gutters, especially if these are in close proximity to any trees. If your gutters are too high, consider hiring a professional to do the job.
(978) 717-0490">Call Today: (978) 717-04909. Complete Repairs At The Property Exterior
While you’re outside, cleaning the gutters, check the roof for evidence of damage. This is something you should also do with the foundation and your siding. The property exterior suffers a tremendous amount of environmental stress and thus, problems can develop out here a lot faster than they often do at the building interior. If any issues are identified, have them taken care of before winter arrives.
Read Our Reviews10. Turn Off All Faucets And Drain Hoses Outside
The final step in your fall home maintenance is to turn off all store hoses and faucets at the building exterior. This will prevent the pipes from freezing. These fixtures should not be getting any water flow given that water expands during freezing which can wreak havoc on the plumbing system. Before the temperatures fall, drain out all water. You should additionally apply spigot covers on all outdoor faucets.
Get In Touch With Townsend Energy For Help With Your Home Comfort
Connect with Townsend Energy for access to reliable services in home comfort. We provide an extensive suite of HVAC solutions like furnace tune-ups and repairs, heater installations, and many others. Our licensed technicians have plenty of experience in improving the efficiency and performance of home heating equipment.
You should also check out our heating oil delivery services. Our prices on fuel oil are competitive and our delivery services are both reliable and fast. We offer payment plans and delivery options to suit every household and budget. This means that you can streamline your oil delivery service to perfectly meet your requirements. Set up an appointment now by calling Townsend Energy today.
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Best Fall Checklist For Home Maintenance For The Upcoming Season
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Top 5 Reasons To Have An Annual Furnace Tune-Up
It is very important to make sure that your furnace gets an annual furnace tune-up. This can help to lengthen the lifetime of the furnace. Having a furnace that functions well means that you will be able to experience the safety and comfort that is essential during those cold months. Apart from ensuring that the equipment lasts longer, servicing it has other important advantages as well.
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Top 5 Reasons To Have An Annual Furnace Tune-Up
Below are five reasons you should consider servicing your furnace today.
Why Is Servicing The Furnace Important?
A heater tune-up has the added advantage of enhancing the general safety and effectiveness of the system; this is whether you own an oil furnace or a gas furnace. You will not have to worry about the performance of the heater every time you turn it on. Furthermore, you can also be assured that there won’t be any safety or health problems.
You will also find that when you purchase the system it will come with a standard warranty. It is usually a requirement of such a warranty that you get the furnace serviced annually. A warranty is basically an agreement that guarantees replacement and repair costs are covered in the event that you have a problem with your furnace.
Also, if you make it a point that you maintain the furnace well including having annual inspections and servicing, you will be in a much better position to assign blame to the manufacturer should any problems arise with the contraption. This means that if any fault develops with the furnace before its anticipated duration, you can simply take it back to the manufacturer, who will either repair it or replace it.
(978) 717-0490">Call Today: (978) 717-0490Pre-Emptive Furnace Maintenance
A specialized HVAC service provider usually takes a number of steps when servicing the furnace. The technician will begin by conducting a comprehensive inspection in order to know more about every component of the furnace. After inspecting it, he will be in a position to replace any parts that are worn out or damaged. It is also their responsibility to change HVAC air filters and to do whatever else is necessary to ensure that the system will function at optimum levels.
The technician will also make a record of each maintenance service and this record can be given to the manufacturer of the furnace. This record is important in the event that you find yourself in a situation where you want to make a warranty request.
How often the furnace is used usually determines how often the system should be serviced. Therefore, the more you use it the more services should be performed. Apart from that, you will have to take into account the maintenance requirements as per the warranty agreement.
Basically, most furnaces have a requirement that they have to be serviced annually. The ideal time to have the service done would be early fall because it will be in perfect shape when you finally use it during the cold winter months.
Is Servicing Your Furnace Really Worth It?
Most homeowners can agree that home maintenance in general can be quite overwhelming especially if you are always busy. There is always something that needs to be maintained, fixed, or replaced. Unfortunately, there are certain things on your to-do list that cannot be ignored. One of them is servicing your furnace. This is especially true if you are someone who lives in an area that experiences very cold weather. When it comes to a furnace tune-up, although, it might seem like you are spending unnecessarily, you will realize that by scheduling regular maintenance, you will actually be saving a considerable amount of cash over a period of time. At the end of the day, regular service is cheaper when compared to replacing or repairing the system which was not being maintained well. Below are five advantages of an annual furnace tune-up:
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1. Decreased Utility Costs
Every time your furnace is serviced, there will be a substantial decrease in the costs of heating your house. The reason for this is that when the technician services the heating system, he makes sure that it continues to function in the same manner it did the day it was installed. As such, when it’s cold, you will be using less energy to keep warm. Added to that, there will be a substantially lower carbon footprint.
2. You Don’t Have To Replace Your Heating System
We all want to get full value from the things we buy, and that includes our heating systems. In order to ensure that you have a furnace that lasts for a reasonably long time, frequent inspections and tune-ups are necessary. The idea behind these frequent services is that the technician is able to pick up problems whilst they are still minor and can be fixed. There is also the added advantage of cleaning the system of all the dirt and debris.
3. Improved Indoor Air Quality
Most people are also not aware of the fact that having their furnaces serviced frequently results in enhanced indoor air quality. When the filter is replaced, things such as debris and dust will be removed from those hidden interior parts. That means the air that will be coming out of the contraption will be very clean. What that means is that regular maintenance is beneficial for those people who suffer from allergies, asthma, and other respiratory diseases.
4. Stay Current On The State Of Your Heater
Whenever a technician comes over to your house for maintenance purposes, they will also inform you of the latest developments that affect your heating system. Some people simply don’t have the time for gathering such information. It is the responsibility of the HVAC technician to give you an approximation of your heater’s lifespan. This enables homeowners to prepare in advance for the way forward.
(978) 717-0490">Call To Schedule Annual Furnace Maintenance5. Heating Safety Is Key
Saving money is important, but more than that it is crucial to save lives. It is important to note that these systems produce heat by burning fuel; this leads to the production of exhaust fumes. In the event that there is a leak in the exhaust lines, carbon monoxide can be released into your house. So, regular maintenance is key to making sure that all the parts are working efficiently at all times.
What Does The Furnace Tune-Up Involve?
The HVAC experts have an all-inclusive checklist which they use when servicing a particular heater model or make. They normally begin with a total inspection and clean-up of the system. As soon as they are done with the inspection and cleaning, they move on to replace the damaged parts to ensure that the system is functioning well. The expert will also lubricate the contraption for the best performance.
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Contact Townsend Energy For All Your Furnace Needs
Townsend Energy offers services that are dependable and reasonably priced. We have professionally certified HVAC technicians who are there to assist you whenever you require heating system servicing or repair. We guarantee that our professional services will improve the air quality in your house and that your heater will be more energy efficient. A maintenance service will also reduce your home heating costs and comfort.
Contact Townsend Energy now and make an appointment.
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Annual Furnace Tune-Up: Top Benefits From Heater Maintenance
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Ductless Mini-Split Sizing Guide
If you are considering a ductless mini-split installation, selecting the right-sized mini-split unit for your home is one of the most crucial steps. Mini-split systems are one of the most efficient HVAC systems on the market, thanks to inverter technology. This technology allows mini-splits to generate only the necessary amount of cooling or heating to maintain your temperature specifications. Even if mini-splits are equipped with this type of technology, it is still essential that the unit is sized correctly for your home. In this article, we share a ductless mini-split sizing guide to help you out.
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Why Is Proper Ductless Mini-Split Sizing Crucial?
A properly-sized mini-split heat pump is essential for its performance. A system that is correctly sized means that it can efficiently and effectively cool or heat your home. Therefore, you must install a system that has a BTU rating that matches your needs and specifications.
British Thermal Unit
British Thermal Unit, or BTU, is the measurement of thermal energy. It measures the heat needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Therefore, one BTU equals the power to cool or heat one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
In general, the larger the room, the higher the BTU rating your unit will need. A mini-split can have a rating of as low as 6,000 BTUs to as high as 56,000 BTU. When you are choosing a mini-split based on the BTU rating specifications of your home, bear in mind that the units’ heating capacity should be a tad higher than its cooling capacity.
It is also essential to take note that your system should not be too small or too big for the living space you want to heat or cool. Otherwise, there would be unwanted repercussions that will affect your everyday comfort, heating and cooling costs, and your mini-split system’s overall functionality.
(978) 717-0490">Call Today: (978) 717-0490What Happens With An Undersized Mini-Split?
A mini-split that is too small will only lead to an inefficient and uncomfortable home. Your unit will continuously run, but it will not be able to condition the space it needs to effectively. You end up wasting energy as you won’t even fully feel the unit’s cooling or heating power. This inadequate cooling or heating will cause hot or cold spots as the desired temperature won’t reach all sections of the zone.
A ductless mini-split that is too small also tends to work harder and longer to make up for its inadequacy. This will cause your unit to age and wear out faster than it should. In turn, this increases the chances of a mini-split breakdown. Not only that but the longer your mini-split works, the higher your utility bills will get as well.
Bigger Doesn’t Always Mean Better
A bigger mini-split does not necessarily mean that it is a better choice. Firstly, you will spend more when you buy a mini-split that is too large. This basically throws out any energy savings you will be making.
Second, a mini-split that is too large will lead to short cycling. Short cycling is when your system repeatedly turns on and off in a short period. A short cycling unit will lead to faster wear and tear, as well. As a result, your system is likely to experience malfunctions often, and this can lead to premature failure as well.
Lastly, your mini-split also functions as a dehumidifier. Unfortunately, an oversized mini-split that short cycles cannot remove humidity properly. Your home will feel cool, but humid and damp as a result.
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How To Size Your Mini-Split
When selecting a mini-split system for your home, your sizing consideration should include the size of the room for a single-zone application or each room for multi-zone configurations. Your outdoor compressor may have a different but complementary size from each indoor unit installed in various zones throughout your home. Individual rooms in your home most likely have different sizes. Therefore, the BTU rating of each indoor air handler will also vary.
Keep in mind that it is always best to have a professional help you determine the correct mini-split size you need. An expert technician may conduct the following steps to get a general estimate of the right mini-split sizing.
- Determine the square foot of the rooms. A professional will measure the length by the width and multiply them. For example, if the room is 30 feet long by 40 feet wide, then it would be 30 x 40 = 1,200 square feet.
- To get the approximate BTU rating, the technician will multiply the square footage of the room by 25. So if you have 1,200 square feet and you multiply that to 25, you get 30,000 BTUs.
The calculation above works for rooms that have a rectangular shape. Other standard room shapes include triangular and circular. A professional can help you regardless of what room shape you have. Therefore, it is always a good idea to contact your local trusted technician to help you determine the ductless mini-split sizing appropriate for all the rooms in your home.
Below is an approximate BTU sizing chart for mini-split systems:
Ductless BTU Sizing Chart
Read Our ReviewsFactors That Affect The Ductless Sizing
Keep in mind that although room size can significantly affect the BTU capacity you need, it is not the only factor at play. The environmental conditions and other external factors also play a huge role in determining the proper size of the mini-split you need.
Climate
The climate outside can affect the temperature indoors. Depending on whether you live on hotter or colder weather, your mini-split can be sized differently because of it. For instance, if you live in a place that has temperatures that frequently exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, then the BTU rating of the system you will purchase should increase by at least 30 percent.
Age And Insulation
The age of your home is a factor because newer homes typically have better insulation than older ones. This is due to the revised building codes. If you live in an older home that has poor insulation, then it requires more power to cool or heat. The BTU rating needs to be increased by at least 30 percent so that you can be comfortable. Whereas, if you have a new home with good insulation, then it requires fewer BTUs.
(978) 717-0490">Call To Learn More About Ductless Heat PumpsCeiling Height
High ceilings affect the room size as they make the rooms larger. The standard ceiling height of most homes is eight feet. If your ceilings are higher than that, then it is recommended that you increase the BTU capacity of the mini-split you will purchase by at least 20 percent.
Other Factors
A few of the other factors that affect the BTU load calculation of your home include:
- Windows And Doors: The number of windows and doors in the zone you are placing your mini-split in affects the BTU load as these are not insulated. Therefore, the cracks and small gaps in your doors and windows can leak air.
- Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight heats the room. Determine how much direct sunlight a room gets as it can affect the size of the mini-split the room needs.
- Kitchen: If the room you want to put the mini-split unit in is a kitchen or a room close to the kitchen, then you might need a bigger sized mini-split so that you can adequately cool it. This is because kitchens are open spaces and have appliances that are sources of heat like ovens and stoves.
- Number Of Occupants: People generate heat and can affect the size of the mini-split you need. Therefore, you need to take note of the usual number of occupants in the room you are putting the equipment in.
- Lightbulbs: Lightbulbs also generate heat, and some types of bulbs create more heat than others. Therefore, the size of the unit is affected if a room has a lot of lightbulbs.
- Floor Type: A floor that is carpeted is more insulated than one that is just hardwood. This could, therefore, affect the mini-split size that the room requires.
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Conclusion
Finding the correct size of the mini-split your living space needs is done via a process called load calculation. This calculation determines the right amount of warm or cold air that is required to ensure that the area is at a constant and comfortable temperature.
There are a lot of load calculators available on the internet. However, these can lead to miscalculations. If you want a more precise sizing calculation, it is best to consult a professional HVAC contractor. Your qualified local ductless technician is guaranteed to give you a complete and professional sizing for your space and help you get the exact product your home needs.
Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your Home Heating And Cooling Needs
If you are ready to switch to a ductless HVAC system or have more questions, call Townsend Energy today. Our experienced and certified technicians will discuss your needs and requirements to help you find the best ductless HVAC system for you.
Townsend Energy is a full-service HVAC company that services residential and commercial properties throughout New England. We offer a range of heating and cooling services, including HVAC installations, repairs, tune-ups, and more. Our experienced, NATE certified professionals can find the best home heating and cooling solutions for your home while working with your budget. We aim to improve your home’s level of energy efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality. We back our work by a warranty to ensure your satisfaction. Also, we provide free, in-home estimates. Call Townsend Energy today.
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Ductless Mini-Split Sizing Guide
