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) 824-2656. We can also be reached online!

Frequently Asked Questions


On average, air conditioners can be expected to last between 15-20 years*. However, several factors 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.


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 a 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


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.


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.


If your furnace breaks down in the middle of winter, you must 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!


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, an 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.


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.


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


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.