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Author: Kevin

Make Sure Your AC Is Ready for Memorial Day & Beyond

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning, Blog. No Comments on Make Sure Your AC Is Ready for Memorial Day & Beyond

We’re the Team to Call for Emergency Repairs

Memorial Day weekend. It’s the unofficial start of the summer season and will be here before we know it. For some of us, that means hosting a backyard barbecue.

When we think of backyard parties, we sometimes forget that our indoor space is an important part of the festivities. From bathroom trips to respites from the heat, some guests will spend time inside of our homes. As a result, an important item on a host’s to-do list should be making sure the air conditioning system is tuned up and ready to play its part. After all, one way to ruin a Memorial Day picnic at your home is when you need to call for AC emergency repair.

However, if you do need emergency AC repair, the team at Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating is here for you 24/7. Don’t hesitate to call us, even on holidays and weekends. At Blue Ribbon, we’ve seen all too often what can happen when homeowners don’t schedule their pre-season AC tune-ups with us. It’s during these routine checkups that we often find (and fix) small problems before they spiral out of control into major disasters.

Here are four signs your AC isn’t working properly and needs our outstanding repair services:

  1. It’s blowing hot air, instead of cold. This could mean your AC compressor has failed or your system has a refrigerant leak. Whatever the problem is, our technicians have the skills and experience to diagnose it and restore your cool comfort.
  2. There’s moisture or water around your AC system. This could mean your drain tube is blocked and condensation is backing up. However, it also could be something more serious, such as a refrigerant leak.
  3. Your system is making strange sounds. When your AC makes a quiet, even noise, that’s normal. But when you start hearing squealing, grinding or grating, that’s not normal. Turn off your system and call for an emergency repair. When you hear any of these sounds, leaving your system on could result in the motor burning up.
  4. You notice odd smells. A strange odor could be caused by mold or mildew growth. It also could mean your AC system’s insulation is burning. If you notice a burning odor, you should turn your system off immediately and call in the professionals. If you smell mold or mildew, you should clean around the drain and replace the filter. If that doesn’t solve the problem, we can inspect and professionally clean your system.  

If you notice these problems or anything else that makes you feel uneasy about your AC system, we recommend you schedule a service call. We also encourage homeowners to put pre-season air conditioning tune-ups on their calendars to prevent major problems from occurring during the hot months ahead. Of course, we’ll be there for you when you need us most.

If you do run into trouble, though, keep in mind that we offer 24-hour AC repair to get your system back up and running smoothly and efficiently. Call us at 512.866.9151 or contact us through the convenient form on our website.

Whole house fans in Bastrop, TX Whole house fans in Bastrop, TX

How Well Do Whole-House Fans Circulate Air?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on How Well Do Whole-House Fans Circulate Air?

A whole-house fan can be a great addition to any home as the unit will improve indoor air quality and can also be used to help keep your home cool at times. Whole-house fans are energy efficient and also extremely effective at circulating air through the home and drawing heat outside. However, these units do have their limitations and are really only effective when used at certain times. To understand why this is, it is necessary to know a bit more about exactly what a whole-house fan is and how it works. 

How Whole-House Fans Work

Whole-house fans are installed in the attic, and the unit is connected to a ceiling vent located in a central area of the home such as a living room or main hallway. The fan works to draw air in from outside and also pull the hot, stale air inside the home up through the vent. The air is then pumped into the attic where it then flows outside through the attic vents. 

In order for the fan to draw fresh air in from outside, it is necessary to have at least a few windows partially open. Running the fan with the windows open is essential for safety reasons and also for the fan to work properly. If the fan were to run without any open windows, it could create a backdraft that draws carbon monoxide and other harmful combustion fumes from a gas water heater or any other gas-burning appliance into the living areas. 

Running a whole-house fan without any windows or doors open can also cause the fan’s motor to quickly start overheating and potentially lead to it burning out. The fan also won’t work effectively if no windows are open since it will have no way to pull air in from outside. 

Whole-house fans aren’t really designed to be a permanent option for cooling or improving indoor air quality. Instead, they are only meant to be used at times when the outdoor temperature is the same or lower than the desired indoor temperature. This means that they should mostly only be used in the mornings and evenings or in the early spring and late fall when the weather is cooler. If you were to use the fan during the hottest part of the day, it would quickly cause the temperature inside to rise since the fan would constantly pull hot, humid air in from outside. 

Whole-house fans are most effective when you only have a few windows partially opened by a couple of inches. Most manufacturers recommend turning the fan on in the early evening once the temperature has started to drop and opening the windows in the living room, kitchen or wherever you’re spending most of your time. Once those areas are cooled, you can then start opening a few windows in other parts of the home. When you go to bed, you can then close the other windows and open your bedroom windows a crack to create a breeze to help you stay cool as you sleep. 

Pros and Cons of Using a Whole-House Fan

As long as the outdoor air temperature is close to the same as your desired indoor temperature, a whole-house fan can be an extremely effective option for cooling your home. In most cases, the fan will use less than a quarter of the electricity that your air conditioning system would. This makes it a great option for reducing your energy bills while still ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable. Even if the outdoor temperature is slightly above your desired indoor temperature, the fan can still be effective as it will create a cooling breeze and draw out the heat that has accumulated inside. 

The issue in warmer places like Texas is that the temperatures from early June to early September rarely get below 70 degrees even at night. This means that you will typically still need to rely mostly on your AC system during these months. You can still run the fan for a short time at night or in the early morning to improve your home’s air quality, but you don’t want it to run for long or your home will quickly become too hot. 

You obviously also shouldn’t ever run a whole-house fan at the same time as your air conditioning is on. Not only would this increase your energy bills, but the fan would also constantly draw all of the cool air from your AC back outside. 

Another thing to consider is that whole-house fans really should never be used on overly humid days no matter what the temperature is. If you were to use the fan during humid weather, all of the moisture it brings in could cause condensation to start forming on your walls and other surfaces and potentially lead to water damage and mold growth. 

By drastically increasing the humidity level in the home, the fan would also force your air conditioning to work much harder once you turn it back on. The higher the humidity level is in the home, the more slowly your AC system will cool and the longer it will need to run. In turn, this would lead to greater wear and tear on the AC system and higher energy bills. 

None of this is to say that whole-house fans can’t be useful as they definitely can as long as they are used correctly. When used in cooler weather, a whole-house fan can cool your home down much more quickly than your AC ever could while also using much less energy. In fact, most fans can lower the indoor temperature by as much as 30 degrees in only an hour or so. 

Part of the reason for this is that the fan will quickly draw all of the hot air out of the attic. This is important as all of the heat that builds in the attic during the day is one of the main reasons why a home gets so hot in the late afternoon/early evening. This is especially the case if your attic floor isn’t well insulated since this will make it easier for the heat to flow out of the attic into the conditioned living areas. 

Despite not using that much energy, whole-house fans are quite powerful. As long as the unit is the proper size for your home, it will be extremely effective at circulating air and drawing heat and pollution outside. In fact, the fans are so effective that they could quickly cause your home to get too cold at certain times of the year. In the early spring and late fall, you will usually want to shut the fan off as soon as it has cooled the home to the desired temperature. If you were to leave the fan on all night, you could easily wake up to find that the temperature in the home is 60 degrees or lower. 

While whole-house fans do have some limitations, they can still be a great way to lessen the wear and tear on your AC and reduce your energy costs. The fact that they draw so much air out of the house also makes them a quick and effective option for boosting indoor air quality. If you’re interested in learning more about whole-house fans or you need any heating or cooling service in the Bastrop or Round Rock areas, contact [company_name] today and we’ll be happy to help.

Air Filters in Bastrop, TX Air Filters in Bastrop, TX

How Often Should the HVAC Air Filters in Your Home Be Replaced?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on How Often Should the HVAC Air Filters in Your Home Be Replaced?

Changing out HVAC air filters before they’re too riddled with debris to permit normal airflow is absolutely essential. By staying on top of this easy and low-cost maintenance task, you can keep the heating and cooling equipment in your Bastrop, Texas home functioning as it should. However, although general recommendations suggest checking this component once every 30 days and replacing it every one to three months, the right filter change schedule for your household could be quite different.

Why General Recommendations Don’t Always Work

Basic recommendations for changing HVAC air filters are far too general to apply to all HVAC equipment types, households, and property locations. These recommendations assume that people are living on landscaped grounds, that they aren’t too near active construction, and that they don’t have one or more pets milling about the building. Factors like these can have a significant impact on how much debris your air filter collects and how often it reaches its limit. Other factors such as the number of people living in your home, whether or not residents smoke in the building, and the type and amount of humidity that’s present in your living environment matter too. 

What Does a Dirty HVAC Air Filter Look Like?

When performing monthly filter checks, you have to know what to look for. Airborne debris collects on HVAC air filters in the form of an increasingly thick, lint-like mat. These accumulations can look similar to the lint that collects on dryer screens. 

In some homes, even filters that have been in place for just one to two weeks can have visible build-ups of collected debris. Thus, it’s also important to know exactly how much filter debris is too much. Checking whether you can see through your filter when you hold it up to the overhead light is a quick trick for gauging its remaining lifespan. If the light shines right through an air filter, it still has a little life left in it. If collected debris is too thick to let any of the light shine through, it’s safe to assume that air will struggle to move through the filter as well. It’s also time for a new HVAC air filter if:

  • Collected debris falls off of or floats away from the filter when it’s removed
  • The filter is bent, warped, or the frame is broken
  • There’s moisture or discoloration on the filter
  • There are heavy build-ups of debris behind the filter and at your air vents

You should always put a fresh air filter in following any event that significantly lowers your home’s IAQ. For instance, if you host a dinner party that finishes with guests lighting cigars, have a small kitchen fire, or experience a minor indoor flood, changing your filter out will prevent pervasive and recurring odors, limit the likelihood of mold, and protect your HVAC equipment. 

How to Replace Your HVAC Air Filter

If you’re a new homeowner who’s never performed a filter change before, you can get helpful and needs-specific tips for completing this task during your next HVAC tune-up service. If you’re wholly intent on tackling this task on your own, take your old filter to a local home and hardware store to ensure that you get the right filter type and size. Before putting a new filter in, look for an airflow symbol or an arrow that indicates the right direction for insertion. Although both sides of an air filter can look much the same, one side of these components is always slightly rougher than the other. 

The rough, textured side of air filters is what captures and retains airborne particulates, and the smoother side of these components faces your heating or cooling equipment. Not only is it important to change your air filter regularly, but it’s also important to ensure that new filters are correctly and securely installed. Putting your air filter in backward, choosing an ill-fitting air filter, or putting your filter in the wrong place can be just as problematic as having a dirty air filter or absolutely no filter at all.

Different HVAC Air Filter Types

HVAC air filters come with different maximum efficiency reporting value (MERV) ratings, but they’re only available in two basic types. You can choose from non-pleated fiberglass filters or pleated air filters. Non-pleated fiberglass filters are the most economical option, but they typically last just 30 to 40 days. Pleated air filters cost a bit more, but these options can provide up to 90 days of reliable service in even busy, multi-resident homes.

If you opt to install a fiberglass air filter, you’ll need to check this component once every three to four weeks. You should also be sure to have at least three to four replacement filters on hand so that you’re never at risk of running out. This way, even when local home and hardware stores don’t have your preferred filters in stock, you’ll have plenty of replacements at home for the heating or cooling season. 

Household Factors That Impact Your Filter Change Schedule

Having a larger household often necessitates more frequent filter changes. After all, this means having more people engaging in steamy cooking projects, taking hot showers or baths, and shedding hair and dead skin. If you run your HVAC system often, checking your air filter monthly is an absolute must. However, if you toggle between your current home and a summer home or vacation property, you might be able to put filter changes off for as long as six months.

Other household factors that affect your filter change schedule include:

  • Having indoor pets
  • Regularly opening windows to let fresh, outside air flow in
  • Having a larger living area

When you know how household-specific factors affect your HVAC air filter and its lifespan, you can take steps to mitigate them individually. For instance, you can run your HVAC system in fan mode when opening your windows so that incoming air is constantly cleaned. You can also brush your pets on a regular basis to trap loose hairs and pet dander, and you can use a high-powered vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

Environmental Factors to Consider

Newer homes that haven’t been properly landscaped tend to have large amounts of dust blowing around in their back, front, and side yards. Unfortunately, this dust eventually finds its way inside buildings where it enters HVAC systems. You could also have problems with dust control if your street hosts a lot of traffic or if your property is within just one to two miles of a major freeway. 

General Health and Respiratory Issues

If there are aging adults, residents with compromised immunity, or newborn babies living in your home, it’s best to check your filter every two to four weeks and change it out as needed. This is also true if anyone in your household has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, allergies, or any other ongoing respiratory health issue.

We’re committed to helping residents of Bastrop, TX maintain safe, comfortable homes. We offer air conditioner, furnace, and heat pump installation, maintenance, and repair services. You can also turn to us for indoor air quality control and ductless mini-splits. If you need help changing or upgrading your HVAC air filter, or if you need an HVAC tune-up service, contact Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating today.

Couple in Home Scheduling Indoor Air Quality Service in Bastrop, TX Couple in Home Scheduling Indoor Air Quality Service in Bastrop, TX

How Often Should You Have Home Air Quality Tested?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on How Often Should You Have Home Air Quality Tested?

European and American studies reveal that 80% to 90% of our time is spent indoors. Time at home, time at work and school, and other indoor activities make it necessary to devote some thought to the air we breathe inside.

Indoor air pollutants such as allergens, volatile organic compounds, and other particulates circulate daily, potentially wreaking havoc on your health. Prolonged exposure to indoor air pollution can cause respiratory issues, fatigue, headaches, and other chronic conditions if contamination levels are not adequately addressed and reduced.

Contributing Factors to Poor Indoor Air Quality

Some of the most common contributing factors to poor indoor air quality in your home are surprisingly easy to fix. Taking quick action to reduce or eliminate these issues will protect your HVAC system, preserving your health and that of your loved ones. Here are some of the most common situations where indoor air quality would be impacted.

Poor Ventilation

A home that is locked up tight holds stagnant, saturated air that circulates through your system. Insufficient ventilation in your home leads to an excessive buildup of pollutants like carbon monoxide, radon, and volatile organic compounds. 

Mold and Moisture Buildup

Humid, damp conditions in your home will quickly lead to the growth of mold, mildew, and other harmful fungi that release spores. These spores are hazardous to your health, particularly for those with asthma or other pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Use of Household Chemicals

Common household cleaning agents, pesticides, air fresheners, perfumes, and body sprays can release volatile organic compounds into the air you breathe. All-natural cleaners such as essential oils, vinegar, and water reduce levels of harmful substances in your home.

Combustion Byproducts

Wood-burning fireplaces, gas stoves, and other off-gassing appliances release harmful particles into the air. Proper ventilation of your home is necessary to offset the effects of these devices.

Dust and Allergens

Pet dander, dust, and rodent droppings quickly accumulate in your home and ductwork, contributing to poor indoor air quality that causes uncomfortable symptoms.

Signs of poor indoor air quality include:

  • Sneezing, coughing
  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • Respiratory issues
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Trouble sleeping

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s time to consider having an indoor air quality assessment to ensure you provide the best indoor environment for you and your family.

What Is an Indoor Air Quality Test?

An indoor air quality test is a comprehensive assessment of the air quality in your home. Its purpose is to identify potential sources of indoor pollution and determine if the air is optimal to breathe.

Air tests involve the collection of several air samples that are analyzed in a laboratory for various contaminants and pollutants like radon, carbon monoxide, allergens, and dangerous chemicals present at unsafe levels. Air quality tests may also evaluate your home’s current temperature, humidity, and ventilation levels. These tests require a professional to collect and analyze the air to prevent accidental contamination.

Testing indoor air quality is done for distinct reasons, including identifying the source of health issues, evaluating the effectiveness of your HVAC filtration system, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. In addition, these tests provide valuable information to help you address and correct indoor air quality issues.

What Types of Indoor Air Quality Tests Are Available?

There are Indoor air quality tests for various pollutants and contaminants, even some you may not know exist.

Tests can be run for the following items:

  • Radon
  • Volatile organic compounds
  • Allergens
  • Mold and Mildew
  • Household chemicals

Professional services for indoor testing range from simple assessments to more in-depth evaluations. Experienced indoor air quality specialists can provide a detailed analysis of your home and identify the root causes of your quality issues.

Trained and certified professionals conduct indoor air quality testing using advanced methods. Simple testing kits only offer a small number of pollutant results, whereas a detailed professional test can accurately determine the full range of pollutants that are present in your indoor air. A trained professional usually conducts a site inspection at your home to identify potential sources of pollution like mold growth, water damage, and poor ventilation. Then, air and surface sampling will be performed to ensure that all areas of your home are in good condition and contribute to a healthy indoor environment.

Professional indoor air quality assessments include detailed reports that summarize the findings of the testing process and recommend steps for correcting deficiencies to improve your home environment.

How Often Should I Have Indoor Air Quality Tested?

The frequency at which you should have your indoor air quality tested depends on several factors. If you are experiencing symptoms or moving through some of these life situations, consider having your air quality tested as soon as possible.

Moving to a New Home

If your home has recently undergone renovations or you’ve moved into a new home, it’s a sensible idea to have a test performed to ensure that indoor air quality is safe to breathe.

Suffering From Health Issues and Concerns

If you or any household member has developed respiratory issues or other health problems related to poor indoor air quality, perform an air test to identify pollutants and rule out other probable causes of poor health. Finding the underlying cause of air quality issues and taking steps to correct them will be integral to protecting health in the future.

Planning for Regular HVAC Maintenance

As part of a home and HVAC maintenance plan, testing indoor air quality annually is the best defense for protecting your heating and cooling system and your health. In addition, this helps to identify and correct potential issues before you experience more severe consequences.

Special Circumstances

If you have pets, live with smokers, or use specific products in your home that release harmful byproducts, it may be necessary to have an indoor air quality test more often than once yearly. Certain circumstances contribute to excessive levels of pollution in the air, and doing what you can reduce and eliminate these situations will contribute to a cleaner home environment.

Choosing the Right Schedule for You

If you are unsure how often to schedule your indoor air quality test, start by speaking with an HVAC professional. Begin with an inspection and evaluation that will reveal the condition of your system and your home. Then, a qualified HVAC professional can recommend products and services that will improve your home’s comfort and efficiency and clean up indoor air quality in accessible and sustainable ways. Professionals can also recommend a periodic testing schedule.

Outstanding Indoor Air Quality Services

Providing exceptional services for valued customers in Bastrop and beyond, our team at Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating offers furnace and AC repair, installation, and maintenance as well as indoor air quality assessment and solutions. Your home’s comfort and energy efficiency are our top priorities. If you suspect air quality issues in your home, contact us today for an assessment and recommendations that will improve your indoor environment and protect your family.

Forced Air vs. Central Air: What’s the Difference?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning, Blog. No Comments on Forced Air vs. Central Air: What’s the Difference?

And, More Importantly, Which One Is Right for Me?

Do you speak fluent HVAC? If you do, you probably already know that HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and cooling. You also might know the difference between a forced air system and a central air system.

However, if HVAC is still a foreign language for you, don’t worry! The team at Blue Ribbon is always here to translate and patiently answer your questions.

So, let’s get started with your first class in HVAC 101.

Traditionally, forced air refers to your heating system and central air refers to your AC. Keep in mind, though, that these terms are often used interchangeably because your central air system uses the forced air system’s vents and ducts to deliver cool air into your home.

Defining Each System

A forced air system starts with your furnace or heat pump, sending temperature-controlled air into your home using the air ducts and vents.

A central air system produces hot or cold air in a central location and delivers it into your home. For example, your air conditioner creates cool air in the unit located outside of your home and then uses the condenser, compressor and evaporator coils to send the air inside of your home through the ducts and vents.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Forced Air?

The Pros: Energy bills tend to be lower and comfort levels tend to be higher with a forced air system. It can easily be paired with a smart thermostat. It can also boost the value of your home because it’s in high demand.

The Cons: Forced air systems can be more expensive, especially when combined with a central AC unit. They can be noisier and require more maintenance, including changing the filter every few months and sealing and cleaning ducts every few years.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Central Air?

The Pros: Central air systems are quiet, highly efficient and require little maintenance. They also can filter out dust, allergens, harmful gases and humidity, helping to keep your air clean.

The Cons: These systems can cost more to install, especially if your home lacks the proper ductwork and furnace for the air system to work properly. They also can result in higher energy bills. And even though it requires little maintenance, a central air system should be cleaned at least once every year to prevent bacteria and mold from building up in the vents and ducts.

So, Which System Is Right for My Home?

If your home’s indoor air is extremely humid, a forced air system might be the right choice for you. If your home includes a properly functioning air duct system, a central air system might be the right call.

Of course, there are many factors you should consider, including cost. At Blue Ribbon, we have the training and expertise to assess your indoor space and other important data before giving you our professional opinion about the best choice for you. Once you decide, we’ll be more than happy to provide you with a seamless installation.

If you would like our help choosing a forced air or central air system or if you need any of our other outstanding services, call us at 512.866.9151 or contact us through the convenient form on our website.

Mini-Split System Installed in Austin, TX Mini-Split System Installed in Austin, TX

Is a Mini-Split a Good Alternative to Installing a Central HVAC System?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on Is a Mini-Split a Good Alternative to Installing a Central HVAC System?

Ductless mini-splits are a relatively new addition to the HVAC industry, and, as such, there is a lot that most people don’t know about these systems and how they work. A mini-split is a type of heat pump that uses refrigerant to bring heat into the home or to remove heat from the inside to help keep the home cool. In a central HVAC system, one air handler is responsible for circulating hot and cold air into the ductwork and throughout the home. Mini-splits are different in that they don’t need ductwork, as each room has its own air handler that supplies hot and cold air to that room only. 

The heat transfer process that mini-splits use makes them much more energy efficient than having a central AC unit and a furnace. Mini-splits are far more efficient than furnaces and will use much less energy. The energy efficiency of a central AC unit and a mini-split is usually about the same. However, mini-splits don’t have issues with energy waste due to leaky ductwork like most central HVAC systems do. All this being said, mini-splits still aren’t always the best option, so we will look at the different factors you should consider when determining whether a mini-split or a central HVAC system is the better choice.

Installation Cost and Space Requirements

A central HVAC system will always take up more room and be more expensive and time-consuming to install. Trying to install a central HVAC system in an existing home that doesn’t already have ductwork could be a nightmare and involve some serious construction and renovations. As such, you would be better off choosing a mini-split if your home doesn’t have an existing central HVAC system. 

Installing a mini-split is fairly simple, and the entire process can usually be done in just a day or two, depending on how many total air handlers you need. After mounting the mini-split heat pump outside, the technician only needs to cut a small hole in the exterior wall where each air handler unit will be mounted. This hole is used to run the refrigerant lines between the indoor and outdoor units and also the condensate drain tube so that the air handler can drain outside. 

On the other hand, if your home does have a central HVAC system, then there are only a few situations where installing a mini-split would make sense. For instance, a mini-split can be a good choice if you’re adding to your home, as it can heat and cool the new area without decreasing the effectiveness of your central HVAC system. If you were to run ductwork to your new addition and connect it to your central HVAC system, you would usually need to upgrade to larger central HVAC units to ensure the system still heats and cools effectively. This is important to consider, as installing new HVAC units and new ductwork will usually add much more to the project’s total cost than installing a mini-split. 

Mini-splits are also ideal for areas like garages and other rooms not connected to the central HVAC system. They can also be a great choice if you have rooms that always stay too hot or cold and you need to supplement the heating and cooling in that area. 

New Construction Projects

If you plan on building a new home, we recommend installing a central HVAC system. Even though it will take up more room due to the ductwork, a central HVAC system will still heat and cool your home more effectively. We would also almost always recommend opting for a heat pump instead of a furnace and air conditioner, as heat pumps can heat and cool as a mini-split can. 

Part of the reason for this is that mini-splits can be quite expensive. If you’re looking to heat and cool an entire home with a mini-split system, the system will usually cost a few thousand dollars more than a new heat pump. Depending on the size of the home, you may also need to install two mini-split systems, as these systems do have some specific limitations. 

Mini-Split Advantages and Drawbacks

The biggest advantage of a mini-split is the ease of installation, which is why they are generally always the better choice if your home doesn’t have an existing central HVAC system. Another major benefit of a mini-split system is that each air handler has its own independent temperature controls. This lets you set different temperatures for each room without affecting the rest of the building. However, you can do the same thing with a central HVAC system by installing a zoning system and multiple thermostats to adjust the temperature for different areas independently. 

One issue with mini-splits is that you are usually somewhat limited by where each air handler can be mounted. A mini-split can also only accommodate a certain number of air handlers, usually between four and eight, depending on the size of the system. Both of these reasons help to explain why it is often necessary to have two or more mini-splits if you want to heat and cool the entire home.

The mini-split heat pump is only so powerful and can only pump the refrigerant for a certain distance. This means that each air handler must typically be no further than 50 to 150 feet from the outdoor unit, depending on its power. This typically isn’t as big of an issue for multi-story homes, but it can create problems if you have a single-level home that is much more spread out, as you will often need separate systems installed on each side of the house. 

Another issue to consider is that mini-splits don’t always provide as much heating in cold weather and will occasionally need to defrost. When the unit does defrost, you will be stuck without heat until the cycle finishes and the system starts heating again. This typically isn’t a major issue in Texas since the weather rarely gets below freezing, but it is still something to consider. 

Central heat pumps also need to defrost occasionally in freezing weather. However, you won’t be left without heat whenever the unit does need to defrost, unlike how it would be with a mini-split. The reason is that most heat pump systems also have a supplementary electric resistance heater that will run whenever the unit is defrosting or whenever your home is really cold and much more heat is required. 

If you’re still trying to decide between a mini-split and a central HVAC system, you can count on the Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating team for help. We install and service almost all types of HVAC units, including mini-splits, heat pumps, central ACs, and furnaces, and we also specialize in indoor air quality services. For more information or to schedule any heating or cooling service in the Bastrop area, give us a call today.

AC Maintenance in Bastrop, TX AC Maintenance in Bastrop, TX

Help Your Air Conditioner Keep You Cool and Comfortable This Summer Season

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on Help Your Air Conditioner Keep You Cool and Comfortable This Summer Season

Summer is the season many people look forward to because it is full of fun activities. It is an opportunity to spend time outdoors on the longest days of the year. This season also brings heat and humidity that we want to avoid indoors. With the summer heat just around the corner, HVAC professionals are busy inspecting homes to ensure families have a cool and comfortable season.

To prepare your air conditioning system for the summer, you must keep some important points in mind. Continue reading to find out what you can do to prepare your home for a cool summer season!

Schedule an Inspection With Your HVAC Company

Before doing anything to your air conditioning system, the first step is to call your trusted HVAC company for a professional inspection. It needs regular maintenance for your air conditioning system to work optimally all year long. This will ensure that your system is effective while staying energy efficient.

Consistent maintenance on your system also prolongs its life and prevents costly repairs. During the appointment, let the HVAC professional know anything unusual you have noticed with your system. Perhaps you have heard a noise or detected an odor coming from the vents or unit. The visit is also an opportunity to ask questions such as how to program the humidity settings.

A comprehensive HVAC maintenance visit includes a full inspection, cleaning the vents and other components, assessing wear and tear, and repairing or replacing anything damaged or missing.

Ensure All Ductwork Is Intact and Clean

Your home’s air conditioning system includes the ductwork that runs through your house. The ductwork distributes the air to various parts of the home. A thorough inspection includes checking for any leaks or damaged parts. Ignoring these details can make your air conditioning system less energy efficient.

Leaks will make your HVAC system work harder to maintain the set temperature. It will certainly amount to higher energy costs. Leaks can also introduce dirt and moisture into the ductwork. The dirt can restrict airflow, and moisture contributes to mold growth. Both these conditions can dramatically lower your indoor comfort.

To ensure your air conditioning system works optimally this summer, be sure an HVAC professional repairs all holes, cracks, or loose connections in your ductwork.

Check Your Filter

Generally, most HVAC manufacturers recommend changing your filter every 90 days. However, you must check the brand and model of your HVAC system because not all of them are the same. An HVAC professional can guide you so that you can know the correct filter instructions.

Other things that impact how often you should change your filter are the age of your system, if your home has pets, and the type of climate where you reside. Some places are dusty and dry while others are hot are humid.

Quality indoor air can help prevent your family from developing allergies or respiratory conditions. Filters capture dust, debris, and other particles. Dirty filters can make your HVAC system lose efficiency. Changing your filter is an easy step you can take to ensure you breathe healthy air.

Check the Condition of Your Thermostat

The thermostat is one of the most important components of your air conditioning system. It is responsible for regulating the temperature of your home. When it malfunctions, your AC system will not cool your home accurately.

If you have an older HVAC system, chances are that you have a manual thermostat, which has fewer features. Consider installing an upgrade that features a programmable thermostat. This feature allows you to set the desired temperature in your home on an automatic schedule.

These are some signs that your thermostat is not working properly:

  • Has no power
  • You cannot turn on or off the AC or heat
  • Not reading the correct temperature
  • Not unresponsive
  • Short cycling
  • Forgets programmed settings

Let your HVAC professional know if you have noticed any of these signs and how often it occurs.

Clean the Condenser Coils

Your AC must have intact and clean condenser coils to keep up with the summer heat. These components transfer heat from your home and drive it into the outside air. When condenser coils become clogged or dirty, your HVAC system will not be efficient, meaning it must work harder and cost more to operate.

An HVAC professional cleans the coils during a maintenance appointment. It is not recommended to attempt this task on your own. Professionals have the appropriate tools for the job. A soft brush or cloth gently removes dust, debris, or dirt. An HVAC professional can unclog coils using a special cleaner.

Be Sure Your Air Vents Are Clean

Your air vents are on the walls, floors, or ceilings of your home. They are the last air conditioning system component that distributes the cool air inside a room. These parts must be thoroughly cleaned from dust and anything that may accumulate on them.

The air vents are typically cleaned by beginning the process with a vacuum cleaner to suction any large particles and dust bunnies. Then, a soft cloth or brush cleans them well. If necessary, you may need to unscrew some air vents for deeper cleaning and reinstall them. Be sure to receive the guidance of your HVAC company before attempting this task yourself.

Check Coolant Lines

Finally, during a maintenance visit, the technician will check the coolant lines to prepare your air conditioning system for summer. The HVAC professional will check pipes and refrigerant tubes that connect your AC system’s evaporator on the air handler to the outdoor condenser.

These important lines have foam coolant insulation around them. Sometimes the insulation gets damaged or is missing. If so, replacing the insulation with new foam sleeves or wrapping them with foam insulation tape is necessary.

Check for Signs of Low Refrigerant Levels

It may be possible that your system’s refrigerant level is running low. If that happens, you may notice no or insufficient cooling. Look for these common signs that suggest your refrigerant levels are running low.

Your HVAC System Is Making an Unusual Noise

You will quickly notice when your HVAC system is making an unfamiliar noise. If you hear hissing or bubbling, the air conditioning refrigerant may be leaking. A hissing noise may mean that the refrigerant is escaping in gas form. In comparison, a bubbling sound may be an indication that the refrigerant is escaping in liquid form.

Presence of Frost or Ice

A low refrigerant level can cause the temperature to excessively decrease, causing a buildup of frost or ice on the refrigerant lines or evaporator coil.

Higher Energy Costs

If your utility bill is higher than usual, it may be due to a refrigerant leak. The system won’t be able to remove as much heat during a cycle, which requires the system to run longer to achieve the set temperature.

Choose a Trusted HVAC Company

For more than 20 years, Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating has provided excellent service to Bastrop, TX and the surrounding area. Our team has highly trained professionals with the hands-on experience to ensure your HVAC system is ready for summer.

We also provide maintenance to your furnace to prepare your home for cold winter days. At Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, our team is also trained to help you improve your indoor air quality. Ask us how! To prepare your air conditioning system for the summer, call Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating today!

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How Often Should a Mechanical Ventilation System Be Cleaned

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on How Often Should a Mechanical Ventilation System Be Cleaned

Having adequate ventilation in the home is important as it helps to lower indoor air pollution and bring fresh air inside. In most older homes, the only type of ventilation you’ll find are bathroom exhaust fans that draw heat and steam outside and kitchen exhaust hoods that draw out smoke and pollutants from cooking. Older homes typically don’t need additional ventilation as the exterior structure isn’t all that well sealed, which means that air can easily flow in and out through gaps in the structure. 

Newer homes are typically much more well-built and have an exterior envelope that is almost completely airtight. While this is great in terms of energy efficiency, it can also create issues with high humidity and indoor air pollution. As such, many newer homes require some type of mechanical ventilation system that will occasionally run to draw the stale, polluted air out of the building and bring fresh, clean air inside. If your home does have any type of mechanical ventilation such as an energy recovery ventilator (ERV), heat recovery ventilator (HRV), or whole-house fan, it is always a good idea to have the system fully cleaned twice a year. 

Why Cleaning Mechanical Ventilators Is Important

Most mechanical ventilation systems are fairly similar in design. They have one internal fan that spins clockwise to draw air out of the building and a second fan that spins counterclockwise to bring air in from outside. These systems also have internal filters that are designed to trap any allergens and other airborne particles from the incoming air stream, which is important as the system would otherwise bring in lots of pollen, dust, etc. However, the filters aren’t all that effective and are mostly designed to prevent dust and debris from damaging any of the system’s internal components.  

This filter should generally always be cleaned or replaced twice a year as otherwise it can become clogged. If the filter does get clogged, it can result in almost no air being brought inside. A clogged filter will also make the fans work much harder and could cause a fan motor to burn out or the system to fail much more quickly. 

Even though the filter should trap most dust and larger particles, some will always still get inside the system. Over time, the dust can build up on the fan blades and other components to where the fans start spinning much more slowly or won’t spin at all. If the fan blades can’t spin, then the fan motor could quickly start to overheat and possibly burn out. This is why it is also important to have the system fully cleaned out every six months as it ensures that the system is working correctly and helps to prevent most issues. 

Whole-house fans are slightly different as they only have one large fan that is installed in the attic. This fan draws stale air out of the building and pumps it outside. However, a whole-house fan only works when you have at least one or two windows open as it needs to create a strong draft that pulls air in from outside. If all of the windows were closed, the system wouldn’t be effective as it would have no way to bring fresh air in. 

In cooler climates, whole-house fans typically only need to be cleaned and serviced once a year since they are mostly only used during the warmer months. However, in Texas, you may want to have your fan serviced every six months since you may use it throughout most of the year. 

How Do Mechanical Ventilation Systems Work

Energy recovery ventilators and heat recovery ventilators don’t simply bring air in from outside. If they did, then the incoming air would quickly cause your home to heat up during the warmer months and cool down the home in the winter. To prevent this, both ERVs and HRVs work to capture heat from either the incoming or outgoing air stream and transfer it to the other stream. 

During warmer weather, the heat from the incoming air is removed and transferred to the outgoing air to ensure the incoming air doesn’t heat up the home and force your air conditioning system to work harder. The process works oppositely during colder weather as the heat from the outgoing stream is used to raise the temperature of the air being drawn inside. 

The fact that ERVs and HRVs essentially preheat or precool the air coming into the home means they can help improve air quality without increasing the strain on your heating and cooling system. As such, having one of these systems will often help to slightly lower your energy costs. This is one of the reasons that these systems are typically a better option than whole-house fans. 

A whole-house fan is mostly only ever used during the evenings when the weather cools down or else they would bring in lots of heat and humidity. These systems should also only be used when your HVAC system isn’t running, as having your heat or AC on with the windows open would waste lots of energy. 

HRVs can only capture heat and are usually only used in areas where the outdoor humidity level always stays fairly low. If you were to use an HRV in a more humid area, it would bring in lots of moisture and quickly lead to the humidity level inside the home becoming much too high. This is why ERVs are always the better choice in humid climates as they can also capture humidity.

During the warmer, more humid parts of the year, an ERV absorbs humidity from the incoming air and pumps it back outside. During the colder times when your heating system is on, the ERV will absorb any remaining moisture from the outgoing air to help keep the home from becoming too dry. 

Both ERVs and HRVs are typically installed in either the basement or the attic. These systems usually have their own ductwork to draw stale air out of some parts of the home and bring fresh air into other rooms, but they can also be set up to use your existing HVAC ducts. 

For systems with their own dedicated ductwork, the exhaust vents where the air is drawn out are usually located in places like your kitchen, laundry room, and bathrooms. The intake vents that supply fresh air are usually located in bedrooms and living rooms. However, both the intake and exhaust vents can really be placed anywhere depending on the specific needs of the home. 

Expert HVAC Services

If you’re looking for ways to improve your home’s air quality, a mechanical ventilation system can be a great choice. At [company_name], we can help if you’re looking to upgrade your home with a mechanical ventilation system or other indoor air quality units like a humidifier, dehumidifier, air purifier, or air filtration system. We also specialize in a full range of other HVAC services, and our expert technicians repair, service, and install air conditioners, heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, and furnaces. For more information or to schedule any indoor air quality or HVAC service in the Round Rock or Bastrop areas, give us a call today.

5 Reasons Your AC System Might Ice Up

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning, Blog. No Comments on 5 Reasons Your AC System Might Ice Up

We Can Fix This Problem—And Even Prevent It From Happening

It won’t be long before it’s blazing hot again in our area, which means we’ll all be running our air conditioners practically around the clock. When we do that, we run the risk of seeing ice start to build up on our units.

Why does this happen and what should you do about it? Your trusted friends at Blue Ribbon will provide you with the answers you need when you discover your AC freezing up. Ultimately, taking swift action will be the key to preventing costly repairs and keeping your system running as smoothly as possible, for as long as possible.

Here are 5 common reasons that your AC system will ice up:

  1. Inadequate Airflow: This problem occurs when damaged air ducts or another issue prevent the warm air inside of your home from flowing over the evaporator coils. The result? Condensation. As your compressor continues to run, the water droplets can turn to ice. One of our trained and skilled experts can check your ductwork for leaks or blockages and fix the problem—fast.
  2. A Dirty Air Filter: When you don’t clean or replace your air filter, it can become dirty and clogged. The result? You guessed it! Ice build-up on the evaporator coil. Keeping your air filter clean will prevent this problem. Standard air filters should be replaced every two to three months. If you’re a member of our Blue Ribbon Champion Plan, we’ll inspect the cleanliness of your air filter during your 21-point cooling tune-up.
  3. Low Refrigerant Levels: Two more situations where ice can form: Your AC refrigerant levels are low or your system is leaking refrigerant. A leak is usually the reason your refrigerant level gets low. At Blue Ribbon, we’ll find the leak and get your system running smoothly again.
  4. A Faulty Blower Fan: When the blower fan is damaged, it can restrict airflow to the point where the coil freezes up. If you think this is the problem, it’s important that you call us. A damaged blower fan can lead to other problems with your HVAC system.
  5. A Clogged Condensate Drain Line: To operate properly, your AC system transfers heat from inside of your home to the outside. Moisture from this air creates condensation, which leaves your home via the condensate drain line. If the drain becomes clogged, the drip tray could overflow. And if your evaporator coil is too cold, this water could freeze. Blue Ribbon can flush and clear your condensate drain line, eliminating this problem.

Do you need our help dealing with ice build-up at your home? Use our convenient form or call us at 512.308.3515.

Here’s an added tip: You could most likely avoid ice build-up and many other repair problems when you schedule routine maintenance for your system. To make it easy and to enjoy added benefits, we encourage you to sign up for our routine maintenance plan, the Blue Ribbon Champion Plan.

Smart Thermostat in Bastrop, TX Smart Thermostat in Bastrop, TX

Easy Ways to Tell If Your Thermostat Is Working Properly

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on Easy Ways to Tell If Your Thermostat Is Working Properly

At the heart of your Bastrop home’s HVAC system is the thermostat. Without a thermostat, it would be very hard to ever get your home comfortable. Sometimes, though, it can seem as if your thermostat is working against you because your home is uncomfortable despite what the thermostat indicates. To prevent wasted energy and other problems, it’s important to test your thermostat to ensure that it’s working properly and maintaining the correct temperature in your residence. Here are a few tips from Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating to help you do just that.

Understand How Your Thermostat Works

To monitor for proper thermostat operation, it’s important to first understand how thermostats work. There are two main types of thermostats: non-programmable and programmable. Programmable thermostats allow you to set your HVAC system so that your home reaches certain temperatures at specific times. Manual thermostats allow you to set one temperature that your system will maintain until you select a different temperature.

Some types of thermostats use a device called a bi-metallic strip to detect the temperature. The metals in the bi-metallic strip expand and contract at predictable rates as the temperature changes. These expansions and contractions either close or open an electrical circuit so that your thermostat can trigger your HVAC system to turn on or off. Other types of thermostats use wax reservoirs or gas-filled bellows, though these tend to react less predictably and aren’t as common in today’s thermostats.

Check Battery Levels

Maintaining good battery levels is an important part of making sure that your thermostat is working properly. You’ll typically find batteries in programmable thermostats. These thermostats need batteries in addition to the power they receive from your HVAC system to allow them to remember the settings you choose. You’ll also find them in many manual thermostats.

If it seems that your thermostat’s performance is degrading over time, it’s a good idea to check the batteries first. Since batteries can last a long time in a thermostat, they may begin to corrode before they lose power. If the batteries are corroded or lacking power, you will need to replace them and then check to see if your thermostat begins working correctly. To maintain good ongoing thermostat operation, try to replace your thermostat’s batteries about once a year.

Use a Separate Thermometer

Since your thermostat needs to be able to sense the temperature, it’s important to make sure that the temperature it’s sensing is correct. One of the easiest ways to do this is to mount a separate thermometer near the thermostat and then check to see if the two devices agree. Ideally, you’ll want the two devices to register the same temperature. However, because of differences in temperature sensing, the two devices may differ by a couple of degrees even if they’re both working properly. If you notice a separation that’s any larger than that, it’s a good idea to give Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating a call to allow us to look into this discrepancy.

Check for Recovery Mode

When your home isn’t at the temperature you expect, it’s important to figure out whether this is a short-term or long-term problem. If you’ve only noticed the temperature issues recently, you may want to make sure that your HVAC system isn’t in recovery mode when you’re noticing problems.

Recovery mode is a function of programmable thermostats that engages your HVAC system prior to the time you’ve programmed it for. Thermostats do this to ensure that your home will be at the correct temperature at the time you selected. If the system only turned on at the selected time, it could take quite a while for your home to reach the desired temperature after your arrival. However, if you get home before the recovery mode is finished, it may seem as though your thermostat is malfunctioning because the system will be running, but your home won’t be at the correct temperature yet.

Look at Your Utility Bills

In some cases, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause your system to work overtime, resulting in a sudden spike in your utility bills. When you call Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, we can come to your home and look at your thermostat to ensure that it’s not malfunctioning and causing your HVAC system to run longer than necessary. Since there are a few components in your HVAC system that can cause higher utility bills when they malfunction, this is an investigation best left to the professionals. If you do notice higher utility bills, act quickly before the problem becomes more pronounced.

Check for Corrosion

While not all thermostats use metal resistors to detect the temperature in your home, the models that do are at risk for potential corrosion. This won’t happen overnight, but over many years of use, the resistors in a thermostat can corrode, significantly decreasing their ability to expand and contract following predictable algorithms. Eventually, this could cause your thermostat to turn your HVAC system on and off at the wrong times because the thermostat doesn’t know the actual temperature in your home. Since thermostats do use an electrical current to operate, it’s best to let a trained technician from Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating inspect your thermostat to see if it needs to be replaced.

Thermostat Replacement

Newer thermostats, called smart thermostats, have many incredible features that make it easy to keep your home comfortable. In certain cases, the fancy features you’ll find on a smart thermostat can take a little extra time to learn. For example, many smart thermostats can operate in a mode where they learn your living patterns so that they can turn your HVAC system on and off at the correct times without you having to program those times. If you’re not familiar with that mode of operation, it can seem as though your new thermostat isn’t operating properly. That’s why it’s important to read any manuals that come with your new thermostat.

Of course, if you have any questions that you can’t answer by reading the manual, you can always give us at Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating a call for assistance.

Proper Placement

One final variable that you can check is the placement of the thermostat. Specifically, check to see if the thermostat is located close to a window where it could receive direct sunlight. Keep in mind that as the Earth revolves around the sun, the angles of the sun coming into your home will change, meaning that your thermostat may not receive direct sunlight all through the year. In this case, your thermostat may be inaccurate for part of the year and completely correct for the remainder of the year. If this happens, you’ll want to work with Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating to find a new location for your thermostat.

Your Home Comfort Specialists

At Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, we take pride in our ability to help our customers in the Bastrop, Texas area maintain high levels of comfort in their homes. That’s why we install, maintain, and repair air conditioners, furnaces, indoor air quality equipment, and much more.

Since our founding over 20 years ago, we’ve been working hard to treat every customer with the utmost respect. That’s one big reason why we continually receive five-star customer reviews. To learn more about proper thermostat operation, be sure to contact us at Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating today.