Blogs from July, 2023

Warm Water – Cool Hand Method

You don’t need a precise number at all times. Don’t worry if you can’t find the gauge or if this device is broken. Sensing the surface temperature can help you estimate your tank level. To do this, pour warm water over the tank and run your hand along the walls. A significant temperature difference between the space and liquid fuel should be noticeable. Check where it begins to get cold, as this is the current maximum reach of your tank. This should get lower over time. Book your next propane delivery before it gets too low.

Related Article: 5 Benefits Of Propane Fireplaces

Simple Math Calculations

You can do simple calculations to get accurate estimates if you are good with numbers. First, learn your propane tank’s volume. If you only have its weight capacity in pounds, divide it by 4.2 to know its equivalent number of gallons. Next, find your heating system’s consumption rate in BTUs per hour. British Thermal Unit is how much heat is required to raise the temperature of a pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. It is an excellent heat content measure of different fuels and energy sources.

One gallon of propane can generate 91,452 BTUs of thermal energy. Check the BTU rating of your heater and divide it by the number above. A system with a rating of 30,000 BTUs will use around 0.328 gallons per hour. This is equal to 7.87 each day and 236.19 gallons every month. Whereas a system rated at 50,000 BTUs installed in a bigger home will use 0.547 gallons per hour, 13.12 gallons per day, and 393.65 gallons monthly. These numbers assume continuous operation and a new heating unit. Keep in mind that a heating system’s efficiency or ability to turn fuel into usable heat drops as it ages. Remember this as you do your calculations. These consumption rates should help you estimate how long your tank will last.

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Related Article: Do I Have to Worry About My Propane Freezing?

Why You Should Schedule Your Propane Delivery at 30%

Don’t wait until your tank is completely depleted before scheduling your next propane delivery. Professional propane providers recommend booking a fuel delivery when the levels drop to 30%. This buffer will give you wiggle room should the delivery be delayed due to foul weather, fleet availability, traffic congestion, or supply issues. Being safe is always the better option.

The weather can also change at any time. Temperature drops can cause the fuel consumption rate to increase. Therefore, you may think your tank will last for a week, but it may only keep your home warm for several days. Don’t wait until your tank is dangerously low. As mentioned above, a good rule of thumb is getting a refill when your tank is at 30% capacity.

If you ran out of propane long before you should have, check for leaks around the tank before getting more propane. You must repair any leaks first to avoid fires and fuel waste. Have HVAC professionals visit for cleanup and repairs.

Related Article: How Much Propane Will Use In The Summer?

Why You Shouldn’t Run Out Of Propane

Make sure that your tank is managed properly.

• Non-functional Appliances: When propane runs out, all the propane-fueled appliances will cease to function. Your heating unit cannot shield you from the cold anymore. You cannot cook meals on your propane stove, and your propane water heater cannot provide warm showers.
• Rust Build-up: Air moves inside your tank when fuel moves out. The moist air can result in internal corrosion if you neglect it. It weakens the tank walls and results in leaks. Rust can also cover up the propane smell, so you may not notice the leak immediately. It will worsen while you are unaware it is happening.
• The heat from the heating system isn’t just to make your family comfortable. It also benefits your property by keeping the pipes from freezing and bursting. This problem can be expensive to repair.

Related Article: 9 Reasons To Choose Propane Over Electricity In Your Home

Conclusion

Letting your propane tank run out of fuel can be dangerous, inconvenient, and expensive. Track its content levels throughout the cold season to prevent unpleasant surprises. Utilize the techniques in this article to estimate the volume and contact your local propane supplier for deliveries when it’s about 30%. Being diligent can result in stress-free ownership.

Related Article: How Big Does My Home Propane Tank Need To Be?

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Count on us for quality services at all times. Call us today to consult with our professionals about the various delivery plans and financing options that best fit your needs.

We also provide a full line of heating and cooling services to improve your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality. Our excellent HVAC services include installations, repairs, maintenance, and more. Call Townsend Energy now!

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Jul 24, 2023 How To Tell If Home Propane Tank Is Empty

What Are the Most Common Reasons An Air Conditioner Blows Warm Air?

Here are some of the top causes of an air conditioner blowing warm air:

Related Article: Top 7 Things You Should Never Do To Your AC Unit

Thermostat Settings & Malfunctions

The thermostat is an air conditioner’s control center. It senses the home’s environmental conditions and modulates the unit’s activity to maintain the temperature setting. Assuming that the thermostat works properly, check its settings. Also, be sure to check the thermostat’s batteries. The thermostat may also be faulty because of the low battery charge.

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Missing Or Dirty Air Filters

Excess dirt keeps the air from passing through the filters. This places excess stress on the blower and other air conditioner components. It also wears out the system faster while lowering the unit’s efficiency. If there are no filters, it can damage the cooling system because pollutants can get into the cooling system. A thick layer of dirt around the evaporator coils can prevent thermal transfer, lowering the efficiency. It may also result in the unit freezing.

Related Article: Air Conditioner Makes Loud Noise When Starting

Air Filter Maintenance

Air filters need to be maintained consistently. Their effectiveness drops as time passes, so they must be replaced before they become more of a problem than an asset. Replacing the filters is an easy process that most homeowners can do.

How frequently you replace the filter depends on usage and your home environment. A typical family home may need to check the filter once a month. Some homes can change the filters every two months. You may need to conduct a monthly filter replacement if you have a few pets. On the other hand, vacation homes that are seldom occupied may replace the filters once every six months.

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Low Air Conditioner Refrigerant

The refrigerant is the air conditioner’s life source. It transfers the heat from the indoor air and releases it outside. It travels through the system, cooling your home with every cycle. The air conditioner requires a certain amount of refrigerant to operate properly. A leak can lower the level, causing the system to struggle and operate inefficiently.

Dirty or Frozen Air Conditioner Evaporator Coils

Evaporator coils catch the heat inside the home. They cannot do their job properly if the coils get too dirty. Indoor air will not be able to heat the refrigerant flowing inside the coils, causing the coils to freeze. It will only worsen unless you do something about it. Clean the coils regularly so this problem doesn’t occur.

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Dirty or Damaged HVAC Ductwork

Central air conditioners have blowers that circulate the cold air from the unit to different rooms in a home via the ducts. Damaged ducts mean the cold air will leak. The farthest rooms may not receive cold air anymore. Instead, you will feel hot air coming out of the ductwork. Moreover, damaged ducts can force the system to work harder to reach the set temperature, stressing the system in the process. This causes premature wear and tear, premature AC replacements, and high energy costs.

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Air Conditioner Electrical Problems

Watch out for air conditioner electrical issues. A domino effect can happen if one or more parts aren’t receiving sufficient power. This will then cause warm air to come out of the air conditioner blower.

How To Avoid Unnecessary Issues with Your Air Conditioner

Here are several steps you can avoid unnecessary problems with your air conditioning system:

• Replace HVAC Filters Frequently: It is essential to have enough airflow for the air conditioner to function properly. Dirty filters are the biggest hindrance to sufficient airflow. Therefore, you should replace the filters as often as needed. Don’t let filters sit on your AC for longer than three months. Replace it once every two months to be on the safe side. If you own pets, change the filters once a month.
• Schedule Annual Air Conditioner Maintenance: You should do intensive cleaning in your home during spring. It is recommended that you include yearly air conditioner maintenance at this time. This way, your system is better prepared for intense work in the summer. Technicians can determine any emerging problems and resolve them immediately. They will also clean and lubricate the air conditioner so its operations become more efficient and smoother. This helps extend your cooling lifespan, improve home comfort, and reduce energy costs.
• Be Mindful Of Landscaping Near The Condenser: Being mindful of debris and dirt helps keep clogs from occurring in your condenser. Trim the plants around it to ensure there is a two-foot perimeter around the outdoor unit. Examine the top and remove any debris as needed. It is common to see dried branches and leaves around it. Remove them by hand or sweep them away.

Related Article: How Much Clearance Is Necessary Around an Outdoor AC Unit?

What To Do When Your AC Blows Warm Air

Review the list in this article if your air conditioner is blowing warm air. Investigate the likely causes and find the exact issue so you can resolve it using the right solution. Call an HVAC company immediately if the problem persists. This way, the problem doesn’t escalate into bigger ones. Early intervention is also always cheaper than long-term neglect, which can result in a complete HVAC system replacement.

Conclusion

Air conditioners are built to generate cold air. Act immediately if your home air conditioner starts cold then gets warm. Call a professional HVAC technician to resolve the issue. Immediate intervention can save your cooling unit from breakdowns and protect your wallet from expensive HVAC replacements.

Related Article: Follow These Simple Tips To Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality

Call Townsend Energy For All Your HVAC Requirements

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Our company guarantees highly affordable and quality HVAC services in the region. Our team of skilled HVAC professionals can improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency through our tune-up services. We can also help lower your home cooling bills. We can also suggest the best HVAC repair or replacement solutions for your home and budget. All our work is guaranteed to ensure your satisfaction. Book a service appointment by calling Townsend Energy today. We offer free, in-home estimates.

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Jul 17, 2023 Home Air Conditioner Starts Cold Then Gets Warm

Related Article: Air Conditioner Makes Loud Noise When Starting

Signs of a Major Air Conditioner Issue

Experiencing flickering lights when the AC turns on could mean a more significant problem with the electrical system. Here are some potential causes of persistent or severe flickering:

1. Overloaded circuit: If the circuit carrying both the AC and lights is overloaded, it can lead to flickering lights. This poses a safety risk and can cause damage to the electrical system over time.
2. Faulty wiring: Faulty or outdated wiring can result in voltage drops and other electrical issues. If the flickering persists, it may indicate the need for wiring repairs or replacements.
3. Low voltage: Insufficient voltage supplied to your home can cause home lights to flicker when the AC starts. This may be due to power grid problems or issues with the transformer delivering power to your residence.
4. Damaged or weakened AC capacitor: Similar to a weak or faulty car battery, a damaged or weakened AC capacitor can cause a significant decrease in electrical power, leading to noticeable light dimming. If this problem arises, it is recommended to seek professional assistance to assess and address the AC capacitor.

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Related Article: How Much Clearance Is Necessary Around an Outdoor AC Unit?

Ways to Prevent Lights from Flickering When the Air Conditioner is Turned On

Experiencing flickering lights when you turn on your air conditioner can be frustrating, but you can take steps to address the issue. Here are some easy and easy tips to help you prevent lights from flickering:

1. Ensure proper electrical connections: Make sure all electrical connections related to your air conditioner and lighting fixtures are secure. Loose connections can cause voltage drops and flickering. If you are unsure about electrical work, consult a professional electrician.
2. Balance electrical loads: Avoid overloading circuits by distributing electrical loads evenly. Consider having dedicated circuits for high-power appliances like air conditioners to prevent excessive strain on the electrical system.
3. Upgrade wiring if needed: Outdated or faulty wiring can contribute to flickering lights. If you suspect wiring issues, have a qualified electrician inspect and upgrade the wiring if necessary.
4. Install voltage stabilizers: Voltage stabilizers, also known as surge protectors or voltage regulators, can help regulate and stabilize the voltage supply to your home. These devices can minimize fluctuations and prevent flickering lights.
5. Seek professional assistance: If flickering lights persist or worsen despite your efforts, call an experienced HVAC technician or electrician. They have the expertise and training to diagnose and resolve any underlying electrical or air conditioning system issues.

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Don’t DIY Air Conditioning Repair – Call An HVAC Contractor

For safety reasons, avoid DIY attempts when dealing with electrical issues related to air conditioning or lighting systems. Working with electricity can be extremely hazardous and pose serious risks, including severe injury or even death if mishandled. Air conditioning and lighting systems operate at high voltages, making them potentially dangerous for individuals without proper training in electrical work.

Apart from the physical dangers, attempting to fix electrical issues without the appropriate expertise can further damage the system and potentially lead to expensive repairs. Electrical systems are intricate. Even seemingly simple problems may have underlying causes that need the expertise of a trained professional to identify and address.

Always hire a licensed and qualified electrician to handle any electrical issues to ensure safety and effectiveness. These professionals possess the necessary knowledge, training, and equipment to perform the work correctly, keeping your home or business secure and functional. Prioritizing professional assistance is essential for the well-being of yourself and others.

Related Article: Why Is HVAC Airflow So Important For My Home?

Conclusion

Being attentive to lights flickering when the AC turns on is crucial for ensuring home safety, comfort, and peace of mind. These flickering lights can indicate underlying electrical issues that require immediate attention from qualified technicians or electricians. Neglecting these signs may lead to more significant electrical problems down the line. Adopt a proactive and vigilant approach to identifying and addressing these issues promptly. Taking timely action ensures that your home remains safe, comfortable, and free from electrical complications.

Related Article: Follow These Simple Tips To Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality

Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

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Townsend Energy understands the importance of having a comfortable and energy-efficient home, so we offer competitive pricing for our services. Our maintenance programs are designed to enhance your comfort and reduce energy costs. Whether you need an HVAC repair or a replacement, our knowledgeable technicians can recommend the best solution while considering your budget. We stand behind our HVAC work and offer a satisfaction guarantee.

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Jul 10, 2023 Lights Flickering When AC Turns On

Deficient Power Supply To The Air Conditioner

Fan motors are powered by electricity. If there is insufficient power, they cannot spin. It can be a challenge to determine what the exact inhibitor is in different cases. An experienced HVAC professional can help make an accurate diagnosis.

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Contactor Problems

The contactor’s job is to control the fan motor. Any kind of failure will stop the blades from rotating. It isn’t recommended to try fixing it on your own. Air conditioner issues tend to worsen when left in the hands of an untrained individual. Call an HVAC professional immediately for a reliable solution.

Bad Air Conditioner Capacitors

Bad capacitors can cause the outdoor unit’s fan to fail. An air conditioner capacitor stores energy, much like a battery. This way, the blades are able to spin continuously. After heavy usage, they lose their ability to store energy. Power surges and high temperatures can also damage this component. Capacitor failure means the fan won’t receive the power it needs to spin.

You can check to see if this is what’s going on with your particular unit by sliding a long wooden stick through the fan grate. Use the stick to nudge the blades gently to get them spinning. If they start to spin, you may have a bad capacitor on your hands. The fan will eventually stop working once again. Call a professional right away.

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Burnt Out AC Unit Fan Motor

Motors can burn out when they experience too much stress. As time passes, they also suffer from wear and tear. Poorly maintained systems experience this quicker than those that receive regular maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance is essential so that problems are resolved early, and costly HVAC repairs are avoided.

Related Article: Why Is HVAC Airflow So Important For My Home?

Debris On The Axle

An external force, like that from a stick, should be sufficient to make the blades rotate. Inspect the fan axle for debris to see if this is causing an issue. The motor’s bearing may have dirt build-up on it. Hire an HVAC professional to disassemble and clean all components so that it moves as they should.

What If The Entire Outside Air Conditioning Unit Isn’t Functioning?

There are some cases where the outdoor unit stops working altogether. This calls for immediate professional assistance. A non-functioning air conditioner in the middle of the summer is a problem many homeowners don’t want to deal with. Therefore, act quickly to resolve it. Here are several of the possible reasons your system breaks down suddenly:

Related Article: Follow These Simple Tips To Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality

Thermostat Settings

First, check the basics before jumping to the worst-case scenarios. First, check the thermostat settings. A family member may have pushed the wrong buttons, setting the temperature too high. Try lowering the thermostat setting and check if that changes anything. The thermostat may not even be powered on. Change the batteries before trying to start it up again.

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Dirty Outside Compressor Unit

An outdoor unit that has become too dirty can cause the compressor to overheat. A thick layer of dust acts as insulation, preventing the heat from being released into the environment. The system will shut down if it can no longer tolerate high temperatures. Check the unit to see if it has gotten dirty. Switch off the power and disconnect the system before cleaning. The best option is to contact an experienced HVAC technician to clean the unit for you.

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Safety Switch Lock

Cooling systems are fitted with safety switches that automatically lock the outdoor unit when they sense danger. A reset will get the air conditioner to work again. Turn the system off from the thermostat or the breaker to reset it. Wait several minutes, and turn it on again to determine if it’s back to normal. Otherwise, you need to contact a professional to help with advanced troubleshooting.

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Tripped AC Circuit Breaker

A recent thunderstorm may have caused power surges and overloaded the circuit breakers. Check the circuit panel to see if the breakers have tripped. Switch them off before turning them on again. If your home is an older structure, there may be blown fuses in the fuse box. If so, change the fuses. Call an HVAC technician for a replacement if your air conditioner has a fuse at the shut-off box. The breakers may sometimes trip repeatedly despite trying to normalize the situation. There may be a deeper electrical problem that only a licensed electrician can fix.

Air Conditioner Compressor Failure

The compressor is the air conditioner’s most crucial component. It pumps the refrigerant throughout the system at the right pressure level. Compressor failure can result in the air conditioner losing its cooling abilities. A good indication that the compressor is failing is when the unit stutters or generates a loud sound when turning it on. The unit may stop turning on completely after some time. Repairing this will be expensive, and you may need to upgrade the whole system.

Conclusion

A malfunctioning outdoor unit can be a confusing situation to be in. A quick check may help you determine the possible culprit and sometimes require minimal effort to bring it back to normal. However, the problem may also be too complicated for an untrained homeowner to resolve. Call an HVAC professional right away. They can find the cause and repair the problem. You can be sure that your air conditioner will run smoothly again once the experts are done.

You should also schedule central air conditioner maintenance. This way, problems do not escalate into bigger ones, and you can enjoy high levels of comfort and efficiency.

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Call Townsend Energy For All Your HVAC Requirements

Townsend Energy offers exceptional heating and cooling services in Northeastern Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire & Maine. Our team of professionally certified technicians specializes in top-quality HVAC services, including air conditioner maintenance, mini-split repairs, furnace installations, and many more. Each of our friendly techs has the right tools, experience, and knowledge to conduct accurate HVAC system services.

Our company offers quality and affordable services. Our tune-up services can increase the comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality in your home while reducing your cooling expenses. If you require an HVAC system repair or replacement, we can recommend the best solution while working within your budget. We guarantee all our work to ensure your satisfaction. Contact Townsend Energy today to schedule a service appointment and get a free, in-home estimate.

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Jul 3, 2023 Outside AC Unit Not Running But Inside Is: Causes & Solutions