Frequently Asked Questions
Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Has All the Answers!
As a trusted name in home comfort, Standard Heating & Air Conditioning receives a lot of questions about HVAC equipment. We wanted to take a moment to share some of the most common questions we receive about heating and air conditioning systems to make your life a little easier. Check out our answers below. And, as always, our team is here to answer any additional questions you may have.
If you have any questions or concerns about your home’s most essential appliances, please reach out to Standard Heating & Air Conditioning today at (612) 324-1015. We can also be reached online!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How long do air conditioning systems last?On average, air conditioners can be expected to last between 15-20 years*. However, there are a number of factors that can impact your air conditioner’s lifespan, including maintenance, extensive use, and extreme weather conditions. A good reminder, the manufacturer recommends annual maintenance for proper function and longevity of your AC.
-
How do you know it’s time to replace your air conditioner?
When your AC is acting up, it can be difficult to determine whether repair or replacement is the best solution.
Below are signs that your AC needs to be replaced:
- It is 15 years old or older
- You have paid for several costly repairs in the last few years
- It runs constantly without ever getting to set temperature
- Your energy bills are consistently high
- It makes loud rattling, screeching, or banging sounds
- It is blowing hot air
- It is constantly tripping your breaker or blowing a fuse
-
Why is my AC unit not blowing cold air?
If your AC is blowing hot air or none at all, there are a number of problems you will need to rule out.
Common causes of this problem include:
- Low refrigerant levels
- Clogged air filters
- Faulty AC compressors
- Dirty condenser
- Blown fuses
If your AC is blowing hot air, bring in a trust-certified service tech from Standard Heating & Air Conditioning right away to get to the bottom of the problem. We specialize in troubleshooting and repairing all types of AC issues.
-
How long does a furnace last?On average, furnaces last between 15 and 20 years*, but maintenance plays a big role in the lifespan of your system. A well-maintained furnace will last much longer than a system that is not.
-
What do you do when your furnace goes out in the winter?
If your furnace breaks down in the middle of winter, it is important that you do whatever you can to keep your home comfortable and safe while you wait for a repair technician.
Below are tips for staying warm and protecting your home if your furnace breaks down in the middle of winter:
- Use a space heater (while you are home and awake)
- Use a wood or gas fireplace
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to prevent pipes from freezing
- Leave your faucets dripping to prevent water from freezing
- Keep all your doors, windows, and curtains closed to insulate your home
- Cook or bake, we suggest cookies!
-
Should I have my furnace inspected before selling or buying a home?Yes, just as annual maintenance is important, having the furnace inspected before you buy or sell your home is important too. The reason to have an inspection is to verify that everything is working properly & safely both as a purchaser and a seller. Depending on the city, inspection can be required. When buying a home, it is important to request an inspection of the furnace to ensure there are no additional and costly surprises, should you purchase.
-
How long should my boiler last?The average life of a well maintained boiler is 20-30 years.* However, there are a number of factors that can impact your boilers lifespan.
-
How do you know when to replace your boiler?
We all wish our boilers could last forever, but the time for replacement will come eventually. If your system is beginning to show signs that it is struggling, you might need to start considering an upgrade.
Signs that you need to replace your boiler include:
- It is 20 years old or older
- Your fuel bills are much too high or have progressively increased
- It takes much longer to heat up than it should
- It is leaking
- You have paid for several costly repairs in the last few years
-
What are the signs that my water heater is bad?
Wondering if something is wrong with your water heater? The average life span of a water heater is 10-12 years*.
Below are signs that you may need to replace your water heater:
- Your water pressure is constantly fluctuating
- Your water heater is making strange banging or screeching sounds
- There is water leaking from your water heater
- Your water temperature fluctuates often
- You have no hot water
- You never have enough hot water
- Your energy bills are on the rise
*The Home Energy Guide, published by the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources.
-
Learn About Our Online Reviews Challenge -
Instant Deals When You Spread the Word
-
Financing Options for Your New System
Our Customers Share Their Experiences
-
"We recommend them wholeheartedly!"
Ryan, the most delightful service person imaginable, came to our house during the morning time window and spent the entire day making sure that our 1938 home was appropriately cleaned. He took some before- and after- photographs of the inside of the ducts,
- Carol R. -
"I have been using these guys for years across multiple homes."
I have been using these guys for years across multiple homes. I highly recommend the annual service contract which gives you twice-yearly checkups of your furnace and A/C to proactively deal with any problems and ensure no surprises during blizzards or hea
- Jordan O. -
"I recommend them to anyone looking for a new furnace or maintenance work."
I've used Standard Heating & Air Conditioning for almost 30 years. I've had them install new furnaces at two different homes during that time and also complete annual inspections of my furnace and A/C. They have been price competitive, courteous, profe
- Judy E. -
"The installation went very smoothly."
The installation went very smoothly. Thomas M. did a beautiful job. He was friendly and polite. He answered any questions we had about the new furnace. The city inspector even had compliments for the quality of work he saw.
- Sylvia H. -
"I will never use anyone else."
I will never use anyone else for our heating and a/c maintenance. Very professional and honest. The best in town.
- Sarah D. -
"Extremely thorough and knowledgeable, I'll be going with them from now on."
I originally hired this company because I've seen a ton of their vehicles around throughout the last year. The previous contractor I used did a poor job, and these guys illustrated just how much so. Extremely thorough and knowledgeable, I'll be going with
- Joe M. -
"We are longtime Standard Heating customers and this most recent experience re-confirmed our satisfaction and loyalty."
Casey did a very thorough job of examining our furnace, and described his findings and recommendations very well. We are longtime Standard Heating customers and this most recent experience re-confirmed our satisfaction and loyalty.
- Lisa H. -
"Professional and courteous. Highly recommended!"
I don't usually post reviews, but I was really impressed with Standard Heating. They got us in right away and showed up ahead of schedule. Professional and courteous. Highly recommended!
- Bill S.