Standard Heating and Air Conditioning Minneapolis St. Paul MN Minnesota Twin Cities Furnace Air Conditioner Cooling Mpls

	The Standard of Heating & Cooling Since 1930

Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you are interested in a new furnace, air conditioner or both, you are probably asking yourself a few questions.

How do I select a contractor?
First, the contractor should be licensed, bonded and insured in the city that you live in and they should apply and pay for all required permits to do the work on your home.

Second, they should provide you with a free, comprehensive, in home evaluation of your heating and cooling systems to include an assessment of your duct work, electrical, chimney, venting, gas service and heat loss calculations. A thorough assessment by a trained expert will guarantee that you get the right size and model for your home and that you get no "surprises" when it comes time to pay the bill.

Third, the contractor should be specialized in the heating and cooling of existing residential homes. A contractor who primarily works in new home or commercial construction probably won't be the best choice.

Finally, a company who has been in business for many years and who has many experienced employees is a safer choice.

How do I decide on the right size, model and brand of equipment?
The correct size is critical to longevity and comfort, and is determined solely by an accurate heat loss calculation. (**Special note: Be extremely wary of any contractor that gives you an estimate without doing a heat loss calculation!)

No one model or brand is best for every home, and all major manufacturers produce models for many different customer types. Unfortunately, 50% of the new furnaces manufactured today are built as inexpensively as possible, often sacrificing comfort and longevity. These furnaces can be quite loud as well.

The best solution is to have your trusted contractor assist you in selecting the best size, model and brand of equipment for your home and your budget.

How much can I save with a new furnace or air conditioner?
A new system saves energy year after year, and it eliminates the cost and inconvenience of frequent or unexpected breakdowns. Also, new technology brings a whole new level of safety and comfort into your home.

Approximate Annual Heating/Cooling Costs
	15 year old System	New High Efficiency System	Every year you save
Heating	$900	$594	$306
Cooling	$183	$78	$105
Fan	$237	$44	$193
Total	$1,320	$716	$604
	60% AFUE furnace to 94%, 6 SEER AC to 14 SEER. Your savings may be more or less.

When should I REPAIR my furnace and/or air conditioner?
REPAIR if your system:

Has been maintained annually.
Is less than 13 years old.
Costs less than $400 to repair.
Has a heat exchange and/or compressor that are in good operating condition

When should I REPLACE my furnace and/or air conditioner?
REPLACE if your system:

Is over 13 years old.
Costs over $400.
Has had little or no maintenance performed.
Shows signs of a deteriorating exchanger/compressor.

Also, REPLACE if:

Your utility costs are high.
You would like to reduce pollution and conserve natural resources.
Your unit doesn't meet today's safety standards.
You will live in your home more than two years.