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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.

Warmer Weather Is Right Around the Corner!

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning, Blog. No Comments on Warmer Weather Is Right Around the Corner!

Is Your AC Ready for the Hotter Seasons Ahead?

Are you sick and tired of this winter’s colder weather? If so, we have some great news for you. We’re in the home stretch. February is the final month of chillier temperatures in the Bastrop area.

The average low will climb from 44 degrees in February to 61 degrees in March. And the average high will jump from 66 degrees this month to 74 degrees next month. Aaahhh! Are you ready? And, more importantly, is your air conditioner ready? Because your AC’s busy season starts in March and won’t end until late September.

Here are 7 reasons to schedule an AC tune-up today:

  1. You’ll increase your AC’s efficiency. Clogged filters. A leaky condensate line. Mold growth. Excess dust and dirt. At Blue Ribbon, our technicians are trained to look for these problems and others during our thorough pre-season air conditioning inspections and tune-ups. We’ll make any necessary adjustments so your system operates smoothly and reliably throughout the summer season.
  2. You’ll lower the risk of a breakdown. You don’t want your AC system to break down in the middle of the summer season. Contractors are busier during the warmer months. Parts are harder to find. And it can take longer for a new system to arrive after it’s ordered. A tune-up now will help prevent these types of problems down the road.
  3. You could experience improved indoor air. Adding a new filter, removing pollen, dust and mildew as well as making certain adjustments could result in cleaner, less humid indoor air.
  4. You’ll prevent costly repairs down the line. During our pre-season tune-ups, we often identify (and fix) small problems before they spiral out of control into larger, more expensive issues. (We’ll always get your approval first before making any repairs.)
  5. You’ll help your system last longer. When you take good care of your vehicle, it lasts longer. The same is true for your AC (or heating) system. Plus, regular maintenance helps keep your warranty valid.
  6. You’ll make scheduling easier. The busiest seasons for HVAC contractors are summer and winter. If you schedule your tune-up during the spring for your AC and the fall for your heater, your contractor should have more open slots so you can choose a day and time that works with your schedule.
  7. You’ll make your home safer. A well-maintained cooling or heating system is a safer system. We’ll remove or make you aware of items that can make your system less safe, such as dirt, dust, pests or other materials that can cause electrical outages. We’ll also look for plants, weeds or shrubbery that can grow too close to your outside unit and adversely affect its efficiency.

Some customers ask us if regular tune-ups are worth it or just a way for us to make money. Let us assure you these tune-ups are invaluable. Don’t believe us? Just ask the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and its Energy Star program. The EPA and Energy Star highly recommend regular tune-ups for homeowners to save energy and improve their indoor air quality.

Would you like to schedule your pre-season tune-up? We’ll even check your AC freon. Use our convenient form or call us at 512.308.3515 to get ahead of the game today.

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Ductless Mini Splits: The Secret to Maximum Energy Savings in Every Season

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on Ductless Mini Splits: The Secret to Maximum Energy Savings in Every Season

A mini-split system is a great way to save time and money on heating and cooling. Mini splits are becoming increasingly popular because of their low maintenance requirements and cost-effective operation. At Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, we offer affordable installations and service options for mini-split systems throughout Bastrop and Round Rock.

Mini splits are designed to use less energy than traditional systems, resulting in lower costs and less waste. Additionally, they generally require fewer repairs throughout their service cycle.

They’re also flexible. Mini splits can be installed in a variety of locations, including attics, basements, or even outdoors, enabling homeowners to customize their heating and cooling systems to their needs. Moreover, mini splits can be zoned, allowing for different temperatures in different rooms, which helps maximize energy efficiency and reduce energy costs.

How to Measure HVAC Efficiency

The most common way to measure HVAC efficiency is with the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio rating. SEER is a measure of cooling output over energy input, and it’s the HVAC industry’s standard rating for energy efficiency. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system is. Systems that are certified by Energy Star must have a minimum SEER rating of 14.5. However, many systems, including mini splits, have ratings ranging from 16 to 25 or more.

But the SEER rating is only one factor. Others include the size of the system, the type of equipment, and the quality of the installation. Regular maintenance, such as replacing air filters, can help keep the system working properly and reduce energy use.

About Energy Star

The Energy Star label is a designation of the United States Department of Energy. The label was created in 1992 by the Environmental Protection Agency as a way to help consumers better understand which products are the most energy-efficient.

HVAC systems with an Energy Star label have been tested and certified to meet the EPA’s strict standards for energy efficiency. These systems typically consume less power, help reduce energy costs and keep greenhouse gasses out of the atmosphere. In addition to being more efficient, Energy Star-labeled systems often have other benefits, such as better air quality, quieter operation, and improved comfort.

Many HVAC systems have an Energy Star rating, so there’s a wide selection of options to choose from. When considering an Energy Star-labeled system, keep in mind that the DOE requires these systems to be at least 10% more energy-efficient than standard models.

The Energy Star label isn’t limited to HVAC systems. The label can also be found on other energy-consuming products, including electronics and office equipment. The Department of Energy is constantly updating the standards for the Energy Star label, so make sure to check for the latest version when shopping for mini splits or other appliances.

Mini Splits Vs. Conventional HVAC Systems

The most common type of mini split system is the ductless heat pump, which uses a single outdoor condensing unit and one or more indoor air handlers to provide efficient and quiet cooling and heating. The indoor air handlers are connected to the outdoor unit via refrigerant lines and electrical wiring. This type of system offers the highest level of efficiency and can be installed in a variety of locations, including walls and ceilings.

Mini-split systems work by transferring heat energy from one area to another. The outdoor unit takes in outside air, cools it, and then sends it to the indoor air handlers. The indoor air handlers then distribute the cooled air throughout the building. In winter, the system reverses the process and collects heat from indoor air handlers, and sends cold air outside.

The ability to zone with mini-split systems is one of their greatest advantages. With zoning, you can control the temperature in different areas independently rather than attempting to maintain one temperature throughout your home. This enables you to adjust the climate in each room to your liking while still conserving energy and saving money.

Maximizing Your Savings

To get the most savings from your mini split system, you’ll need to keep up with the manufacturer-recommended service schedule. Regularly replacing filters, checking for leaks, and cleaning the condenser coil are all important maintenance tasks. At Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, our experienced technicians can help you keep up with these tasks year after year, ensuring that your system remains in peak condition.

It’s also important to use your mini-split system properly. By adjusting your thermostat to match the season, setting your thermostat’s timer, and using the energy-saving mode, you can get the best bang for your buck over the lifetime of your system.

Worn-out parts can cause your system to run inefficiently, raising your energy bills without providing better comfort. A technician from Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating can inspect your system each season to ensure that all parts are functioning properly.

The Bottom Line

Mini-split systems are essentially two units connected by tubing and wiring, one outside and one inside. As a result, they can be more efficient than standard air conditioners and heaters that run on ducts.

Moreover, mini splits are designed to work with a home’s insulation, enabling them to run at a lower temperature while using less energy. Additionally, they can run at a specified temperature while in standby mode so that they won’t waste energy when not in use.

Mini-split systems are also easier to maintain than conventional systems. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your mini-split system can help reduce the amount of pollutants in the air you breathe. And because mini splits are built to last, fewer worn-out parts will end up in landfills. Furthermore, mini splits feature simpler designs and are easier to install than standard HVAC systems. This makes mini splits more accessible to those on a budget.

Finding the Best Option for Your Home

At Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, we know that comfort is important. That’s why we offer fast inspections to identify any issues that may be preventing you from achieving the desired temperature in your home. We’re committed to providing friendly service and knowledgeable advice about all types of HVAC systems.

When you schedule an appointment with us, we’ll fully inspect your current system to determine whether a ductless mini-split system will save you money. Our experienced technicians can assess your system and make recommendations about the best way to improve its efficiency. We’ll take into account your specific needs and budget to provide you with unbiased advice.

At Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, we offer comprehensive cooling and heating services for folks in Bastrop and Round Rock, TX. From heat pump installations to AC repairs and furnace inspections, our technicians can handle any task you send our way. Whether you’re looking for a new ductless mini split system for your home or a complete air quality check, we’ll get the job done correctly the first time. Call us today to tell us how we can be of service.

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Making Your Home Cool and Dry With HVAC

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on Making Your Home Cool and Dry With HVAC

Having a home that is dry and comfortable is essential during any month of the year. An HVAC system that is working properly should both sufficiently heat or cool your home and help control humidity levels. Here’s what your system does to make your home less stuffy and what you can do to help remove excess humidity from your home.

Evaporator Coils

A modern HVAC system includes evaporator coils, the system’s secret weapon for combatting humidity. These cold coils condense the water vapor that the system collects from the air into liquid water. This collection process happens in a pipeline. As the water is condensed, it flows through the pipeline and into a connected drain, which removes it from the home.

Supporting Your HVAC System With Additional Measures

Although a properly functioning HVAC system should be able to thoroughly remove humidity, the process can take considerable time. A dehumidifier may be just what your home needs to get rid of stubborn humidity completely. At the very least, a dehumidifier will aid in your HVAC system’s performance. If your system is relatively new and seems to be doing a good job, a dehumidifier should be able to do the rest of the work.

Sometimes, additional measures need to be taken. This is especially true in warmer and more tropical climates. If your HVAC system and dehumidifier just aren’t cutting it, there are some other actions you can take.

Use Your Exhaust and Ventilation Fans

Although we might only think to use them when there’s smoke or excess steam present, using your exhaust and ventilation fans on a daily basis can prevent water vapor accumulation. While cooking food on the stove or enjoying a hot shower, turn your ventilation fans on to get rid of the moisture. Leaving them on for a little while after you are finished is always a good idea.

Fix Leaky Pipes

Leaky pipes can add a lot more moisture to a home than one may expect. If you think you may have a leak somewhere, it’s good to look around. If you find something, try to fix it as soon as possible. Once the leak has been repaired, use insulators as a reinforcement. Wrapping exposed pipes in insulators will prevent condensation from forming.

Make Sure Your Gutters Are Clean

While this may seem like an outdoor problem, indoor leaks are often caused by poorly maintained gutters. Having clean gutters can ensure that the water flows exactly as it should and doesn’t collect around your foundation, where it can seep into your home. In addition to cleaning your gutters, make sure that your downspout is pointed away from your home.

Open Windows

If it’s stuffy inside a home, you might assume it’s just as humid outdoors. However, this isn’t always the case, as humidity can easily become trapped inside a home. Opening a window can make a huge difference.

While having outdoor air flowing inside can do wonders, it’s important to avoid opening windows while an AC unit is running. If your AC doesn’t seem to be working at all, then open windows may be the better option.

Dry Clothes Outside

Although line-drying laundry outdoors is considered old-fashioned and impractical to some, it can make a major difference. Wet clothes that are hung indoors or dried in an electric dryer during hot months can cause severe humidity problems. If drying your laundry inside is your only option, having a dehumidifier in that general area can help tremendously.

Use Charcoal

This may come as a surprise, but charcoal briquettes can suck moisture out of the air like a sponge. If you have some leftover briquettes from your barbecue, consider using them. Simply take a can or basket and place a handful of briquettes inside. Aim to replace them every two or three months.

Relocate House Plants

House plants make for a cozy home atmosphere, but they also carry considerable moisture. If your home is facing a humidity crisis, it might be best to move the plants outside or into a room that is well-ventilated.

Turn Your Fan On

If there’s a room or several rooms that are particularly hot and humid, having fans in those rooms can do a great deal. When air circulates throughout a space, moisture is removed more easily.

Try Desiccants

Desiccants can be found at most hardware stores and can be very effective. They typically come in the form of silica, rock salt, and baking soda. Place the desiccants around the home as you feel necessary. Desiccant packets, which usually contain silica gel, can be placed in window sills. They work to reduce window fogginess.

Optimizing Your System’s Dehumidification Performance

A good HVAC system should be able to adjust to changing conditions. If your system isn’t removing humidity from the air as well as you think it could, here are some things to look for.

Fan Speed

In warm and sticky climates, an ideal AC fan speed is about 350 CFM (cubic feet per minute) per ton. Some systems are set up to move faster than that, which is not optimal for moisture removal. A CFM per ton at or around 350 (rather than 400) will allow the evaporator coil to become colder. A colder coil removes more moisture.

Thermal Expansion Valve

A thermal expansion valve, or TXV, helps your AC unit use more of its evaporator coil. It also helps the evaporator coil use the refrigerant more efficiently. If any part of your evaporator coil isn’t working, a thermal expansion valve will make sure that it does.

Keep a Clean Evaporator Coil

Keeping your system’s evaporator coil clean will help it maintain proper function. Even small amounts of dirt can interfere with the dehumidification process. Over time, particulates will inevitably enter your air conditioner. Once these particulates begin to accumulate on the coil, the system will lose its ability to effectively pull moisture from the home. It’s best to call an HVAC professional to have this fixed.

Refrigerant Charge

When your AC’s refrigerant charge is too low, the system won’t be able to efficiently remove moisture. It’s always a good idea to call an HVAC professional if you suspect this might be an issue, as it can lead to more serious and costly damages.

Check Your HVAC Filter

The filter on your HVAC system has the important job of trapping dirt, dust, and other debris so that it doesn’t circulate throughout your home. When these filters clog up, it can affect the overall performance of your HVAC system. In addition to making the system work harder to heat and cool your home, clogged filters also make it more difficult for the system to remove excess humidity. You should replace your filters at least every 90 days to ensure that your system performs optimally.

Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance


Ensuring that your HVAC system is well maintained will also help reduce stuffiness inside your home. During a maintenance visit, a technician will check your air filters, inspect the wiring and other electrical components, and clean and lubricate moving parts. All of this will ensure that there are no issues getting in the way of HVAC performance.

At Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, we’re passionate about serving the great people of Bastrop, Texas and surrounding areas. In addition to humidity control, some of our other services include AC installation and repair, ductless mini-split systems, heat pumps, air quality, and furnace installation and repair. No matter how your home is designed, our team of professionals is ready to address its needs. Give us a call today!

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6 Benefits of Installing Mini-Split AC Units

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on 6 Benefits of Installing Mini-Split AC Units

Today, mini-split AC systems have become more prevalent in most homes. Unlike central air conditioners, where you rely on one unit to distribute conditioned air in your home through ductwork, mini splits don’t require ducts. Instead, these small indoor devices are installed individually in specific spots within your house to regulate the temperatures around them. Ductless mini splits are connected to an outdoor condenser and have an individual evaporator coil and fan.

You may have seen these ductless units on the walls of a building, but you don’t know why you should choose to install them. Mini-split AC units have several benefits over traditional systems, due to their efficiency and flexibility. If you want to install a cooling system in your home or replace the existing conventional unit, here are reasons why you should opt for ductless mini splits.

1. Easy Installation

Installing one or more mini-split AC units is much easier than other cooling systems. Installing a central HVAC system can take days or weeks because of the ducts. You’ll also have to bear with the disruptions in your home throughout the process. The ductless mini-split installation procedure is less invasive and depending on the number of units your house requires; they can be up and running within a day. Therefore, your loved ones won’t stay in an uncomfortable space for long.

Notably, a mini-split AC system’s outdoor and indoor connection only requires a 3-inch hole. This means you won’t have to worry about rebuilding ceilings, floors, or walls around ducts. Also, manufacturers offer conduit lengths of up to 50 feet to connect these units. Finally, our technicians can install the exterior units in an inconspicuous location, such as behind your house.

2. Zone Cooling

Are you planning to add air conditioning to specific spots in your house, such as the garage, study room, or other areas? You can achieve this goal by installing ductless mini-split units. Unlike the traditional AC system that passes cooled air through ducts, so every room in your house gets cooled uniformly, mini-split units deliver conditioned air directly into a specific zone. Through the help of our team, we can help you determine the most appropriate spot to mount the indoor units and keep your space cool. In addition, we will ensure the internal devices get installed where you want them, so conditioned air goes directly to where you are.

Even better, you can turn off cooling in unoccupied rooms. You only need to set individual thermostats to maximize the temperature in a specific spot without affecting other areas in your home. And when you need to rearrange furniture or redecorate your home, our technicians can quickly move the ductless units to ensure optimal cooling.

3. Easy Maintenance

Keeping ductless mini-split units in tip-top condition is quick and easy. You only need to involve our professionals to keep the outdoor unit clean to maintain airflow, keep vents clear, and clean the filters. In case of an issue with an internal component, our experienced technicians will quickly swap out the specific part for repairs without causing any significant interruptions in your home. Servicing is also easier and takes minimal effort. We will thoroughly assess the units to identify any potential issues and make the necessary repairs. A well-maintained mini-split AC can last for about 20 years.

On the other hand, ducted AC systems take more time to maintain. You’ll have to call a professional to clean the ductwork and maintain these systems regularly. And since larger AC systems have more moving components, you may experience more breakages. Therefore, the small ductless AC devices will cost you less money for maintenance due to the minimal mechanical stress.

4. Silent Operation

Another benefit of using ductless mini-split units is the minimal noise produced while in operation. While using conventional AC nits, you hear loud noises, especially when turning on, even if the blower is insulated. In fact, window AC systems produce more noise because the blower is installed in the same room, which causes more distraction.

The new mini-split AC systems are the quietest cooling units that you can install in your home. These modern systems have fans that run at lower speeds, which minimizes noise and still cools your home effectively. Additionally, the condenser and the blower are located outside your home to reduce the noise in the interior space. Also, the copper tubing leaves no room for banging or rattling sounds that are present in ducts. And because the air handlers don’t have any moving parts, these systems operate silently.

5. Better Air Quality

The air quality in your indoor space may be much less than in the outdoors. Although HVAC systems help to clean the air in your home, central units may facilitate the spread of impurities. In addition, poorly maintained ductwork contains dust and dirt and is a perfect location for mold growth. Eventually, these contaminants get circulated inside your home, which is risky for family members suffering from asthma or allergies.

Unlike ducted AC systems, mini-split units don’t rely on ductwork that may allow dust and other debris to accumulate in your house. Instead, these ductless devices have a multi-stage filtration that effectively reduces the amount of dirt, allergens, pollen, and other contaminants in your indoor air. In addition, some brands have washable filters allowing you to clean and replace them regularly. Also, the copper tubing used on mini-split units inhibits the build-up of contaminants and mold growth, making your indoor air clean and healthy.

6. Less Energy Loss

One primary reason a sizable number of homeowners are switching to mini-split AC systems is due to their high energy efficiency. Keeping your home cool and comfortable means your air conditioner remains in operation for several hours of the day and night. If you have an inefficient cooling system, it will lead to increased utility bills. In addition, central AC units lose up to 30% of conditioned air through duct leaks. The wasted energy can result in inflated costs without benefits to your home.

Ductless mini-split systems use about 60% less energy than conventional cooling systems. These ductless units transfer cooled air through copper tubing from the condenser to the indoor devices. Copper tubing is unsegmented and harder than ducts, making them more resistant to leaks. Also, you can switch on specific AC mini splits depending on the occupied rooms in your home, which helps to lower your electricity costs.

Ductless Mini-Split Installation by the Professionals

Whether you have multiple rooms or a large building that you intend to keep cool and comfortable, mini-split AC units will meet your needs. You’ll enjoy exceptional air quality in your indoors and high energy efficiency, and you’ll also love the quiet operation. If you are ready to have mini-split air conditioning units installed in your home, turn to Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating. We have a team of well-trained technicians who will install ductless mini-split units to keep your home cool. We work towards providing 100% commitment to every customer by providing unmatched services. Our team offers furnace repair, heat pump installation, AC installation, furnace installation, heat pump repair, AC maintenance, and IAQ services in Caldwell County. Contact Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating to help install mini-split AC units in your home.

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How To Tell If Your Mini-Split AC Needs Repair

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on How To Tell If Your Mini-Split AC Needs Repair 

Your mini-split AC is critical for your home during the hot summer. But what do you do when it starts to act up? Here are signs that your mini-split AC may need repair. Keep an eye out for these signs, and call a professional to scan your system if you start to see them.

The AC Is Not Cooling the Room as Much as It Used To

One sign that your AC isn't working as effectively as it used to operate is if you feel like it's not cooling the room as much. There are a few potential reasons for this. The first is that the AC filter may be dirty and need to be replaced. A dirty filter restricts airflow and makes the AC unit work harder, which can cause it to lose efficiency over time. 

The refrigerant levels in the AC unit may also be low. This happens when there is a leak in the system, and it will cause the AC unit to run less efficiently. Finally, the air vents may be blocked, preventing air from circulating properly. You should call a professional AC technician for help if you suspect any of these issues.

Strange Noises When the AC Is Running

If you hear strange noises from your AC unit, it's important to take note and investigate the noise source. The AC unit may be simply cycling on and off. This is typically a harmless process; you'll need to wait for the cycle to complete before the noise stops. 

However, if the noise persists or is accompanied by other strange noises, the compressor or fan motor may have a problem. In this case, it's best to contact a professional for diagnosis and repair.

The Airflow From the Vents Is Weak or Nonexistent

One common issue with HVAC systems is weak or nonexistent airflow from the vents. This can be due to a clogged air filter, closed vents, or a blockage in the ductwork. 

Sometimes, the problem may be with the HVAC unit, such as a malfunctioning blower motor or compressor. Contact a licensed professional for diagnosis and repair. Trying to fix the problem yourself could result in further damage.

If the Power Bill Has Increased Significantly 

If you've noticed a sudden and significant increase in your power bill, it could be due to your AC unit. The unit may be working extra hard because it's low on refrigerant, the air filter is dirty, or there's an issue with the ductwork.

An old or inefficient unit will use more energy to run and may need to be replaced. Call a professional to help diagnose your AC unit.

The AC Unit Is Leaking Water

If your air conditioner leaks water, fix the problem as soon as possible. Water leaks can cause serious damage to your unit, leading to expensive repairs or even replacement. In some cases, water leaks can also lead to mold growth, posing a serious health risk. 

Fortunately, a water leak in your air conditioner can be fixed. First, check the drain pan to see if it is full or blocked. If the pan is full, empty and clean it to prevent future problems. If the pan is blocked, clear the blockage, and make sure the drain line is unobstructed. You may also need to replace the drain line if it is damaged. 

In addition, check the connections between the unit and the ductwork for leaks. If you notice any gaps or cracks, seal them with caulk or duct tape. By taking these simple steps, you can prevent water leaks and keep your air conditioner running smoothly for years to come.

The Indoor Unit Is Very Hot to the Touch

The outdoor unit of an air conditioner contains a compressor that circulates the refrigerant through the system. This refrigerant is very cold and, as it passes through the indoor unit, absorbs heat from the air. As a result, the indoor unit can become quite warm to the touch. 

While this is normal and not cause for concern, it is important that you ensure adequate ventilation around the indoor unit to prevent heat buildup. In addition, it is important to regularly check the air filter and coils to ensure they are clean and debris-free. These steps will help keep your air conditioner running efficiently so that your home remains comfortable all summer.

There’s Ice on the Outdoor Unit

Ice on your outdoor unit could mean several things. One possibility is that the unit is low on refrigerant. This happens if the system is leaking, and it can cause the coils to freeze up. The fan may also not be working properly. This can prevent air from flowing over the coils, causing them to ice. 

Finally, the outdoor temperature may be too cold for the unit to operate efficiently. In such a case, you may need to wait for warmer weather before using your AC again. It's best to call a qualified technician to diagnose the problem and find a solution.

The AC Is Turning On and Off Frequently 

One potential reason your AC unit may be turning on and off frequently is that the thermostat may be set too low. The AC will turn on until it reaches the desired temperature and then turn back off. 

However, because the unit is not running for very long, it never has a chance to properly cool down the room. As a result, it turns back on again, and the cycle repeats. 

Another possibility is that the AC unit is too large for the space that it is trying to cool. In this case, the unit will cool the room quickly but then shut off because it has already reached the desired temperature. This can lead to frequent cycling as well. If your AC unit is frequently turning on and off, it's best to consult a professional.

The Fan Isn’t Working Properly

Your fan breakdown is the last thing you want to hear. But if it's not working properly, that might be exactly what's happening. Below are some things that can cause a fan to malfunction, and some of them are relatively easy to fix:
  • Make sure the blades are clean and debris-free. If they’re not, the fan won’t be able to circulate air effectively
  • Check if the blades are tightly connected to the motor. They can cause the fan to wobble and eventually breakdown if they’re loose
  • Take a look at the motor itself. If it’s overloaded or overheated, it can cause the fan to shut down
The summer months can be brutal, especially here in Bastrop. If your AC unit isn't working properly, you must take action quickly. That's why Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating offers emergency services; you can get the help you need when you need it most. We can also install, repair, and maintain your furnace or heat pump, as well as help you improve your indoor air quality. Our experts are ready to help diagnose the problem with your HVAC unit and provide the necessary repairs or replacements. Don't suffer through another hot Texas summer without air conditioning; call us today!