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The Coolest Gift to Give Dad on Father's Day, Literally

The Gift of AC is Sure to Make Dad Happy This Father’s Day

It can be quite the conundrum trying to figure out a great gift for dad on Father’s Day. The best gifts are something that dads really like and that also provide added benefits. But there aren’t that many gifts that fit the mold. And when one considers that most dads want to save money while protecting their families and enhancing their quality of life, things get even more difficult.

Luckily, there’s one gift that can do all this and more: A new air conditioner! Yes, it’s quite literally the coolest gift to give dad this Father’s Day! So read on to find out the benefits of a new AC for dad (and the whole family).

Keep the Home Healthy with a New AC

It’s not a widely known fact that indoor air quality is often significantly worse than outdoor air quality. According to the EPA, indoor air quality is often between two and five times worse indoors than it is outdoors. And while changing the filters on time is a great way to help this, it’s not the only option. Or the best one.

In fact, old and struggling AC systems aren’t doing anyone any favors. As they struggle to circulate air throughout the house, more and more pollutants are gathering. For many homes, the AC unit is the only way for pollutants to be filtered out. And with a poorly functioning AC system, the air quality will only get worse. So getting dad a new AC is really a present for the whole family.

Increase Productivity and Sleep Quality

Humans tend to function well at certain temperatures, both when asleep and awake. In fact, when optimal temperatures are maintained in the home, it helps people be more productive. Everyone has felt the sluggishness and tiredness that comes with warm temperatures. And when it’s too cold, the mind has a hard time functioning and focusing. A good AC will allow the best temperatures during the day and night.

Speaking of night, it’s important to get a good night’s rest. The more research that comes out, the more people realize how important sleep really is for general health and wellness. And humans sleep best at cooler temperatures. Scientists say that this temperature is right around 65-degrees. It helps people get into and stay in a deep sleep for longer, which is essential for a good life.

Save $$ With Energy Efficient AC

Lastly, dad will love that new AC systems are more efficient than older ones. New models do more with less electricity, which is something that all dads can get behind. So when looking for a new system, it’s important to make sure it’s an energy-efficient model with a good SEER rating and that it’s the right size for the home.

The best way to do this is by consulting a professional. HVAC techs can help determine what size AC unit a home needs, plus they can handle the installation so dad can sit back, relax, and enjoy Father’s Day!

About A-Plus Air Conditioning and Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning has been serving Austin, TX, since 1977! They’re a family-owned company that focuses on fast and friendly service. They’re fully licensed and always provide flat-rate pricing. Contact them to learn more about AC installation services in Austin.

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Is Your Backyard Ready for Summer Hangouts?

3 Ways You Can Turn a Backyard Into a Summer Oasis!

Summer is fast approaching, and many homeowners are looking for ways to turn their backyards into perfect summer spots. Luckily, there are several ways to do this, and they don’t have to break the bank. These tips range from involved to done-in-a-weekend. And with the help of a home solutions company, homeowners can rest easy knowing the job is done right. So read on to find out how to turn a backyard into a summer oasis!

Deck Repair or Replacement for Outdoor Fun

A warped, damaged, or too-small deck can limit the options for outdoor get-togethers. Warped or damaged decks can be a safety issue, causing guests to trip. And those with kids may find themselves digging splinters out of little feet if the deck is wooden. Plus, backyard barbecues can be hard when there’s not enough room on the deck for a table, chairs, and a grill or smoker.

Whether the deck needs repair or it’s bad enough to warrant replacement, there are plenty of options. Sometimes repairing a deck is just a matter of a little sanding, a few replacement boards, and a fresh coat of finish. The right handyman can get this done in a couple of days, depending on the size of the deck. Replacing a deck isn’t quite as quick, but newer materials are available that will allow homeowners to install a deck that will last 15 to 20 years without constant repairs.

Enjoy Family Cookouts With an Outdoor Kitchen

Many homeowners already have a nice deck or patio but are looking to upgrade the facilities. A simple grill is nice, but an outdoor kitchen can move all the conveniences of the modern kitchen outside. For many families, the kitchen is the gathering place of choice. When the weather is nice, this is doubly so for the outdoor kitchen. Combining the fresh air and the sound of chirping birds with a mini-fridge, an oven with a stovetop, and plenty of counter space can turn family gatherings into fun outdoor get-togethers.

When homeowners install a seating area, a pizza stove, a sink, and one of many outdoor kitchen options, the outdoor kitchen starts looking even better than the indoor kitchen - which isn’t a bad thing at all!

Add Outdoor Lighting For Dinner Under the Stars

Lastly, outdoor lighting can add much more to the backyard than the sum of its parts. It’s nice to spend a night out under the stars, but natural starlight may not be enough to see by. There are a ton of different outdoor lighting options to choose from.

Mood lighting can turn the backyard into a romantic escape. It can also add a certain unbeatable ambiance to those beautiful summer nights. From string lights and recessed lighting to understated outdoor chandeliers and colored garden lights, homeowners can find a style that is perfect for them.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

The friendly folks at A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions have been serving Austin, TX, since 1977. They are a family-owned business offering fast, friendly service. They’re also fully licensed and always offer flat-rate pricing on every job. Call them today for professional deck services in Austin, TX.

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Don't Forget the Energy Audit Before Buying a Home!

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An Energy Audit Performed by a Professional Is an Important Part of the Home Buying Process

Energy audits are a vital part of the home buying process. When selling a home, an energy audit may be required in Austin. When buying a home, an energy audit can tell the potential home buyers whether the home is energy-efficient or not. But this isn’t the only reason to have an energy audit. Read on to find out all about energy audits and how to go about getting one.

What Is an ECAD Audit and Why Do You Need One?

Thermal imaging camera used for energy audits, assessing home energy efficiency and identifying insulation issues.

An Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure (ECAD) is a way to help ensure energy efficiency in homes. This audit is required for every home in Austin that is being sold and hasn’t been audited in the last 10 years. They’re designed to identify ways to save energy in a house or building. They’re performed by professionals and can give buyers the confidence they need in a property, and they can give sellers a leg up over other homes on the market. ECAD audits are always paid for by the seller.

But that’s not all these energy audits are good for. They can also help a home or building improve its air quality. These audits can help home and building owners identify problem areas and address them, thereby increasing energy savings and property value, making the home or building more comfortable for those living or working inside.

Different Kinds of Energy Audits

There are a couple of different kinds of energy audits that different circumstances call for. There’s the visual audit, which entails a professional inspecting both the outside and inside of the home or building. Austin Home Performance Program uses this type of audit. It will give the homeowner an idea of the building’s overall energy performance, including installation and ductwork.

Comprehensive energy audits are a more thorough inspection of the home or building. This type of audit includes testing for air leaks, which can be a major factor in inefficient energy usage. This includes air leak testing in both the house itself and the air ducts. These recommendations enable homeowners to enact changes that will allow them to increase energy efficiency, saving them money in the long run.

Finding the Best Auditors for the Job

When searching for a company to do an energy audit, it’s best to stick to those certified to do this work. It’s also a good idea to search for Austin companies that have been involved in programs like the Austin Home Performance Program.

Companies that offer a wide range of energy auditing services and who are willing to file the proper paperwork with the city will make a homeowner’s life that much easier. Trusted HVAC companies with a good reputation and excellent reviews will be sure to do a fine job on energy audits and other HVAC-related issues.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions has been serving Austin, TX, for over 40 years. They’re a family-owned and operated business that offers fast and friendly service. They’re also BBB accredited and a recipient of the Angie’s List Super Service Award. Give them a call today for ECAD audits across Austin.

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How To Come Out On Top This Allergy Season

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3 Ways To Keep Allergies at Bay This Spring

Spring is a wonderful time for most homeowners. The rains help accelerate the growth of flowers, lawns, and garden vegetables, the warm weather means more time relaxing and grilling outside, and the longer days are perfect for evening walks. But for anyone who suffers from seasonal allergies, springtime is no walk in the park.

Most people try to find relief by shutting themselves inside and waiting out the storm of pollen and blowing dust. But in doing so, they’re actually exposing themselves to higher concentrations of airborne pollutants and allergens that have gotten trapped and are recirculating throughout the home. But there is hope for those homeowners hounded by allergies. Read on to discover three ways to improve indoor air quality and turn the tables on spring allergies.

Don’t Let Dust Collect On Surfaces

Improving indoor air quality starts with keeping the house clean. The more dust and debris is allowed to accumulate indoors, the more will get kicked up at the merest movement or puff of air. Regularly dusting every hard surface with a dust-absorbent cloth will make an enormous difference. This includes bookshelves, countertops, picture frames, ceiling fans-- everything. Sweeping, mopping and vacuuming will take care of the rest - but it’s a good idea to vacuum not only carpets and rugs but also upholstery, as plenty of dust can gather on furniture. Doing these chores every one to two weeks will drastically reduce the particulate matter in the home, improving allergy symptoms related to dust.

Mask up!

Over the last year, wearing facemasks in public spaces has become common practice. While this came about in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, wearing masks can also help protect allergy sufferers from environmental allergens like pollen, dust, and dander.

According to the New York Times, there are some airborne allergens that are as much as 800 times larger than the Coronavirus. Larger particles like that are unable to penetrate the fibers of the cloth and medical masks alike! For this reason, some allergists have been suggesting that people who deal with seasonal allergies wear masks outside since long before it was the norm. While mask mandates may be easing up in cities all across the country, allergy sufferers may want to keep them around for a little longer!

Change the Air Filters Regularly

One of the best things homeowners can do for the air quality in their home is to replace their HVAC filters on time. How often they’re changed will depend on the type of filter, the number of people and pets in the home, and how much dirt and debris get tracked in. Every three months should do it for the average home, but some homes may require more frequent replacements. Even those with high-quality HEPA filters need to stick to a schedule. A clogged and dirty filter will constrict airflow, put undue strain on the unit, and be ineffective in capturing pollutants.

Similarly, permanent-use electrostatic filters need to be unplugged and cleaned regularly. This can be an intensive process, and doing it incorrectly can damage the filter, so it’s imperative to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Services

The family-owned and operated A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions has served Austin, TX, with pride for over 40 years. Their friendly, licensed technicians arrive on time, ready to handle any job, and always provide honest, flat-rate pricing before any work begins. A-Plus has an A+ BBB rating and is an industry leader in environmental responsibility. Give them a call today for more information about their indoor air quality services in Austin.

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Get Started On Your Spring Cleaning With a Professional Gutter Cleaning!

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With April Showers Come May Flowers - and Dirty Gutters! Trust a Pro To Get Them Clean

Most homeowners don’t consider that their gutters might need to be cleaned in the spring. After all, it’s typically regarded as a job for the late fall or early winter, when the leaves are falling. But as the wind picks up and the spring rains begin, plenty of debris gets knocked loose and whipped around. Naturally, a good portion of all this junk ends up in the home’s gutter system, where it can clog up the works and cause problems. Clearing out a home’s gutters is a time-consuming and labor-intensive task and can even be quite dangerous depending on the height and position of the gutters. But for a professional with the right tools and safety equipment, it’s no problem.

Why Is It Important To Keep Gutters Clean?

The primary purpose of a home’s gutter system is to capture rainwater from the roof and divert it away from the house and into the surrounding soil or municipal storm drain system. Without gutters, rainwater would pour like a waterfall around the edge of the house. Aside from soaking anyone going in or out, this water can collect and cause flooding or soil erosion that can sink or damage the home’s foundation. When the gutters get full of debris, the flow of water gets choked. Instead of going down the downspout, water will back up and overflow, defeating the purpose of the gutters altogether. Badly clogged gutters also make appealing nesting places for bugs and pesky rodents during dry periods!

What’s Clogging the Gutters?

In the autumn, falling leaves are the main form of gutter debris. The spring usually brings a more varied assortment of junk. Plenty of stubborn leaves continue to fall during the winter months and can pile up with surprising volume. The same goes for old seeds or acorns that dropped late. Trees shed bark and drop deadwood and twigs, or even whole branches - this is primarily a problem after the brutal ice storms of late winter. Flower petals from blooming trees and bushes easily find their way into gutters. Blowing dust, pollen, and roof shingle grit can settle into a silt-like substance and cause clogs.

Is Gutter Guard Installation Worth It?

Many homeowners are investing in gutter guards to eliminate the need for frequent cleaning. Gutter guards are typically fine mesh screens or grates installed over the gutter to keep out leaves and larger debris while still allowing water to pour in. They do still need to be checked and cleaned periodically to ensure proper function, but nowhere near as often as unguarded gutters. Gutter guards are highly effective and fairly inexpensive, which is why they’re becoming increasingly popular. Installing them can be a somewhat difficult (and dangerous) task, so it’s usually best to ask a trusted professional plumber or handyman if they offer installation.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions has been handling the HVAC and home service needs of Austin, Texas, since 1977. As a family-owned and operated local business, they have won numerous awards and 5-star reviews for their outstanding customer service and workmanship. A-Plus offers financing, up-front pricing, and a money-saving maintenance plan.