HVAC in Burnet
Burnet is the Burnet County seat, a short drive from Inks Lake and Lake Buchanan. One thing sets it apart from most towns in this area: the city runs its own electric utility.
Electric utility and rebates
The City of Burnet owns and operates its own electric generation and distribution system and is the sole provider of electric service to residents inside its service area. Electric rates are set by the City Council. Because Burnet's city electric customers are not PEC or Oncor customers, those utilities' rebate programs generally won't apply. Ask the City of Burnet whether it offers any efficiency incentives.
Things worth knowing in Burnet
- Homes just outside Burnet's city electric area may be served by a different utility. Check your bill before counting on any rebate.
- Older homes near the historic downtown square may have older or undersized ductwork, so it's worth inspecting before an equipment swap.
Climate
Burnet doesn't publish its own climate normals that we could find. As a regional reference, the National Weather Service's 1991–2020 normals for Austin's Camp Mabry station show a normal August high of 97.8°F, with almost every August day reaching 90°F or more. Conditions in Burnet can differ somewhat, but the long cooling season is the same, which is why spring tune-ups and prompt AC repair matter here.
Permits
Ask City of Burnet development services whether a mechanical permit is required inside city limits. Your contractor typically pulls it.
Burnet HVAC FAQs
Does PEC's rebate apply in Burnet?
Not if your electric service comes from the City of Burnet. PEC programs are for PEC members.
Who do I call about a power outage?
City of Burnet electric customers report outages to the city. See the city's Electric Services page.
Do you do the HVAC work yourselves?
No. We're a referral service. Your request goes to an independent HVAC contractor licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), who contracts with you directly.
Does it cost anything to submit a request?
No. It's free for homeowners, and there's no obligation. We may be compensated by the contractor for the referral.
How do I check a contractor's license?
Search the company or license number at tdlr.texas.gov/LicenseSearch. Texas law requires air conditioning contractors to show their license number on advertising and quotes.
Should I get more than one quote?
For big jobs like a replacement, many homeowners get two or three itemized quotes and compare equipment, scope and warranty. For major repairs, a second opinion is reasonable.
Should I repair or replace an older system?
Age, the size of the repair, refrigerant type and repair history all matter. A newer system with a single failure is usually worth fixing. Older systems facing a compressor or coil repair are often compared with replacement.
Is R-410A being banned?
No. New R-410A equipment is no longer made, but existing systems can still be legally serviced and repaired. Be cautious of anyone using a 'ban' to push a replacement.
How often should I change my air filter?
Commonly every one to three months for 1-inch filters, and more often in summer, with pets, or during cedar season.
How fast can someone come out?
Many contractors offer same-day or next-day service, but it depends on demand. We can't promise arrival times.
Sources
- City of Burnet, Electric Services
- PEC Tariff & Business Rules, Sec. 200 (eff. Oct 1, 2026): counties and franchise cities served
- NWS Austin/San Antonio, Austin Camp Mabry 1991-2020 monthly normals
Not yet verified (confirm locally):
- Any City of Burnet HVAC efficiency rebate
- Age of housing stock near downtown (general observation, not measured)