Blogs from December, 2022

What Is A Variable-Speed Furnace?

Variable-speed furnaces, as their name suggests, can run at various speeds to improve indoor air quality. They are able to accomplish this because they have an electronically commutated motor (ECM) blower motor. The ECM, which is essentially a direct current (DC) motor with an integrated magnet rotor and inverter, is what is meant by the phrase “variable speed,” to be more specific. An ECM is able to achieve greater energy efficiency than an alternating current (AC) motor because of this particular setup. ECMs are also often less expensive to run and maintain. Since a variable-speed furnace often has a quicker payback period, ranging anywhere from 4 to 5 years, it will initially cost more than a regular (single-stage) furnace.

Related Article: Why Are My Rooms Heating Unevenly?

How Does a Variable Speed Furnace Work?

A variable-speed furnace fast-tracks and analyzes data from your HVAC system using cutting-edge HVAC technology and then automatically adjusts the speed as needed to maximize your indoor comfort. It controls the quantity of air that circulates in your home, altering the fan speed as necessary to account for things like clogged vents and dirty filters. Furthermore, variable-speed furnaces often require some time to reach full speed, in contrast to standard furnaces. As a result, they operate more quietly and smoothly than conventional furnaces. Furthermore, in sharp contrast to conventional furnaces, which always run at full speed, variable-speed furnaces only work at peak speed when necessary and thus end up using less energy overall.

Differences Between Single-Speed, 2-Stage & Variable-Speed Furnaces

A single-stage furnace always runs at maximum capacity. This means that when trying to reach the thermostat’s temperature setting, it doesn’t take the movement of air inside a home into account. On the other hand, a two-stage furnace has two operating phases—low and high. Essentially, the low phase is an energy-saving mode.

The furnace works to heat your home while in this mode by using the least amount of energy possible. A single-stage furnace, however, always runs at one speed. When your house requires more heat your due to lower exterior temperatures, it consumes more energy than usual. In consequence, this allows it to enter the second stage and start to spread warm air evenly around the house.

A two-stage furnace typically runs at 25% of its maximum capacity. This causes it to operate efficiently and more quietly than a single-stage furnace while also emitting less carbon dioxide.

Variable-speed furnaces provide even greater efficiency and energy savings. Variable-speed furnaces have computerized blower motors (ECMs) that can track and automatically control the airflow in your house. Also, a variable-speed furnace may provide superior energy economy, high levels of indoor comfort, and more reliable heating output thanks to the controlled blower motor.

Related Article: Essential Tips For Surviving A Home Heating Emergency

Variable-Speed Furnaces Enhance Home Efficiency

A variable-speed heating system evenly distributes heat and humidity throughout the house due to its capacity to accurately adjust airflow, which raises the comfort level inside. In comparison to a single-speed furnace, a variable-speed heating system uses around two-thirds less electricity while providing higher performance.

A variable-speed furnace operates more quietly since it typically operates at a low capacity. It progressively increases speed, reducing air fluctuations in the process.

Smart thermostats that automatically regulate the blower motor’s speed are frequently included with variable-speed furnaces. Your smart thermostat can be used to add zoning to an HVAC system, enabling you to heat different areas of your home as necessary without wasting energy or obstructing vents, which would otherwise result in a broken HVAC system.

You can manage the temperature inside your home more effectively and precisely with a variable-speed heating system. The furnace will respond more effectively to fluctuations in temperature within your home with longer running cycles and varied speeds, providing a steady flow of hot air throughout your house. This will lessen the likelihood of warm air accumulating near the ceiling of rooms.

Related Article: What You Can Expect During Your HVAC Installation

Other Advantages of a Variable-Speed Furnace

Some of the other advantages of choosing a variable-speed furnace for your home include the following:

• Clean Indoor Air: A variable-speed heating system will continue to circulate air through your HVAC system as long as the blower motor is active, enabling the air filters to capture more allergens. As a result, the air inside is cleaner and healthier.
• Humidity Control: Variable-speed furnaces offer greater indoor humidity management than single-stage heating systems. More specifically, the removal of humidity from the air is more effectively accomplished by variable-speed heating systems. As a result, they are the best option for reducing issues related to high indoor moisture levels, such as elevated allergen concentrations and the formation of mold and mildew.

Related Article: Lower Your Carbon Footprint With A High-Efficiency Home Heating System

Final Thoughts

A variable-speed furnace, as opposed to a single-speed one, employs a computer to track and analyze the airflow in your home before automatically adjusting the engine speed to maximize indoor comfort. A varying-speed heating system provides greater and more accurate temperature control while being more energy-efficient and ecologically friendly than other conventional heating systems. It is more durable and less expensive to operate and maintain.

Call Townsend Energy For All Your HVAC Needs

Townsend Energy provides top-notch heating and cooling services in Northeastern Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire, and Maine. Our team of trained professionals can give you the best HVAC maintenance, installations, repairs, replacements, and more. All our specialists have all the updated knowledge and expertise needed to effectively maintain your HVAC system.

Townsend Energy offers competitive, honest prices for all of our heating and cooling services. Our services aim to enhance efficiency, increase comfort, and lower your heating and cooling costs. Whether you need an HVAC repair or replacement, we can recommend the best solution for your home while working well within your budget. To ensure your complete satisfaction, all the work we do is backed by a guarantee. Call Townsend Energy right away to book a service appointment. We provide no-cost in-home estimates. Click the link to view our service area.

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Dec 27, 2022 Explore The Variable-Speed Furnace: Efficiency & Comfort

Parts in the Furnace that Need Electricity to Function

• Relays: Relays are switches that control how gas flows and the safety mechanisms, including the fuel regulator and thermocouple.
• Circuit Boards: The circuit board transmits the signals from the thermostats to the furnaces and the other way around.
• Blower Motor: The blower motor uses fans to send warm air through the air ducts. It needs electricity to function.
• Electric Ignition: The electric ignition does not rely on a pilot light to light the burners. In the absence of electricity, this system will not start the furnace.

The components listed above are key to the operation of a gas furnace system. If one part cannot function due to a lack of electricity, the other parts will not work.

Related Article: Why Are My Rooms Heating Unevenly?

How to Keep Your Home Warm without Electricity

You have no control over your gas furnace’s design or its operations. However, your focus will always be on maintaining a safe and warm environment for yourself and your family if the electricity goes out. You will especially worry if there is a snowstorm because the temperatures drop quickly. We have provided some options that you can use to generate and maintain heat, although your gas furnace cannot work.

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Ensure that Cracks, Crevices, & Gaps are Covered

Heated indoor air could escape from cracks or gaps in your house. Similarly, cold air from outside can seep inside. Reduce this seepage with preventative measures such as checking your windows, doors, and any other areas where joints could crack or warp before winter. Weatherproofing tape or chemicals can also seal cracks or holes. Weatherproofing is wise because it holds warm air inside and is cost-effective.

If you are in the winter and the air inside your house is getting cooler, you will need to grab thick materials like towels. Use them to cover areas and spots that have air seepage. You may have to use tape to keep the towels or other items in place.

Related Article: Essential Tips For Surviving A Home Heating Emergency

Bundle Up

Encourage your family to wear multiple layers of clothes in the house. Covering up in several layers insulates your body to keep you warm, which works well if you do not have a heating source. Wear thick enough clothing and choose fabrics that combat the cold, like wool. Use gloves and socks to keep your fingers and toes warm. You should also wear a cap or a thick hat to cover your head.

Keep Windows & Doors Closed

Reduce opening and closing windows and doors in your home. If you must go outside, organize trips to reduce the number of times your family goes through the door.

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Use Candles

Candles provide light when the power is out, but you can also use them as a heating source. Light some candles and place them in groups in different areas in your house. The candles can create heat to keep a small room warm enough.

However, you have to be careful with candles. Ensure that you rest them on a level and stable and level stand. Alternatively, you can rest the candles in bowls containing water. The water will aid you with putting out the flame if the candles burn out. Never place candles close or directly on flammable items such as paper, fabric, or plastic. Also, do not place them near appliances that utilize flammable gas, like stoves and ovens.

If you have children or pets, position the candles in areas that are not easily reachable to avoid your child or cat knocking over a candle. Never let candles burn for a long time while unattended. If you are going to rest or to another area in the home, put out the candles.

Related Article: The Considerable Consequences Of Failing To Change Out Your HVAC Air Filter

Consume Warm Foods & Drinks

During winter, consider a warm meal or a hot beverage such as hot chocolate, tea, or coffee if you need to eat or drink.

Relax or Sleep with Hot Water Bottles

Use hot, not boiling, water in hot water bottles or pack and cover them in a cloth or towel to keep your family warm. Hot water packs and bottles help with your sleeping or keeping your family comfortable.

What Should You Do if Your Furnace Doesn’t Function after a Power Outage

If you start your home’s furnace after an electricity outage and it does not start, check the system. It could be that the gas valve has shut off, or the safety lock may need resetting. A furnace may not start after a power outage for other reasons. Even if you become tempted to test the system, avoid messing with it because you may cause further damage. Instead, shut off the furnace’s power supply and call a certified technician to ensure that your system is okay to operate safely. You will also be able to learn about any other problems that exist and get solutions for them.

Conclusion

Ensure your gas furnace’s reliability during the winter by maintaining the system with cleaning, regular assessments, and maintenance. Consistent checks and repairs keep your system operating optimally and efficiently, especially during the cold season. Always address the issues you are unsure of with the professionals by calling them immediately if there is a problem.

Call Townsend Energy for Your HVAC Needs

Townsend Energy provides heating and cooling services in northeastern Massachusetts, southern New Hampshire, and Maine. We employ top-tier technicians knowledgeable in HVAC installations, repairs, replacements, tune-ups, and more. All our team members possess the experience and knowledge to maintain your HVAC system.

Townsend Energy ensures that you get competitive pricing for cooling and heating services in this area. Our certified and reliable team provides services that enhance your comfort while improving your home’s energy efficiency. You will enjoy lower costs for cooling and heating your house. If your home’s HVAC system requires repair or replacement, we can help you make the best and most affordable decision for your family. We guarantee our work will meet your satisfaction. If you need to make an appointment for service, please call Townsend Energy today. We provide in-home estimates at no cost.

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Dec 19, 2022 Will A Gas Furnace Work Without Electricity?

What an AFUE Rating Is

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How AFUE Is Calculated

Thus, to calculate the AFUE rating of your home heating system, just divide the amount of fuel that it uses by the amount of heat that it provides which is commonly stated in BTUs or British Thermal Units. For instance, if your heater has an AFUE rating of 85 percent, this means that it of all the fuel that it uses, 85 percent produces heat and the remaining 15 percent is lost via chimneys, burners, and other areas of inefficiency.

It’s important to note that AFUE ratings do not account for energy losses resulting from ductwork or HVAC pipes. There can be significant amounts of heat loss. As per the DOE (the U.S. Department of Energy), ductwork in attics, garages, and other areas of the building that aren’t directly serviced by air conditioners or heaters can lose up to 35 percent of the output from furnaces.

Higher AFUE ratings mean higher levels of efficiency, and lower AFUE ratings denote less efficiency. Simply put, units with high AFUE ratings lead to lower spending on fuel. It’s vital to note that electric heat pumps don’t use AFUE in heating mode. They use HSPF (Heating Season Performance Factor) instead. AFUE is currently a national standard of measurement that the DOE uses to determine the combustion efficiency of heating systems.

To promote higher levels of efficiency throughout the nation, the DOE has established minimum AFUE ratings for gas-fired heaters at 80 percent for Southwest locations and 90 percent for the Northern region. Nearly all new furnaces, which are considered high-efficiency heating systems, currently produced have AFUE ratings of 90 percent or higher.

Related Article: Why Are My Rooms Heating Unevenly?

How to Locate a Heater’s AFUE Rating

In an effort to help shoppers make informed buying decisions, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires companies that make furnaces and boilers to publish AFUE ratings right on their products. This information is usually published right on the yellow EnergyGuide label that’s on most electrical appliances. If you cannot find this rating on the EnergyGuide label, get the retailer’s or the manufacturer’s website to locate this information – or your owner’s manual.

Remember that the heating system usually becomes less efficient as time goes on. Thus, the printed AFUE rating from the manufacturer will probably be significantly higher than the current AFUE rating. This is why it is best to have an HVAC technician measure the current, actual AFUE rating of your furnace or boiler for you.

What Is Considered a Good AFUE Rating?

As per the Department of Energy, anything above 80 percent in the Southwest and 90 percent in the Northern regions is considered a good AFUE rating. However, heaters generally become less efficient as they age. In fact, older, under-performing heating systems can have AFUE ratings that are as low as 56 percent to 70 percent.

The DOE standards make it necessary that all new systems have minimum AFUE ratings of 78 percent. Based on their AFUE ratings, heating systems are either recognized as being low-efficiency (AFUE ratings that range between 80 percent and 89 percent) or high-efficiency (AFUE ratings of 90 percent or greater). Given the inefficiencies that heating systems often entail, such as distribution and firing losses, the highest possible AFUE ratings for heaters range between 97 percent and 98.5 percent.

How Homeowners Can Use AFUE Ratings

AFUE ratings measure the efficiency of furnace operation. It is common for furnaces to become less efficient as time goes on, and thus, older furnaces that are not very efficient have lower AFUE ratings. Furnaces sold in the United States before 1975 were not required to have minimum AFUE ratings. The minimum AFUE rating was set by the Department of Energy in 1987 at 78 percent and was raised in 2015 to 80 percent. Furnaces that are 15 or more years old aren’t generally very efficient and tend to cost quite a bit of money to use.

Even replacing one of these older furnaces with a model that’s considered low-efficiency (an AFUE rating of 80 percent) will result in marked energy savings and more affordable home energy bills. For additional savings, you could shop for a furnace that has a higher AFUE rating. The most energy-efficient heating systems currently available have AFUE ratings of 98.5 percent. The AFUE rating of the heating system you choose will affect both your carbon footprint and your home energy bills.

Related Article: Essential Tips For Surviving A Home Heating Emergency

Is Buying a High-Efficiency Furnace a Good Idea?

To answer this, there are several important factors that you need to consider. First, you should think about your location. If you happen to live in an area that’s especially cold, and if you use your furnace frequently, buying a high-efficiency heating system is definitely the best choice because it will result in considerable energy savings as time goes on. High-efficiency furnaces can be about 18.5 percent more efficient than low-efficiency designs. Various research has revealed that the average U.S. household spends about $600 on heating annually. With a high-efficiency heating system, you can save about $111 each year.

Next, you should think about your budget. High-efficiency furnaces cost approximately $1,000 more than mid-efficiency heating systems. However, all furnaces should last between 15 and 20 years. Thus, if you’re saving about $111 on your heating costs each year for 15 years, you’ll ultimately save $1,600. This will allow you to recoup the additional money that you spend on this system.

High AFUE Furnace Features

Furnaces with high AFUE ratings tend to come with some of the latest and most innovative features and technologies for delivering unparalleled efficiency. Among some of the top features available on the systems are:

• Secondary heat exchangers
• Variable-speed blowers
• Improved air filtration
• Direct spark ignitions

Related Article: What You Can Expect During Your HVAC Installation

Conclusion

AFUE measures the efficiency of boilers and furnaces. The DOE used AFUE ratings to determine efficiency standards for these heating systems. Every furnace currently sold in the United States must have an AFUE rating of 80 percent or higher.

Call Townsend Energy for Trusted Home Heating Services

Townsend Energy is one of the top HVAC service providers in the region. Our team is made up of certified technicians with the skills and knowledge to complete all jobs to your satisfaction. You can depend on them for repairs, maintenance, replacements, or installations in northeastern Massachusetts, southern New Hampshire, and Maine.

Give Townsend Energy a call if you need assistance with your heating or cooling system. We offer competitive rates, so you don’t need to go elsewhere. Schedule an appointment today and get a free, in-home estimate. Click the link to view our service area.

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Dec 12, 2022 Explore The AFUE Rating

How to Tell If Your Heater Is Energy-Efficient

You need to find out your home’s square footage first when buying a new heating system. This allows you to choose a heater with the most suitable heating capacity for your home. The US Department of Energy (DOE) states that older heating systems usually have around 56% to 70% energy efficiency, while modern heaters can have as high as 98.5% efficiency. It should be noted that the heating system’s efficiency can be reduced by up to 5% annually, depending on the maintenance you give it. Here are three aspects to look into to find out whether you have an efficient heating system or not:

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Heating System Age

Typical residential heating systems have a lifespan between 15 and 20 years. Proper maintenance can help ensure your heating system remains as efficient as possible for many years. However, wear and tear can cause the system’s efficiency to drop. The age of your heating system can clue you in on its efficiency. Older systems tend to be less efficient and vice versa. If you are still unsure of your heater’s energy efficiency level despite knowing how old it is, consult a certified HVAC technician to assist you.

Energy Bills & Home Heating Costs

Your energy bills can fluctuate depending on the season and your heating requirements. Nevertheless, the cumulative energy costs for the year shouldn’t be that much different from the past year’s costs unless the energy expenses per unit have increased. If all other factors are the same, compare the energy bills from the same time of the previous year to determine if any unexplainable increases in your heating costs are present.

If there’s a surge in your energy bills, it can point to the reduced efficiency of your heating system. This is because a heater with low efficiency needs to work harder and longer to sufficiently heat the room or area. As a result, it will consume more power, so your energy costs will increase.

AFUE Rating

The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency ratio, shortened to AFUE, is the efficiency rating of a heater. Specifically, the AFUE rating can be determined by dividing the quantity of heat output by the quantity of heat input (which is the amount of fuel used). For example, a 95% AFUE rating translates to a system that can convert 95% of its fuel to heat while the remaining 5% dissipates through the vent.

Most manufacturers put an energy label on their heating systems where the AFUE rating is indicated. Therefore, you can check the label, if there’s any, to determine your heater’s efficiency. Check the heater’s serial number or model if you can’t find the label. You can use this info to search for the AFUE rating online via the manufacturer’s website. Knowing the AFUE rating of your heater will tell you if it’s energy-efficient or not.

How To Improve Your Heating System’s Efficiency

A low-efficiency heater can put your comfort at risk during cold days and require frequent repairs. It can also increase your energy costs. Depending on its fuel type, a less efficient heating system can also mean you will have a higher carbon footprint. Here are several tips that can help you improve the efficiency of your heating system:

• Clean and change HVAC filters regularly: A clogged HVAC filter means the system will work harder to pull air through it. Therefore, you should always replace the furnace filters regularly to promote energy-efficient operation.
• Insulate your house: Enhance your home’s thermal envelope so that it retains the heat inside during winter, lowering the burden on your heater.
• Book annual HVAC inspections: Regular heater tune-ups can help improve your heating system’s efficiency. Therefore, ensure that a qualified HVAC technician performs regular checks to resolve heater problems and increase your comfort while reducing your energy costs.
• Install a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the settings based on your heating requirements. This way, your system only runs when needed, and even then, it only uses the quantity of fuel per your home’s heating needs.

Why You Should Replace an Outdated Heater

There will come a time when regular maintenance won’t help much in improving your heating system’s efficiency. When this happens, consider replacing your heater so you can reap the following benefits:

• Indoor comfort: New heaters have high efficiencies, so they are more likely able to provide adequate home heating. Colder days mean your home requires enough heating to achieve enhanced comfort, which an old heating system may fail to deliver.
• Avoid regular breakdowns: The wear and tear of old heating systems cause them to break down more often. Replacing your heater means you prevent frequent breakdowns and save on repair costs.
• Save on heating costs: High efficiency usually means lower energy expenses, which is largely guaranteed when you get new heaters.

Conclusion

The heating system’s age, AFUE rating, and checking your energy bills can help you ascertain if you have an energy-efficient heating system or not. An HVAC contractor should inspect and maintain your system on an annual basis to enhance your comfort and efficiency. However, you may need to replace your heater if it is old and outdated.

Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

When you need top-notch cooling and heating services in northeastern Massachusetts, southern New Hampshire, and Maine, call Townsend Energy. Our team of professionally certified and highly skilled technicians can provide high-quality heating and cooling tune-ups, installations, repairs, and replacements. Rest assured, we have the right tools, years of experience, and extensive knowledge in servicing your HVAC system correctly. Click the link to view our service area.

Our company offers one of the most affordable HVAC service prices in the area. Our maintenance services can help you achieve increased energy efficiency and improved comfort while reducing your home heating and cooling bills. If you need to repair or replace your HVAC system, we can recommend the most suitable one for your home within your budget. We guarantee all of our work to ensure your satisfaction. Be sure to call Townsend Energy today to book your next service appointment. We offer free, in-home estimates.

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

Dec 5, 2022 Do You Have An Energy Efficient Heater? Here's How To Tell