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How Has Air Conditioning Changed Through the Years?

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From a First-Class Luxury to an Everyday Necessity

The heating and cooling industry is one of the fastest-changing industries in the nation. Air conditioners and heaters from just 10 years ago are considered outdated and inferior. Knowing this, one can only imagine what the first modern air conditioner looked like when it was invented back in 1902. This month, we’re going back in time and covering the history of HVAC to compare the first residential air conditioners to the ones we know today.

In 1902, Things Were Heating Up in a Brooklyn Printing Plant

And not in a good way! High humidity was interfering with the plant’s ability to operate. That’s when engineer Willis Haviland Carrier devised a solution. Carrier is credited with designing the first modern air conditioner using the concepts of mechanical refrigeration. By filling the coils with cold water, Carrier’s system was able to successfully cool and dehumidify the Brooklyn plant. This breakthrough marked the start of modern air conditioning in the 20th century. Today, Carrier maintains its position as one of the most innovative and reputable HVAC manufacturers in the industry. 

The Wealthy Had First Dibs

Like many other inventions, air conditioning was initially accessible to only the rich. Carrier himself envisioned a world in which, “the average businessman will rise, pleasantly refreshed, having slept in an air-conditioned room. He will travel in an air-conditioned train, and toil in an air-conditioned office.” This paints a clear picture of who Carrier believed would benefit from his invention.

Thankfully, air conditioning became much more accessible with time. By the late 1960s, most new homes had central air. Finally, air conditioning had transitioned from being a first-class privilege to a basic necessity in American households.

What Major Advancements Have Been Made?

If you took a look at Carrier’s first air conditioner, you most likely would have no idea what it was. This is because today’s air conditioners look nothing like the one made 120 years ago. Carrier’s large, bulky contraption has evolved into the sleek, minimally invasive air conditioners that we know today. Here are some other advancements that have occurred since Carrier’s first model:

  • An enhanced focus on energy efficiency. When air conditioning was first introduced, people were in absolute awe. It wasn’t until years later that the efficiency of air conditioners became a top priority. The new question was not how do you cool a room, but how do you get more out of your air conditioner for less money? Efficiency has become so important through the years that today’s air conditioners are classified based on their seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER), which we covered in-depth in this blog post. 
  • The introduction of programmable thermostats and smart home automation. For years, cooling and heating your home felt like a balancing act. Depending on what the weather was like outside, you needed to constantly fiddle with the thermostat to keep your home comfortable. Inventions such as programmable thermostats and zoning systems have set entirely new standards for comfort control. Perhaps the most exciting new development is home automation using smart technology. These systems can do everything from automatically adjusting the temperature based on your preferences to turning the lights on and off on a preset schedule. Even better, you can control all of these features right through your smartphone. Smart homes are rapidly gaining traction and will forever change the way we get to experience our homes in the 21st century. 
  • Improvements and government regulations to reduce the environmental impact. Since the 1970s, billions of dollars have been spent on air conditioning and refrigeration research. In its mission to protect the ozone layer and promote a more sustainable future, the government has implemented a number of regulations, including the phaseout of R-22 refrigerant led by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) back in 2010.
  • A streamlined customer experience. Gone are the days of sitting by the phone and waiting on hold for a half-hour. In today’s digitally driven world, you can schedule appointments online and have 24/7 access to the information and resources you need. When it comes to their heating and cooling systems, today’s homeowners are more empowered and informed than they’ve ever been.

We’re Here to Give You the Best

That’s our promise to you as your local HVAC partner in Bastrop, TX, and the surrounding areas. We’re passionate about staying ahead of industry trends and giving our customers the very best that the HVAC industry can provide. Air conditioning has come a long way through the years. Since there’s no such thing as the perfect machine, there is always room for improvement. We vow to stay on the cutting edge of technology and work with the most reliable manufacturers because they share our values for innovation and superior home comfort! Whether we’re doing something as simple as changing air filters or as intricate as installing your new equipment, we’re the crew you can count on each and every season.

To take the next step, conveniently schedule your next service online or call Blue Ribbon at 512.308.3515 today!

HVAC HVAC HVAC

The History of HVAC in the United States

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The United States has a long and rich history when it comes to HVAC. Did you know that the very first air conditioner was invented in America? At Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, we look to celebrate our nation's Independence Day by reviewing the history of HVAC and how it has evolved over the years.

Ancient Heating and Cooling History

Man can date the need for heating and cooling as early as the cave dwellers' days. The heat was essential for survival as it kept fires burning and homes warm. In the winter, cave dwellers would build fires inside their caves to keep warm. Later on, in 3000 BC, the Ancient Egyptians used enslaved people to fan air over hot coals to cool down their homes. The Ancient Greeks also used a similar method by hanging wet linen in front of their open windows. This would help cool down the air that came into the home.

The Roman Empire had one of the first pieces of evidence of heating systems. The Roman Emperor Nero had enslaved people fan him with ostrich feathers while he watched gladiator fights. The Romans used a system of heated air ducts to warm their homes and public buildings during the cold weather. This system was called the hypocaust. The hypocaust consisted of a series of underfloor fires that heated the air, which then rose through ducts in the walls and floors. The hypocaust was a highly effective heating system that remained in use for centuries. Many of the principles used in modern forced-air furnaces can be traced back to the hypocaust.

In the Middle East, the temperatures can get extremely hot during the summer months. To combat this, people in this region developed a type of air conditioning called the windcatcher. Windcatchers are essentially large fans that are mounted on the roofs of buildings. They work by funneling cool breezes into the building, which helps to keep the interior cool and comfortable for inhabitants. 

The Chinese also had a form of central heating, which they used to heat their homes and public baths. The system consisted of a series of coal-fired furnaces connected to ducts in the walls and floors. Hot air from the furnace would rise through the ducts, providing necessary warmth to the entire building. While these early heating systems were quite effective, they were also very dangerous to use. If someone did not tend the fires properly, they could quickly get out of control and cause severe damage. For cooling needs, people were using manually operated rotary fans. These were used to cool down public places such as temples and palaces. In 100 AD, Ding Huan invented the world's first manually operated rotary fan out of six wings that were attached to a central axis.

In Ancient Greece, the mathematician Hero of Alexandria developed writings about air conditioning. In his work, Pneumatica, Hero described a system for cooling and ventilation using a fan and pipes. This is believed to be the first-ever mention of air conditioning. However, it would be many centuries before somebody developed this technology. It wasn't until the late 19th century that air conditioning and heating units began to be used in homes and public buildings.

The Early Days Of Air Conditioning and Heating in America

The early days of air conditioning were mainly used for commercial purposes, such as in factories and office buildings. It actually wasn't until the mid-20th century that air conditioning became common in American homes. These units were large and bulky, requiring a lot of energy to run. As a result, they were pretty expensive to operate, making them unreachable for many homeowners. 

In 1881, the first air conditioner was invented by Dr. John Gorrie. This device was designed to cool patients in a hospital. However, it was not until 1902 that the first air conditioner was installed in a home, and in 1915, the first air conditioner was placed in a commercial building. The first heater was invented in 1885 by Warren S. Johnson. This device was designed to heat homes and office buildings. Ten years later, the first central heating system was installed in a home, and in 1909, the first steam heating system was installed in a commercial building.

The 20th Century and the Popularization of AC and Heating Units

Willis Carrier invented what is considered the first modern air conditioner. Carrier's invention was designed to control the humidity in a printing plant. However, it quickly became apparent that his invention had much broader applications. Over the next few decades, air conditioning and heating became increasingly popular in America. In 1930, more than 200,000 air conditioners were in use nationwide. In the same year, the first air-conditioned automobile was invented. In 1932, the first air-conditioned office building was built at the request of President Herbert Hoover. By the decade's end, air conditioning was being used in homes, offices, factories, and movie theaters across the nation. 

In the 1940s, air conditioning began to be used in automobiles. By the decade's end, more than 1 million homes in America had air conditioners. In the 1960s, central air conditioning became increasingly common in American homes. Air conditioning became even more common in the 1950s and 1960s as the price of air conditioners began to drop. By the 1970s, nearly half of all American homes had air conditioning. Technological advances in the 1980s and 1990s led to more energy-efficient air conditioners and heaters. Today, air conditioning and heating units are commonplace in America, being used in most homes, office buildings, factories, stores, and automobiles.

The Rise of HVAC Companies

Due to the increasing popularity of air conditioning and heating, many companies began to specialize in installing and repairing these systems. In 1926, the first HVAC company was founded. In the years that followed, many other HVAC companies were established to combat demand. Today, there are thousands of HVAC companies across the country. These companies, like Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, provide a vital service to homeowners and businesses alike, keeping them comfortable year-round.

Benefits of an HVAC System

Finding a trustworthy company like Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating to help you make informed decisions about your HVAC system is key to having a comfortable home. HVAC systems provide many benefits, including:
  • Home Comfort throughout the year
  • Efficient use of energy
  • Improved indoor air quality
  • Reduced noise pollution
  • Ability to maintain a consistent temperature
  • Improved sleep quality

Why choose Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating

At Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating, our licensed technicians are highly trained and experienced to handle all types of HVAC systems. With locations in Bastrop and Round Rock, we are quick to respond to any of your heating and cooling installations, maintenance, or repair needs. We also service heat pumps and provide assistance with air quality. Our great prices, quality work, and excellent customer service are just a few reasons that our clients in Texas keep coming back to us. Contact Blue Ribbon Cooling & Heating today to schedule an appointment with our staff.

The Value of 24/7 HVAC Service (Besides the Obvious)

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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!   

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

What’s a ‘SEER’ Rating Mean Anyway?

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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! 

New House? Read This Now!

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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!

Attention, Pet Owners!

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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!

5 Ways to Think Greener This Spring

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Together, We Can Help Color the World a Brighter Shade

When people think of March, the color green often “springs” to mind. And why wouldn’t it? From shamrocks and leprechauns on St. Patrick’s Day to emerging grass and plants as the weather warms up, green is definitely a welcome focus throughout the month.

So, this got us thinking. What are some ways to “go green” this season? Are there certain changes we all can make at home to help protect our planet? As luck would have it, the answer is yes!

Here are five ways to go green and honor the environment:

1. Invest in an indoor air quality system.

People spend roughly 85% of their time indoors. This means whatever air might be flowing through your home, you’re breathing it in—85% of the time. Clean up that indoor air with the installation of a new IAQ system! Blue Ribbon can help re-create “meadow fresh air” with the addition of a new air purifier. These systems reduce pollen, dust, pollutants, pet dander and so much more.

2. Upgrade to an energy efficient HVAC system.

If your heating and cooling system is over 12 years old, it might not be providing you with the ultimate comfort you deserve. Older systems are less energy efficient and can be both money and energy wasters. Upgrading to a higher, more energy-efficient model will not only save energy, but it’ll put money back in your pocket in the long run.

3. Recycle. Recycle. Recycle.

Did you know March 18 was Global Recycling Day? It’s true. This day was created in 2018 and encourages folks to reconsider how they dispose of trash. Take this day to carefully think about recycling plastic, paper and other items. To learn more about this initiative, visit the Global Recycling Day site.

4. Conserve water.

Every March 22, World Water Day is observed. Created in 1993, this day is set aside to celebrate water and raise awareness for those 2 billion people who live without access to clean, safe water. Take the day to appreciate what you have by conserving H2O and trying your best not to waste it.

5. Celebrate Earth Hour.

On March 26, for one hour between 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (your local time), homeowners are encouraged to turn off all nonessential electricity to honor their commitment to our planet during what is known as Earth Hour.

One Last “Go Green” Tip!

Here is our bonus tip: Call Blue Ribbon for your annual spring AC checkup—soon. Believe it or not, getting that AC system set up and ready for the spring and summer months is another great way to help the environment. When your system is fine-tuned, it runs at top efficiency, which helps save money and energy. Do you have more tips for going green? Feel free to share them with family and friends over social media!

Fall in Love With a Cozy Home This Valentine’s Day

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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.

New Year—New HVAC Resolutions!

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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!

Searching for Extra Warmth This Holiday Season?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Blog. No Comments on Searching for Extra Warmth This Holiday Season?

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!