Blogs from September, 2023

Pros & Cons of Automatic Propane Delivery

Automatic deliveries are convenient services that provide total peace of mind. You don’t need to shuffle to the tank in bad weather to check fuel levels, make many phone calls, or worry about running out of fuel. The biggest advantage for homeowners who sign up for automatic delivery is always getting priority service, even with high propane demand.

Some contracts include HVAC services, which is advantageous as you can depend on one company for all your heating requirements. This is a convenient benefit for many, especially clients with old HVAC systems needing more frequent professional attention.

One con of automatic deliveries is that clients must sign a contract. While this may not seem like a big deal, it is if you haven’t worked with this company previously. Unfortunately, unless you are familiar with a supplier, you may be committed to working with a company that may not meet your needs.

Moreover, you must inform the company immediately if any drastic changes happen in your home. For instance, you may have cranked up your home heating or built a new addition, causing your home to use more propane. If you don’t let the company know, their computer estimations will be incorrect, and you may run out of fuel before their next scheduled delivery. Also, some automatic propane delivery contracts include HVAC service fees. This may not be the best option for homeowners who don’t want to pay for HVAC services they may not use.

Learn About Our Propane Delivery Plans & Payment Options

(978) 717-0490">Call To Order Propane

Cost Considerations for Automatic Propane Delivery

Signing up for automatic propane delivery may mean paying a larger fee upfront because a few companies may charge annually. However, this can also mean you’ll have bigger savings over time. You will never run out of propane, so you won’t have to worry about fees linked with tank depletion. Some companies also offer price protection, locking your fuel rate for a set period. This means that the price you pay for propane will not increase even if the fuel cost does. That’s a great way to manage your costs.

Related Article: Why Is Propane Environmentally Friendly?

How Will-Call Propane Delivery Works

Will-call deliveries mean that all the responsibility of tank monitoring and scheduling deliveries falls on the homeowners. When the tank runs low, they will need to call their propane supplier to book a delivery. This requires knowing how to read the percentage gauge in a tank and checking it regularly.

(978) 717-0490">Call To Schedule A Propane Delivery

Read Our Reviews

Pros & Cons Of Will-Call Propane Delivery

The advantages of will-call delivery are that you are in control of your propane system and only need to pay for the delivery when needed. This may not be the best option for some homeowners. Forgetting to monitor your propane levels comes with the risk of running low or out of propane. Running out of propane comes with several fees.

Moreover, it isn’t always simple to schedule a delivery. Depending on the situation, the companies may not reach will-call clients for a few days after placing their order. These orders are also on a first-call, first-served basis. As a result, periods of high demand may have will-call customers waiting longer than expected. Will-call customers who need HVAC repairs or replacements may also have to find another HVAC service company if your propane supplier isn’t a full-service company.

Related Article: 5 Benefits Of Propane Fireplaces

Cost Considerations For Will-Call Propane Delivery

Many potential fees are linked with will-call deliveries, especially if the tank becomes depleted before the company arrives. Some companies will deliver in emergency situations, but they typically have extra fees for weekend, holiday, nighttime, or emergency weekday refills. If the tank is completely empty, HVAC technicians may have to conduct line bleeds, safety or pressure tests, or appliance pilot relighting. The fees for all these services can add up to a significant amount.

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

Which Propane Delivery Option Is Best For You?

The best way to decide which propane delivery option most suits you is to determine if you’re willing to take responsibility of monitoring your tank and scheduling a fuel delivery with enough time. Consider how crucial propane is to your home. Think about who will be affected if propane runs out entirely. Keep in mind that children and the elderly living in your home will be significantly affected if the fuel in your tank depletes completely. You should also consider how much time you have to spend frequently checking the tank and how likely you will remember to do this task.

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

Primary Takeaways

If you depend on propane, automatic deliveries mean you don’t need to worry about running out or being blindsided by hefty fees. It is one less task to think about as you do your daily activities. On the other hand, will-call deliveries are an excellent choice for homeowners who don’t want additional fees associated with it since they don’t have to pay more than the necessary amount. You only need to remember to monitor your tank. If you don’t mind the risk of having a runout, you don’t need to subscribe to another service.

Click Here To Explore Our Propane Delivery Services

(978) 717-0490">Order Propane

Propane Delivery FAQS

Here are several of the frequently asked questions about propane delivery:

1. How frequent are automatic deliveries? The answer relies on how quickly the household consumes propane, so the frequency varies for each customer.
2. When should I call for more propane if I choose will-call delivery? Most companies recommend scheduling a propane delivery when the fuel level drops to 30%.
3. How do I read my propane tank’s percentage gauge? Check under the propane tank’s lid for a speedometer-like round dial. The numbers on it indicate the propane percentage in the tank. For instance, the tank is at 30% capacity if the dial reads 30.

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

Conclusion

Having propane delivered to your home means you need to set up an account or call whenever you need a refill. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, and there are several considerations you need to think about before arriving at a final choice. Go for the route that will best suit your needs. If it isn’t working as you expected, you can always switch to the other option down the line.

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

Call Townsend Energy For Superior Propane Delivery Services

Be sure to call Townsend Energy when you require exceptional propane delivery service in Northeastern Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire & Maine. Rest assured that our top-notch fuel deliveries are affordable, quick, and friendly.

Rely on us to always provide unmatched services. Call us today to learn of the different fuel delivery and financing plans our company offers.

You can also count on us when you need superior HVAC services, as we offer a full line to improve your home’s energy efficiency, indoor air quality, comfort, and more. Our services include furnace maintenance, air conditioning installations, boiler repairs, and more. Call Townsend Energy today.

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

Explore Our Library Of Case Studies

Contact us now at (978) 717-0490">(978) 717-0490 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.

Sep 25, 2023 Automatic Vs Will Call Propane Delivery: What To Consider -Townsend Energy

Elements Affecting Boiler Size

Homes that need a large amount of heat will require a boiler with a greater output. It’s vital to choose a size that will adequately warm your space. HVAC professionals can make precise calculations to provide a target output for your needs. Seasoned technicians can also make rough estimates based on their experience. Inform them about the number of radiators, the size of the property, the layout, the hot water demand, and the type of fuel you use. These elements play a vital role in equipment selection. Here’s a closer look at these factors:

1. Radiator Count: Have you taken the time to count your home’s radiators? Typically, a family home with four bedrooms has around ten radiators. For such a setup, a smaller 24-kilowatt boiler should suffice. A smaller or larger property may require a smaller or larger boiler, respectively.
2. Home Size: The size of your property can significantly influence the choice of boiler. A larger home, with more internal air, requires a boiler with a greater heat output. If you choose a boiler too small for your home, you might end up shivering during the height of winter.
3. Heat Loss: A more sophisticated way to determine the perfect boiler size has been developed by heating engineers. Instead of basing it solely on the size of the property, they calculate the structure’s heat loss. This technique incorporates various factors, such as the number of windows and radiators, floor area, insulation type, among other heat loss contributors.
4. Fuel Type: The type of fuel your heating system utilizes can impact its efficiency. Some homes are connected to the natural gas grid, while others depend on a heating oil or liquefied petroleum gas tank. More contemporary boilers can even use renewable energy sources, such as solar power.
5. Bathrooms and Showers: A robust boiler can ensure consistent water pressure without squandering energy. When considering the size of the property, don’t overlook the number of bathrooms, as these require considerable hot water. Also, consider the number of occupants and their bathing habits.

(978) 717-0490">Get Started - Click Here To Make An Appointment

Read Our Reviews

Related Article: A Comprehensive Guide For Residential Boilers

Home Boiler Types

Choosing the correct boiler type is just as important as selecting the right size. Each boiler type comes with its advantages and disadvantages, and the best option often depends on the boiler you currently have installed and the available space for a new unit:

1. Combi Boilers: Combination boilers, or combi boilers, only heat water when necessary, making them ideal for smaller homes as they don’t require a tank for hot water storage. However, they aren’t capable of heating a space and water simultaneously.
2. Traditional Boilers: These boilers come with separate hot and cold water storage tanks and are often found in older homes. If you live in an older property, replacing your existing boiler with another traditional boiler might make the most sense.
3. System Boilers: System boilers are an excellent choice for large families who use a lot of hot water daily. They take water directly from the mains, which removes the need for a separate cold-water tank. Unlike combi boilers, system boilers can supply multiple outlets with hot water simultaneously.

Learn More About Our Boiler Services

(978) 717-0490">Call To Schedule A Free Consultation

Oversized Boiler Downsides

An overly large boiler will often short cycle, rapidly turning on and off due to the excessive heat it generates. This can cause radiators to overheat and components to wear out prematurely, reducing the lifespan of your boiler.

Related Article: How AFUE Ratings Determine The Efficiency Of Home Heating Equipment

Undersized Boiler Downsides

Conversely, an undersized boiler can take an excessively long time to warm your home. It may be adequate for most days, but may fall short during extremely cold periods. It may also struggle to supply enough hot water if multiple taps are being used simultaneously.

Learn More About Our Home Heating Services

(978) 717-0490">Call To Schedule An Appointment

Related Article: What To Look For In A New Oil Boiler For Your Home

In Summary

Choosing a boiler is a technical process. Homeowners who take the time to understand this process tend to be more satisfied with their choice. Consultation with a competent HVAC contractor and performing heat loss calculations can prevent costly mistakes.

Related Article: Best Tips For Hydronic Heating System Maintenance

Contact Townsend Energy for Your HVAC Needs

Townsend Energy delivers exceptional heating and cooling services in Northeastern Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire & Maine. Our team of certified technicians are adept at providing top-notch HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each technician is equipped with the necessary expertise to service your HVAC system correctly.

We promise competitive pricing for heating and cooling services in the area. Our maintenance services are designed to enhance your comfort, increase your energy efficiency, and reduce your heating and cooling costs. Should you require an HVAC repair or replacement, we can recommend the best option for your home while keeping your budget in mind. We stand behind our work with a satisfaction guarantee. To schedule a service appointment, contact Townsend Energy today. We offer free in-home estimates. Click the link to view our service area.

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

Explore Our Library Of Case Studies

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

Sep 18, 2023 Boiler Size: What To Consider For Your Home

7 Must-Have Accessories To Improve HVAC Performance

HVAC systems are crucial to modern homes and offices, providing comfort and healthy indoor living space. They can maximize the system’s performance and ensure it operates efficiently when the right accessories are in place. These must-have accessories are an investment in your household’s health and comfort and your HVAC unit’s longevity, whether you wish to have improved air quality in your home or lower your energy use. Our HVAC professionals can help you determine which HVAC accessories are needed to meet your heating and cooling requirements.

Explore Our Heating & Air Conditioning Services

(978) 717-0490">Call To Schedule A Free, In-Home Estimate

Must-Have Accessories to Improve HVAC Performance

Keep reading to learn about a few of the must-have home HVAC accessories.

Related Article: AC Troubleshooting: Home Air Conditioner Starts Cold Then Gets Warm

Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat allows remote control of your HVAC system through a web interface or mobile app. It also utilizes algorithms to know your heating and cooling habits and automatically adjust your HVAC system to your preferred temperature settings. This eliminates wasted energy from manual adjustments or unnecessarily cooling or heating an empty home or business, allowing you to enjoy low energy expenses, better comfort, and improved HVAC performance.

Smart thermostats also let you connect them with other smart home devices. This way, you can get real-time weather data and usage reports and even set multiple schedules. It makes it a lot easier to manage your HVAC system and ensure maximum indoor comfort.

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

Related Article: Variable-Speed Furnaces Can Improve Home Efficiency

UV Air Purifiers

UV air purifiers are made to work hand-in-hand with HVAC systems to enhance the air quality of indoor spaces. They utilize ultraviolet (UV) light to kill harmful pathogens like mold, bacteria, and viruses that can circulate in the air and make you ill. UV light neutralizes these toxic microorganisms as they pass through the purifier, making the air cleaner and safer to breathe. This helps keep airborne illnesses from spreading while improving the overall indoor air quality.

UV air purifiers are ideal for homes and buildings that need high-quality air to prevent allergies and have a safer indoor environment for individuals with health issues. It is also a necessity for spaces where sanitation is crucial, such as hospitals, clinics, and laboratories.

Click Here To Learn More About Our HVAC Services

(978) 717-0490">Call To Schedule A Free Consultation

HVAC Zone Control System

An HVAC Zone Control System regulates the cooling and heating in various areas of your home or office. It utilizes several thermostats and dampers to control the flow of cold or warm air to every zone. This lets you control the temperature separately in different areas of the building, preventing over- or under-conditioning of unused rooms and enhancing energy efficiency and comfort in the process. The system helps ensure that there is less energy waste because it will only cool or heat the areas that need it. This way, you can maintain different temperatures in different parts of the building as necessary.

Related Article: Related Article: How HVAC Comfort Zones Cut Energy Costs

​​​​​​Whole-house Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers

Whole-home humidifiers add moisture to the air to fight off dryness during the winter and make your home more comfortable. On the other hand, whole-house dehumidifiers eliminate the excess moisture in your home or office so that it becomes more comfortable. It also lowers the chance of mold and mildew growth. Both devices help improve the overall air quality of your indoor space and make your HVAC system operate more efficiently.

Float Switch

A float switch in an HVAC system detects the water level in a condensate pan. The float switch will activate once the water reaches a certain level. It will turn on the pump automatically to get rid of the excess water and keep it from overflowing. This way, your HVAC system can function properly and avoid damage from water overflow.

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

Ventilator

Modern homes and offices usually have highly sealed building envelopes for better energy efficiency. However, this can have a negative effect on your indoor air quality. Your space can feel stuffy if there is no proper air exchange, causing the air to become stale or odorless. You can have the fresh air needed for good indoor air quality when you install a dedicated ventilation system or integrate one into your current HVAC unit.

The main tasks of a ventilator are to let fresh air flow from outside into your home and eliminate stale indoor air. It lowers the risk of indoor air pollution and ensures that the integrity of the building’s envelope remains intact.

Learn More About Our Heating & Cooling System Services

(978) 717-0490">Call To Schedule An Appointment

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

Surge Protection

Surge protection devices protect your HVAC system from sudden electrical voltage spikes or power surges. Power surges can damage sensitive electronic parts in your HVAC system, including fans, compressors, and the control board. This may lead to expensive repairs or complete system failure.

Surge protection diverts the extra voltage from your HVAC system and directs it into a grounded conductor. It effectively neutralizes the surge before it can harm the system. Installing surge protection helps extend your HVAC system’s service life, prevent the need for expensive repairs, and lower the risk of system failures.

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

Conclusion

Adding the right accessories can help your HVAC system significantly improve its efficiency and performance and extend its lifespan. Accessories like smart thermostats and surge protection help protect your system from damage and save on energy expenses in the long run. Investing in these most preferred accessories will ensure that your HVAC system operates smoothly, providing peace of mind and comfort for a long time. Increase your HVAC system’s lifespan and save money. Contact Townsend Energy to help you find out what HVAC accessories are most fitting for your system.

Call Townsend Energy For All Your HVAC Requirements

Townsend Energy provides high-quality heating and cooling services in Northeastern Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire & Maine. We have professionally certified technicians who are experts in HVAC installations, tune-ups, repairs, and more. Rely on us for accurate and safe HVAC system services. We are always ready to serve you as the area’s most sought-after HVAC service provider.

Our company offers highly qualified and affordable HVAC services in the area. Our maintenance services can reduce energy costs and improve comfort and energy efficiency. Our team of experienced experts can recommend the best HVAC solutions for your home or business while staying within your budget. Contact us today to book a service appointment. Call Townsend Energy now!

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

Explore Our Library Of Case Studies

Contact us now at (978) 717-0490">(978) 717-0490 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.

Sep 11, 2023 HVAC Accessories For Improved System Performance

The following are five aspects to check about the HVAC system when buying a home:

Related Article: AC Troubleshooting: Home Air Conditioner Starts Cold Then Gets Warm

1. Assess The HVAC Equipment

During a house walkthrough, inspect the heating and cooling equipment. Check for any signs of cracks, dents, water stains, and rust. Switch on the air conditioning system and the furnace. Listen for odd noises like hissing and clanging.

Check the unit’s age. The service life of most HVAC systems is around 15 years before they need to be replaced. Some units, however, can last for two decades or more with correct maintenance. Ask to see the maintenance records for the units. If the unit is over 15 years, factor replacement costs into your budget. You can also ask the technicians from Townsend Energy to assess the unit professionally.

2. Inspect The HVAC Ductwork

Like the HVAC unit, ducts do not last forever. Check the ducts if you are able. If you can access a crawl space or the attic, check for gaps in the ductwork runs. Inspect every vent to ensure the duct is firmly linked.

Check inside the ducts for any dust buildup or signs of mold growth. Dust can be removed, but its accumulation indicates neglect. On the other hand, mold means the duct has excess moisture, which can point to potential system failure.

3. Inquire About Insulation

Learning how much insulation the house has and its installation date is crucial. Inadequate insulation means the home isn’t energy efficient and will have higher energy costs. If the insulation was installed some years ago, it has possibly settled and requires additional insulation. If the realtor doesn’t know, ask them to question the seller.

Assess how comfortable the home feels as you walk through it. Do you feel drafts while walking past doors or windows? Do some rooms feel hotter or colder than others? Does the air smell musty or stale?

Related Article: Why Are My Lights Flickering When My AC Turns On?

4. Consider The Refrigerant

Check the refrigerant type the HVAC system uses. Older units may use R-22, which was commonly used for many years. However, the EPA has banned its use in new HVAC systems. Existing systems that use R-22 can have their refrigerant replaced. However, it is becoming harder to find and costlier to buy. It was banned entirely in 2020. You need to retrofit the existing unit so it can use new refrigerant or replace the whole system.

5. Weigh The HVAC Replacement & Ongoing Energy Costs

Do you have the cash reserved to buy a replacement heating and cooling system if you buy a home that suddenly needs it? Purchasing a home with an old system means that you’re at risk of facing this situation.

You should also consider the system’s operating cost. Sellers shouldn’t have a problem sharing their energy bills for the past two years. If the energy bills are abnormally high, it typically translates into a poorly maintained HVAC system or a unit that is on its last legs.

These tips will help you decide if an HVAC replacement is coming down the pipeline shortly after closing. You should also consider hiring an HVAC technician to assess the unit professionally during home-buying. Call Townsend Energy to set an appointment today.

Related Article: Why Is My Outside AC Unit Not Running But Inside Is?

Additional Items To Consider

Keep reading to learn about the additional items to inspect around the home linked to the HVAC system.

Room to Room

Be wary of the moisture level and temperature while you move from one room to another. Determine if there are significant changes in certain rooms or areas. Uneven home temperatures can be commonly caused by blocked or leaky ductwork, an incorrectly sized HVAC unit, poor insulation, clogged vents, or an aging HVAC unit.

(978) 717-0490">Click Here To Call & Make An Appointment

Read Our Reviews

Heating & Cooling Zoning

Are there multiple heating and cooling zones in the home? If there aren’t, can the current system handle zoning if you choose to set it up in the future? Ask the realtor or the current owner to find out how to answer your zoning questions.

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

HVAC Vent Flow

Determine where the intake and outflow vents are located. Does constant air flow through these vents? Is there a change in the force of air from vent to vent or room to room? Several usual causes of low airflow through some or all the vents are dirty or blocked air filters, ductwork leaks, dirty ducts, a restrictive HVAC filter, or vents that are too small or too big.

HVAC Unit Age

As mentioned above, find out how old the HVAC unit is. You should also ask when it was installed in the home. Research the specific model to explore the typical lifespan for this particular system. Sometimes, the HVAC unit may look old, but it still may have several years before a replacement is required. Air conditioners usually have a 15-year lifespan. On the other hand, on average, furnaces should be replaced when they’re 15 to 20 years old.

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

History of HVAC Maintenance

Ask the current homeowner to give you as much information on the unit’s repair and maintenance history. This will help you determine how well the system has been maintained. Older HVAC units that did not receive proper maintenance tend to break down more often. They also typically require replacement earlier than units that receive proper care and maintenance.

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

Warranties and Service Plans

Does the HVAC system have any active warranties or service plans? More importantly, can they be transferred to you, or can you use them as long as they’re in place? Inquire about this crucial information to the current homeowner. Does your realtor offer a home warranty to cover the HVAC system and other appliances in case they break down?

HVAC Equipment Manuals

Make sure that you collect any and all manuals of HVAC machinery present in the home. If no physical manuals are available, get the serial or model numbers, as most manuals can be digitally downloaded online. Manuals can provide helpful advice in case of an emergency.

Related Article: Understanding MERV Ratings: Choosing The Right Air Filter For Your HVAC System

Thermostats & Detectors

The inspection includes checking the thermostats and smoke/carbon monoxide detectors. However, learning their capability, model, and age is recommended. It can help you decide whether to replace them now or wait until their lifespan ends.

Physical Heating & Air Conditioning Unit Inspection

Pay attention to noises, dust, or rust. The tiniest noise and smallest speck can indicate a developing issue with your HVAC unit. Hiring an HVAC professional for a full unit inspection is best if you are seriously considering purchasing the home.

(978) 717-0490">Call Townsend Energy To Schedule An Appointment

Conclusion

Is the system worth keeping, or will you need a complete replacement shortly after purchasing your home? Getting a brand-new HVAC system is not a minor expense, so you may want to negotiate it into the price of the house or set aside some money to get a replacement system.

Give Townsend Energy A Call For All Your HVAC Needs

Townsend Energy is one of the leading providers of superior heating and cooling services in Northeastern Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire, and Maine. Our team of experts comprises the best professionally certified technicians who can conduct exceptional HVAC replacements, installations, tune-ups, and repairs. Rely on our skilled and knowledgeable techs to service your HVAC system correctly and safely.

Our company name is synonymous with quality and affordability. Our maintenance services can help improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency while lowering energy expenses. If you need an HVAC repair or replacement system, we can suggest the most suitable one within your budget. Your satisfaction is always our priority, so all our work comes with a guarantee. Schedule a service appointment and give Townsend Energy a call today. We offer free, in-home estimates.

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

Explore Our Library Of Case Studies

Contact us now at (978) 717-0490">(978) 717-0490 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.

Sep 4, 2023 Buying A House With An Old HVAC? Here's What To Check