Author: Kevin

What It Really Means to Have Someone There, Day Or Night

Air conditioners and heaters don’t look out for us the way friends do. They’ll shut down whenever they want to, regardless of whether it’s 2 o’clock in the afternoon or 3 o’clock in the morning. That’s why it’s important to know whether your local HVAC company offers 24/7 emergency services. Otherwise, you might find yourself in a pickle on a sweltering summer night.

At Blue Ribbon, we are proud to be there for our customers 24/7. Whether you’re facing a midnight emergency or a midday meltdown due to a broken air conditioner, there’s no need to sweat it. We’re on standby every day, hour and minute of the year. Beyond the obvious benefit of having 24/7 access to repair service, we want to dive deeper and share what this value looks like for our customers.

1. The promise of a good night’s sleep. The sun is just starting to set when you realize the air conditioner isn’t working. You have a big presentation at work tomorrow and can’t afford to stay up half the night. If your go-to company only works during normal business hours, you’re in for a rough evening. We all know how tough it is to sleep in this kind of heat. This is something you’ll never have to worry about with us. Our 24/7 service ensures a fast response time that won’t keep you waiting. When you have something important the next day and need a good night’s rest, you can count on us to quickly step in and take care of everything. 
2. The party that can carry on. In a climate like ours, air conditioning is essential for an enjoyable summer gathering. If you wake up to a broken air conditioner and the party’s just hours away, call us at 512.308.3515. We’ll do everything in our power to get your air conditioning up and running before guests arrive. The same can’t be said for other companies that work normal business hours and have limited weekend hours.   
3. Having complete peace of mind. When it comes to home comfort, you can never feel fully at peace without 24/7 service. The advantage of working with our crew is that you’ll never have to wonder whether we’re available to fix your equipment. We are always on standby and keep our vehicles fully stocked to ensure fast, efficient repairs and replacements. Even if you never need us to fix your equipment in the middle of the night, you’ll always feel better knowing we offer it.
4. No fiddling with equipment and making the problem worse. The faster we’re able to arrive for service, the less likely people are to try to fix the problem themselves. While we’re all for do-it-yourself projects, a broken air conditioner isn’t one of them. When left to their own devices, people will sometimes try to fiddle with their equipment to see if this or that fixes it. Unfortunately, this often exacerbates the original problem and makes it more expensive to fix. By offering 24/7 services, we’re able to assure our customers that help is on the way and there’s no need (or reason!) to touch anything. For your own safety, you should never try to fix a heater or air conditioner unless you’re a trained professional. We will respond swiftly and get your system back on its feet in no time.

Live More & Stress Less With Blue Ribbon 

As a home service company, we feel it’s our duty to make people’s lives easier and better however we can. After more than 40 years in the industry, we know one of the best ways to do that is by offering 24/7 HVAC service. This is what our customers need to truly feel at peace and know just how much we care about their safety and wellbeing. Actions always speak louder than words and we’re proud to let customers know we’re here for them no matter what.

If you have a cooling emergency at any point this summer, call Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating at 512.308.3515. To schedule additional service, such as AC replacement or home air purification in Hays County and the surrounding areas, please give us a call or connect with us online. Take care and enjoy the rest of your summer!   

Time to Upgrade? Make Sure You Know This First

We love to rate things in life. Movies, restaurants, books—even our teachers! Well, the heating and cooling industry is no different. 

Have you ever heard the term “SEER” but you weren’t sure what it meant? It’s a type of rating for air conditioners, heat pumps and ductless mini split ACs—something every homeowner should know about.

The Higher the SEER, the Higher the Savings

“SEER” stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. It’s a rating that’s determined by taking the total cooling output of an air conditioner over the course of a cooling season and dividing it by the total amount of energy the system uses. In other words, the SEER of an AC tells you how efficient the unit is. The higher the SEER, the more money you will save over time to cool your home. One way to think about SEER is by comparing it to a car. Just as the most efficient cars allow you to travel the farthest with the least amount of gas, the most efficient air conditioners provide the highest cooling output while consuming the least amount of energy.

Other Facts to Know

• Currently, SEER ratings range from about 13 to 21. The U.S. Department of Energy sets minimum SEER requirements for air conditioning manufacturers. An AC that falls closer to 13 is considered less efficient and a system that’s at or near 21 is highly efficient.
• Choosing the right SEER for your home comes down to a number of factors, including your budget, cooling preferences, home layout and more. During an on-site consultation, we’ll happily discuss your options and tell you the differences you can expect with either a higher or lower SEER. It’s also worth mentioning that older units still running today typically fall at around 8 SEER. So even if you go with the lowest SEER requirement, it will still be an improvement from your outdated, inefficient air conditioner.
• Units with higher SEER ratings often come with additional features, such as multi-stage cooling. This means your air conditioner will stay on longer rather than constantly turning on and off. This not only helps you save more energy and money, but it also results in a more even, consistent temperature.

Choose ‘Best in Show’ Comfort With Blue Ribbon

There’s a whole list of HVAC terms that the average homeowner just doesn’t know. Knowing how important the SEER rating actually is for improving your comfort and minimizing your expenses, we wanted you to know what the term entails. 

Is there another HVAC-related word or term you’d like to know more about? Send us a message and we’ll get right back to you! As your local heating and cooling partner, we’re here to provide the tools and resources you need to make informed decisions for your home. You don’t deserve anything less!

To schedule AC service, including heat pump repair, for your home in Bastrop, TX, or elsewhere in the Greater Austin Metro area, contact us online or call Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating at 512.308.3515 today! 

7 HVAC Tips You Can’t Afford to Miss

Did you recently purchase a new home? If so, let us offer our congratulations! A new home can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. But it’s still something to celebrate as it will most likely be the biggest investment of your lifetime. So, to help ease the stress that accompanies this extra responsibility, we thought we’d offer some guidance. As both homeowners and HVAC providers, Blue Ribbon has some professional insight for new homeowners. If you’re ready for a mini-tutorial, we’ve got all of your tips right here. As always, from heat pump repair to AC maintenance and more, our team is just a text or phone call away.

The ABCs of Home Ownership

So your settlement date is set, your inspection is complete and your move-in day is quickly approaching. You’re as excited as can be! Here are seven things to know as you navigate your new role of home ownership.

1. Know your HVAC system.

Not all HVAC systems are created equal. It’s critical to learn if you have a heat pump, a furnace, a mini-split system, boiler or something totally different. Once you understand what type of system your home has, you can begin learning your system’s basic needs. Still have questions? That’s why Blue Ribbon is here! Call our crew for assistance.

2. Register your equipment.

Did you buy a newly constructed home? Don’t forget to register your new HVAC system. This ensures you’ll have the manufacturer warranty to rely on if something unexpected happens. If you purchased an already lived-in home, be sure to ask if the HVAC system warranty can be transferred to your name. This could save you lots of money down the road.

3. Check those filters.

Do you have pets? Is your home in a construction zone? These are just two reasons you might need to change your air filters more often. Changing filters every 60 to 90 days is the typical recommendation. But areas with higher pollution (construction dust, etc.), homes with multiple pets or regular smokers will benefit from more regular changes. Questions? Our air filter experts are only a phone call away.

4. Sign up for a maintenance plan.

Just as your car runs more efficiently after its 5,000-mile checkup, your HVAC system will operate at a higher level if it’s given the annual TLC it needs. Our maintenance checks will prevent breakdowns, reduce the need for repairs, increase the lifespan of your system, give you more consistent comfort, save you money and so much more!

5. Get a ductwork inspection.

Got ducts? You may want to consider a quick check if it wasn’t covered in your home inspection. Holes in your ductwork can lead to inefficient heating and cooling and increase your energy bills. If you have concerns about your ductwork, call us. Our techs will do a thorough inspection and give you a full report.

6. Get familiar with your new home.

Take a walk around your new home and inspect the airflow once you turn on your system. Be sure you’re not experiencing warm and cool spots. If you are, call Blue Ribbon stat!

7. Adjust your thermostat by two degrees.

In the summer months, bump your cooling temperature up two degrees. In the winter, turn your heat down two degrees. According to the Department of Energy, this small adjustment can save you money on your heating and cooling costs each year. Even better, if you turn your thermostat back seven to 10 degrees for eight hours a day (when you’re not home), you’ll save 10% each year on energy costs!

Craving More Cool Tips?

As the weather warms up here in Bastrop County, you might soon find yourself needing cool tips on things like ductless mini-split AC, AC replacement or indoor air quality. Whatever professional HVAC assistance you need, Blue Ribbon is Bastrop County’s top choice for all things heating, cooling and IAQ. Schedule your service today!

Your Indoor Air Could Be Much Cleaner

Pets are the best. After a long day at work, arriving home to a tail-wagging pup or an affectionate cat is one of the best medicines there is. For all of the unconditional love and joy our pets give us, we should be truly grateful.

In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything negative about pet ownership. Oops. Well, there is the pet hair! But if the only “bad thing” about pet ownership is the extra fur around your home, we have solutions. In fact, Blue Ribbon is not just top notch at delivering AC repair. We also can come to your rescue when your home needs fresher, cleaner air.

Is My Indoor Air Compromised?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air quality ranks in the top five when it comes to environmental dangers. When you consider people spend about 85% of their time inside, you should definitely be more concerned about your IAQ. So, rather than blame the dog for all that dander in your home, how about tackling the problem head on and investing in your health?

Do you or anyone in your family regularly experience any of the following symptoms?

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Dry skin and throat
• Itchy eyes and nose 
• Excessive sneezing
• Coughing
• Heightened allergies
• Breathing problems
• Poor sleep

If you answered yes, we’d recommend calling Blue Ribbon to get your indoor air tested. We have IAQ experts who can evaluate your home’s IAQ and recommend clean solutions to freshen up your air!

We offer:

• Air purifiers. These systems remove harmful airborne particles, such as pollen, bacteria and dust.
• Dehumidifiers. Too much moisture in your home can cause mold, water stains, musty smells and window condensation. Dehumidifiers control this excessive moisture.
• Air filtration systems. Air filtration systems can filter out dirt, pollen, pet dander and more. UV light systems even zap bacteria and viruses!

Breathe Healthier Today!

Ready to reduce pet dander, zap viruses and eliminate allergens inside your home? Call our team today! From installing energy efficient AC systems to freshening up that indoor air quality, Blue Ribbon is here for you!

Showing Your Indoor Space Some Love Is Step One!

Well, we’ve made it to February, which means we can say goodbye to the long, dreary month of January. And while we still have some chilly days to muddle through before spring arrives, February is here to keep our spirits lit and our hearts warm. As you know, Valentine’s month is as good a time as any to keep your home cozy and share the love with family.

Are you looking for some Valentine’s Day tips for keeping your home snug and your partner’s heart beating? Then, Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating is just the team to help! So, grab your sweetie and some chocolate and check out our five tips for showing your home the love this month. We promise that our tips will be all heart!

Home Is Where the HEART Is

Here are five heartfelt ways to experience a fabulous Valentine’s season at home.

H is for Heating

If you’re looking for a romantic evening with your valentine, you’ll want to be sure your home is warm and toasty as you celebrate. The team at Blue Ribbon is happy to fine-tune your heating unit when you need assistance or even supply you with a new heating installation. While it’s not roses and chocolate, it’s certainly the gift that keeps on giving all year.

E is for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The EPA protects people and the environment from health risks. This includes providing information regarding your indoor air quality. According to its statistics, people can spend more than 85% of their time indoors. So, if your indoor air quality is suffering, you could experience more health problems. Investing in an IAQ system, such as an air purifier, humidifier, dehumidifier or an air filtration system, can boost your IAQ and save you from respiratory issues. Visit our IAQ page for more info.

A is for Air Filters

If you want to set a romantic mood, dirty air is not going to help! Air filters should be changed every three months. And not all filters are created equal, either. There are a variety of types, including HEPA, UV light, electrostatic, washable, media, spun glass and pleated. To learn what type is best for your home, give us a call.

R is for Relaxing in a Safe, Comfy Home

If you’re planning a candlelight dinner with some wine, followed by a movie where you put your feet up, you’ll want to be sure your family room is as comfy as possible. An excellent way to accomplish this is by having a regular HVAC maintenance plan. When you subscribe to regular maintenance, your home’s HVAC system is fine-tuned by one of our professional techs twice a year. It reduces the need for repairs, boosts energy efficiency and secures that ideal indoor comfort 24/7.

T is for Thermostat

If you’re a smart valentine, you’ll want to invest in a smart thermostat. These devices learn your indoor patterns—from when you’re away to when you’re sleeping—and they adjust your indoor temps accordingly. It’s a super way to save on energy, so you can spend that extra cash on things that are more fun, like chocolate, heart-shaped candy and dinners out with your sweetie.

Spring Is Approaching! Are You Prepared?

Once Valentine’s Day is over, it’s time to start thinking about spring. And no, it’s never too early! In fact, if you suffer from allergies, now is the time to get your indoor air quality serviced so your IAQ remains clean and fresh for the upcoming season. Let Blue Ribbon help keep your air fresh all year round. Call our team today at 512.308.3515 for all of your IAQ or HVAC needs.

Stay Cozy & Cool in 2022 With These 7 Tips

Another year has come and gone. So, as 2022 brings exciting possibilities and fresh starts, we hope you’ll look back on last year and consider which strategies worked and which fell short. Then, take these insights and make the best of them! Whether you plan to start the new year with a fresh job, new exercise regime or better care for your HVAC system, we know 2022 will be your best year yet.

Speaking of your HVAC system, let’s recap. Were there certain mistakes you made last year when it came to giving your heating or cooling unit TLC? If you’re like most homeowners, we’re betting the answer is yes. But don’t fret. We’re here to help you turn those HVAC missteps into amazing resolutions in the new year. Whatever your wishes may be—from saying goodbye to heating failures during the winter to welcoming perfect indoor cooling in the summer, we’ve got your back.

Try These Seven HVAC Resolutions in 2022:

1. Change your filters every three months.
   Yep. We know you’ve heard us say this on repeat. But why not give it a real try this year and see how much better your system functions? We’re betting you’ll be amazed at your overall system efficiency once you adopt a more regular filter change routine.
   
2. Schedule preventive maintenance.
   You wouldn’t ignore a regular checkup for your car. Would you? No! You need that 5,000-mile auto checkup to ensure your car runs smoothly and at top performance. Well, your HVAC unit deserves the same care. Call us to perform regular maintenance and go worry-free all year round.
   
3. Add a zoning system.
   Do you have multiple levels in your home? Or rooms you rarely use? If so, there’s no need to heat or cool those areas when you’re not spending time in them. Invest in a zoning system so you can heat and cool specific rooms—when you want to! It’s not only more practical, but it will save you money, too.
   
4. Clean those air ducts.
   If it’s been more than five years since you’ve had your ductwork cleaned, you’re overdue. A thorough duct cleaning will ensure the air entering your home is clean and safe. Plus, it helps boost your HVAC system’s efficiency, too. Scheduling a professional duct cleaning is a win-win all around.
   
5. Install a smart thermostat.
   Programmable, smart thermostats are the wave of the future. If you don’t already have one, you’re missing out! These little beauties do all your thinking for you. They adjust your temperatures for when you’re away, sleeping or when you’re busy at home. Knowing your home patterns makes them highly efficient and helps save you big bucks.
   
6. Adjust about two degrees.
   Decreasing your thermostat’s heat about two degrees in the winter and bumping it up two degrees in summer can make a huge difference in your energy bill. Give it at try and see how much money you save monthly.
   
7. Boost your indoor air quality.
   Looking to better your family’s health and live a cleaner indoor life? Consider adding a few green plants to your indoor space or simply cleaning your air filters more regularly to boost your indoor air quality. Want an even better solution? Add a new IAQ system to your home! Blue Ribbon can install air purifiers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers and air filtration systems that work in tandem with your HVAC unit. Call us today for more information!

Make 2022 Your Best Year Yet

As always, Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating wants you to know we are always here to lend a hand when you need HVAC assistance. When your home needs heating repair, AC replacement, IAQ installation or more, we want to be your go-to HVAC team. Looking for HVAC help right now? Call the Blue Ribbon team today at 512.308.3515 for top-notch service!

Find It in One of Our Money-Saving Stocking Stuffers!

The holidays are approaching! ’Tis the season of comfort and joy, scrumptious cookies, decorated trees, festive apparel and, of course, holiday reunions. If you’re hosting the celebration this season, you need to be 100% certain your home is in top condition for your family members and other visitors. Fortunately, the team at Blue Ribbon has some first-place tips for prepping your home—and saving money—as you navigate the season. Check out our five great stocking stuffer ideas!

Stocking Stuffer #1

Having lots of people in your home means your indoor air quality can be compromised. The air gets stuffy, people may suffer from the sniffles and, sometimes, the smell of cigarette smoke can linger on friends’ clothing. This is why taking control of your indoor air quality before those parties start is key! Blue Ribbon offers a multitude of air cleaners, purifiers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers and air filtration systems that offer clean, crisp indoor air. Install one now and get $100 off any new IAQ product!

Get $100 Off Deal

Stocking Stuffer #2

If cocktail parties are on your calendar this month, you’ll want to be certain your HVAC unit is working flawlessly so your indoor temperatures feel just right. The best solution? Schedule an HVAC tune-up with your friendly Blue Ribbon technician now. Do it soon and you’ll save over $30!

Get $65 HVAC Tune-Up Deal

Stocking Stuffer #3

Air filters getting dirty? Pilot light malfunctioning? Refrigerant leaking? No problem. The holiday elves at Blue Ribbon can arrive at your home and complete a quick fix for you—before your house is filled with people. Just cash in our $25 off service repair coupon!

Get Service Repair Deal

Stocking Stuffer #4

If you’re considering a new smart thermostat, now is the perfect time to invest in one. Save $75 on any smart thermostat for your home and let your new device do your thinking for you. Spend more time in the kitchen baking for your family and friends and less time tinkering with the temperature. These smart devices learn your work, sleep and other patterns and adjust the temperature accordingly.

Save $75 on a New Smart Thermostat

Stocking Stuffer #5

Uh oh! You’re in the middle of pre-party cooking and your heater takes a nose dive. What about all of those guests arriving later? Fear not! Blue Ribbon offers same day service and can save the day when your HVAC system has an emergency. We’ve even got a service coupon for that! Call us.

Same Day Service Deal

Snuggle Up to a Cozier Home This Holiday

Nothing sets the holiday mood better than a cozy home with a warm fireplace and lots of twinkling lights. The team at Blue Ribbon hopes your season this year is snuggly and safe and that your family time is everything you dreamed it would be. As always, should you encounter any HVAC mishaps throughout the season, don’t hesitate to call on our team for help. Happy holidays to all!

It Keeps Your Home Comfy & Your Energy Bills Low

There are many reasons to love your home’s coziness, which many Bastrop County homeowners owe to an amazing home comfort system: the heat pump. It’s true! This dual unit satisfies homeowners all year round by providing cool air in the summer and snuggly warmth in the chillier months, too. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we thought there is no better time than now to explain the benefits—and give thanks—for this highly efficient comfort system.

Quick & Easy Heat Pump Lessons

For some homeowners, a heat pump might be a new method for heating your home this winter (and cooling it next spring). If this applies to you, don’t sweat it. Just as we help residents with furnace maintenance and AC repairs, Blue Ribbon also can help with heat pump tutorials! Here are seven reasons why updating your home to a new heat pump will have you giving thanks not just at Thanksgiving, but all year round.

A Heat Pump Will…

1. Lower your energy bills.

Heat pumps are super energy efficient. Since their main job is to transfer heat (pulling heat indoors during the winter and pushing it out during the summer), they use less energy. And using less energy costs you less money.

2. Both heat and cool your home.

Since the heat pump is a two-in-one system, you get cooler air in the summer and warmer air in the winter. It’s the perfect choice for milder climates, such as ours in Bastrop County, TX. Having to pay for only one system will also save you money.

3. Provide super quiet operation.

Heat pump systems are typically quieter than traditional HVAC systems. Since the compressor is placed outside of your home, you’ll experience less noise.

4. Offer better air circulation.

Since your heat pump is transferring heat both inside and outside of your home, it’s utilizing the outside air. This mix of outdoor air with indoor air keeps your air quality fresher and cleaner than a traditional HVAC system. Couple this with high-end, quality air filters and your indoor air will benefit greatly.

5. Provide consistent temperatures.

Heat is distributed evenly throughout your home when you have a heat pump. This helps eliminate hot or cold spots that can pop up throughout your home, leaving you with more comfort than ever before.

6. Reduce your carbon footprint.

Heat pumps don’t use gas or oil, just electricity. So, they’re using considerably less energy than furnaces. Plus, you have less risk of carbon monoxide poisoning with this system.

7. Require little maintenance.

Certainly, heat pumps are not immune to needing routine maintenance. However, you will find they typically require less attention than a more traditional HVAC system.

Blue Ribbon Is Thankful for Our Customers!

We hope this month finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. At Blue Ribbon, we want you to know how much our team appreciates your business, not just at Thanksgiving but all year-round. Please accept our thanks for being our customers and know that our team of HVAC pros is always here to assist you in whatever you need—from everyday furnace safety to full-on heating and cooling replacements, we promise to always deliver first-place, “Blue Ribbon” service!

Call Blue Ribbon and Make Your Worries Vanish

If you’re like most homeowners, your first question when something breaks down is: How much is this going to cost me? After all, every household has a budget to stick to for its financial survival, so an unexpected HVAC expense can often send a chill down your spine.

At Blue Ribbon, we want to make repair costs as painless as possible, reduce those high heating bills and keep costs on a budget that’s fair. Most of all, we want to remind customers that not every HVAC repair is overly expensive or super frightening, and your best bet for keeping your system happy is to call our team at the very first sign of toil and trouble. After all, reliable repairs—along with regular maintenance—can prevent problems from happening in the future, which saves you money in the long run!

Speaking of repairs, you might be wondering when you should call us for one. Great question! And in honor of the spooky season, we’re sharing four haunting sounds that might signal the need for heating repairs.

1. A high-pitched squeal
   Does it sound like a vampire bat is screaming inside your walls? It’s possible your blower belt has slipped or is frayed. Our technicians can realign your belts and eliminate that screechy sound!
2. Booming furnace sounds
   Is your furnace haunting you with scary sounds and strange noises? A system that’s louder than normal could mean you have dirty air filters. Dirty filters make a system work harder than it should—and could be frighteningly noisy.
3. A loud, horrible scraping sound
   Does it sound like someone is running fingernails across a chalkboard? Yikes! Talk about bone chilling! This noise could indicate your system’s ball bearings are on a downward spiral. Call our team for a simple replacement.
4. A constant ‘boo’lowing from your furnace
   Does your furnace sound like it’s constantly whistling in the wind? Is it continually blowing with a whooshing sound? Your limit switch could be on the fritz, which can make your fan’s blower run constantly and emit this sound. No problem. Call us for a replacement!  

If you’re experiencing any of these spooky problems, call our team today. We provide “Blue Ribbon” service that will keep your repair costs low and your heating system working flawlessly all season long.

Don’t Send Your HVAC to an Early Grave

Looking for more ways to save money? Look no further. Our best money saving tip is this: regular maintenance! It’s simply the best way to keep your HVAC system in spirit-free shape all year round. Blue Ribbon offers a comprehensive 21-point checkup for your heating (and cooling) system during every season. When you sign up for our Blue Ribbon Champion Plan, you’ll always get plenty of treats (and no tricks)! Benefits last all year long and include:

• 10% discount on repairs
• Bi-annual tune-ups
• Priority scheduling
• Lower utility bills
• Extended lifetime of equipment
• Fewer repairs
• Improved capacity
• Schedule reminders
• No diagnostic fee
• Loyalty replacement rewards program
• And so much more!

Call our team today at 512.308.3515 to sign up!