McQuillan Home Services

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Essential Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips for New Homeowners in Minnesota

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Congratulations on your new home in the Twin Cities! Summers here can be delightful, but they also bring heat and humidity that can strain your air conditioner. To keep your home comfortable year-round, it’s essential to maintain your air conditioning system properly. Here are some maintenance tips for Minnesota homeowners.

1. Regularly Replace Air Filters: Minnesota’s climate varies greatly throughout the year, and your air conditioner works hard to keep up. Start by checking and replacing your air filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak cooling times. This simple step improves airflow, reduces energy consumption, and maintains indoor air quality.

2. Maintain Your Outdoor Unit: Regularly clear away debris like leaves and grass clippings. Gently clean the unit, and ensure it has at least 2 feet of clearance from vegetation. This helps maintain optimal airflow and prevents unnecessary strain on your AC system.

3. Schedule Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling annual AC Maintenance with a licensed HVAC technician. Minnesota’s climate extremes can stress your AC unit, so regular inspections and tune-ups are crucial. Professional maintenance checks refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and overall system efficiency to ensure reliable performance and potentially lower energy bills.

4. Seal and Insulate Ductwork: Inspect your ductwork for leaks, especially in areas with varying temperatures like attics. Properly insulated ducts maintain consistent indoor temperatures, improving comfort, and potentially reducing energy costs.

5. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings: Take advantage of programmable thermostats to manage indoor temperatures efficiently. Set higher temperatures when you’re away to save on cooling costs and lower them when you’re home for comfort. Smart thermostats offer even more convenience, allowing you to adjust settings remotely from your smartphone.

6. Maintain Drainage Lines: Minnesota’s humid summers can lead to condensate buildup in your AC’s drainage system. Regularly check and clear the condensate drain line to prevent clogs and potential water damage inside your home

7. Enhance Energy Efficiency: Some methods to improve your home’s energy efficiency include. Planting shade trees near windows and outdoor AC units to reduce direct sunlight. Ensuring adequate insulation in attics and walls minimizes heat transfer. Performing regular system maintenance to ensure your system is running at peak efficiency.

By following these home air conditioner maintenance tips, you’ll help ensure your AC system runs efficiently and reliably throughout the year. For personalized advice or professional assistance with your HVAC needs, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you stay cool and comfortable in your St. Paul & Minneapolis home.

5 Tips for Turning on Your Air Conditioner for the First Time This Year in Minnesota

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5 Tips for Turning on Your Air Conditioner for the First Time This Year in Minnesota

The cooling season is approaching after another long Minnesota winter, meaning it’s time to start thinking about the state of your air conditioner. Like any other appliance or piece of equipment, your air conditioner needs a comprehensive check after a period of disuse.

To make sure your AC can deliver reliable cooling without performance, efficiency, or reliability issues, here are a few tasks we recommend completing before temperatures heat up:

Uncover Your AC

If you, like many Minnesotans, cover your air conditioner up once the summer ends, don’t forget to uncover it before you turn it on for the first time this year.

Running your air conditioner with the cover still on is dangerous because it can severely restrict airflow and cause overheating, so don’t forget this crucial step.

Clean Up the Unit

You want your outdoor unit clean and clear of anything that would obstruct airflow, so make sure it’s free of dust, grass, leaves, mud, fallen branches, etc. You likely don’t have to worry about this step if you cover your AC, but it’s worth double-checking.

Trim back any landscaping near your outdoor unit for good measure.

Change Your Air Filter

This is always an important HVAC maintenance task, yet it’s often forgotten. Low airflow due to dirty filters forces your system to work harder and overheat.

The excess strain on your system wastes energy and can lead to a breakdown — so it’s important to change your air filter every three months.

Do a Test Run

Pay attention to what’s happening the first time you use your AC this year — just in case something goes wrong.

If you notice weird noises, smells, or any other signs of malfunction, now is the best time to schedule air conditioning repair and ensure it will be reliable all spring and summer.

Schedule Your Annual Tune-Up

A professional will inspect and clean your system to ensure the condensate line, evaporator coils, refrigerant, thermostat, electrical connections, and more are working as intended for optimal performance.

Other benefits of routine air conditioning tune-ups include:

  • Minimizing wear and tear
  • Catching developing problems before they impact your comfort
  • Maximizing energy efficiency and lowering energy bills
  • Extending your system’s life span

Choose McQuillan Home Services for AC Services in the Twin Cities

We’re your one-stop shop for home services and have proudly served Minneapolis-St. Paul residents for more than 135 years.

Whether you need maintenance, repair, or replacement, choose the team at McQuillan Home Services for reliable air conditioning services. We also offer our Home Care Club for exclusive benefits, including:

  • Annual air conditioning inspections
  • Annual heating inspections
  • Annual plumbing inspections
  • Priority scheduling
  • Members-only discounts

Sign up for the Home Care Club or schedule an air conditioning tune-up with McQuillan Home Services by calling (651) 212-5828 or contacting us online today. 

Should I Repair or Replace My Water Heater?

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Should I Repair or Replace My Water Heater?

Repairing or replacing a water heater depends on multiple factors and isn’t always obvious. Considerations include:

  • The age of the water heater
  • Frequency and cost of repairs
  • Presence of rust in your water
  • Strange noises coming from the water heater

In this post, we’ll discuss these factors in detail to help you determine whether repair or replacement is the better choice for your home.


Contact an Expert

Your Water Heater Is Over 10 Years Old

Eight to 10 years is the typical life span for a water heater. Beyond that, the chance of leaks or failures increases significantly. Without sufficient professional maintenance, sediment can accumulate in the water heater’s tank. The result is reduced operating efficiency and higher operating costs. Replacing the water heater will increase energy efficiency and lower your utility bills.

Your System Needs Frequent, Costly Repairs

If your water heater system requires frequent repairs, or if those repairs add up to as much as half of the cost of a new water heater, it’s probably time for a new one.

Signs of Rust

Is the water rusty when you turn on the hot water from your taps? Tank-based water heaters are usually steel and can develop rust over time. On the other hand, many older homes may have pipe systems that could be the source of the rust. You’ll need a professional inspection to determine whether the source of the rust is the pipes or the water heater. Replacing the water may be your best option if the source is the water heater.

Does Your Water Heater Make Unusual Noises?

Your water heater is an essential plumbing system, not a musical instrument. Creaks, pops, clunks, or bangs aren’t a normal part of its operation and should be examined for diagnosis by a professional. If the repair is costly and the water heater is near the end of its life span, consider replacing the entire unit.

Water Heater Replacement Twin Cities

Schedule Water Heater Services With McQuillan Home Services

McQuillan Home Services is a family-owned and –operated one-stop shop for all your home service needs. Our expert plumbers offer a full range of water heater services, including installation, maintenance, replacement, and repair.

For over 135 years, we’ve built a reputation for honest work and fair prices. Our customers can expect old-school professionalism and 100% satisfaction guaranteed on our work with a warranty on unit replacements. We’re licensed, insured, and service all brands. Our highly trained and certified specialists have passed extensive background checks and have the tools and skills to solve any HVAC or plumbing problem.

We offer free estimates on replacement quotes, and any trip charges are applied to our service. Customers can always find coupons and specials, and financing options available.

To schedule water heater replacement or repair from McQuillan Home Services, call us today or contact us online

 

 

HVAC Maintenance Checklist to Prepare Your Home for Winter

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HVAC Maintenance Checklist To Prepare Your Home for Winter

With summer days behind us and the holidays in full swing, it’s time to ensure your family and home are prepared for winter weather.
The team at McQuillan Homes Services has compiled this DIY heating maintenance checklist to ensure you’re not caught in the cold.


Contact an Expert

Check Your Vents

Your vents distribute heat throughout your home, so ensure they’re not blocked by furniture or closed. Otherwise, your furnace will have to work much harder to deliver the comfort you need, resulting in more wear and tear on your system.

Replace Your Air Filter

Air filters play a significant role in your home’s indoor air quality and comfort because they prevent dust, dirt, and other foreign particles from continually circulating through the air.

You should replace them at least every three months to help your furnace operate as efficiently as possible. If you have pets or severe allergies, you’ll need to replace your filter more frequently.

Inspect & Clean Your Whole-House Humidifier

If your furnace has a humidifier, you can clean the water panel and check for mold. If you’re up to the task, read your owner’s manual and have it ready.

  1. Ensure the power switch is off: To prevent any chance of electrocution, make sure the unit has no power.
  2. Disassemble the unit: Once the power is off, you can carefully take apart the housing and access the inside for cleaning.
  3. Clean or replace the water panel: You’ll find a water pad, evaporator pad, and filter. The panel should be replaced annually or more often, depending on your usage. Refer to your owner’s manual to determine which parts can be cleaned. Most cleanable parts can be soaked in a container of cold water for 20 minutes, rinsed, and wiped down before putting it back.
  4. Clean the exterior housing: You might notice the outer sections of your unit are covered with mineral deposits. You can remove them with a cloth dipped in a 50/50 water and vinegar solution.
  5. Reassemble your humidifier: Take one last look to ensure no signs of damage or leaks, then carefully put your humidifier back together.

Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detector

A carbon monoxide detector is critically important if you rely on gas to fuel your heating system, so check it before you crank up the heat in your home.

Carbon monoxide detectors usually have status lights and test buttons so you can make sure they’re working and have battery power. You can proactively replace their batteries and record the date for easy reference, so you’ll never have to worry about a faulty detector.

Listen for Abnormal Sounds

Abnormal sounds from your heating system are warning signs that you need heating repair. To check, increase the temperature setting of your thermostat a few degrees to activate your furnace, then listen for:

  • Squealing
  • Screeching
  • Rattling
  • Rumbling

If you’re hearing anything unusual, your unit is taking too long to turn on, or it won’t turn on, it’s time to call a technician to diagnose the issue.

Schedule Annual Heating Maintenance

It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your heating system. That’s why a pre-season heating inspection is always a wise decision.

Only a qualified and highly trained professional technician can perform a thorough heating inspection, recognize any issues, and help you remedy any problems they discover.

At McQuillan Home Services, our team offers expert furnace and boiler services. For your convenience, our Home Care Club is also available for scheduled heating maintenance with additional benefits like exclusive discounts and priority scheduling.

Call Today or message us online today, and we’ll help you ensure your home’s heating system is ready for winter.

7 Signs It’s Time for a New Furnace

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7 Signs It’s Time for a New Furnace

With the winter weather in full swing, it’s crucial to have a furnace you can rely on for warmth on the coldest days of the year. So, how can you tell if your heating equipment is prepared to keep you comfortable when it counts?

Several warning signs indicate it’s time to replace your furnace. Read on to find out if your furnace has reached the end of its life span.


Contact an Expert

1. Loud Noises

If your furnace gives you a headache from all the loud noises, it’s a sign of a failing system. The following are just some of the most common furnace noises made when it’s time for replacement service: 

  • Popping
  • Clicking
  • Rattling
  • Screeching
  • Humming
  • Booming

2. Inconsistent Temperature

Your furnace should be a source of reliable heat during the coldest days of the year. When your system has reached the end of its life span, you may notice significant temperature inconsistencies from room to room. 

If you’re struggling to stay warm in all areas of your home, you could be relying on an old, single-speed blower furnace. In this case, upgrading to a more advanced system capable of meeting your comfort needs is best. 

3. Old Age

While there’s no way to determine your furnace’s expiration date in advance, most systems last between 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. If you’re not sure how old your equipment is, there are a few places you can check: 

  • Owner’s Manual: Check your owner’s manual if you have it to find the model year.
  • Serial Number: Look at the first four numbers of your furnace’s serial number. The third and fourth numbers indicate the year your unit was manufactured (i.e., 0102 would have been manufactured during the first week of 2002).
  • System Manufacturer: If you don’t have an owner’s manual and can’t locate your furnace’s serial number, you can always take a photo of your unit and ask the company that manufactured it to provide the model year.

4. Poor Efficiency

Your furnace is one of the biggest energy consumers in your home. One way homeowners can tell if their system is suffering from poor energy efficiency is by looking at their monthly utility bills. If you notice sudden spikes in your heating expenses, it’s a sign that your furnace needs professional attention. 

Older systems also need to adhere to the updated energy-efficiency guidelines the U.S. Department of Energy set forth. Starting January 1, 2023, all newly manufactured furnaces will need to meet updated energy-efficiency requirements, allowing homeowners to save more on operational costs.  

5. Increased Dustiness

If you notice a decrease in indoor air quality, your furnace may not be doing its job in removing airborne contaminants from your air supply. First, inspect your air filter to see if it’s dirty and needs cleaning or replacing. Remember: Air filters should be changed at least once every 90 days. 

If you’ve never scheduled a heating tune-up or replaced your air filter, permanent damage may be done to your furnace’s internal components. In this case, replacement is the only viable option. 

6. Yellow Pilot Light

When operating correctly, your furnace’s pilot light should be blue. A yellow pilot light could indicate a carbon monoxide leak from your furnace. Carbon monoxide leaks can be deadly if left unchecked. Always contact an HVAC professional to have your system inspected and, if necessary, replaced if your pilot light has turned yellow. 

7. Expensive Repairs

Expensive, repeat furnace repairs can be a drain on your wallet — and your warmth. If the cost to repair your furnace is more costly than replacement service, it’s probably a good idea to upgrade your equipment. 

Schedule Your Home’s New Furnace Installation

Have you noticed the signs of needing furnace replacement? McQuillan Home Services is here to help. Our top-quality heating technicians have proudly delivered the superior furnace solutions that Twin Cities families have trusted since 1883. We offer a lifetime certified warranty and free estimates on all furnace replacements; no better HVAC company is available for your furnace replacement project. 

Request furnace replacement in Minneapolis-St. Paul by calling (651) 212-5828 or contacting us online today! 



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New Year’s Heating Maintenance Solutions

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Resolve to Have a Warm & Stress-Free Winter

With a new year just a stone’s throw away, there’s no place in your schedule for heating breakdowns or rising energy bills. Before you don your party hat and ring in 2018, make plans to have your heating system or boiler inspected, lubed and cleaned. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, frequent filter changes and routine HVAC tune-ups prevent unhealthy dust buildup and can improve heating efficiency and comfort, year round.

3 New Year’s Resolutions for Home & HVAC Health

A fresh, new year brings inspiration, motivation and a unique set of goals and challenges. Once you’ve settled on your personal resolutions, consider extending your objectives to include home maintenance, comfort and safety. Remember, your home’s mechanical systems need attention as much as you need self-care.

  1. Commit to HVAC fitness. A “fit” heating system receives twice-annual inspections, including safety checkups, thermostat calibration and cleaning of hard-worked components. After holiday guests depart, it’s a perfect time to have McQuillan Bros Twin City heating professionals perform comprehensive maintenance on your furnace, heat pump, hot water boiler or steam boiler. Regular HVAC care also reduces the chance of a catastrophic equipment failure since technicians keep tabs on the inner workings of your system.
  2. Tighten your purse strings. If the post-holiday slump finds you recovering from overspending or revamping your budget, a few simple steps can help you lower year-round energy costs. The Department of Energy recommends installing a programmable or “smart” thermostat to save on heating and cooling costs, switching to energy-saving LED bulbs and lowering your water heater’s temperature. And don’t forget to take advantage of natural warmth during winter by choosing window treatments that let the sun shine in.
  3. Learn something new. Life is more rewarding when you pursue knowledge and personal growth. This year, make it your mission to better understand your home’s heating, cooling and plumbing system. McQuillan Bros’ friendly, knowledgeable HVAC technicians can explain the ins and outs of your steam boiler, furnace or heat pump. Using helpful videos and new equipment training sessions, our highly trained team educates and empowers homeowners to make safe and economical indoor comfort decisions. The more you know, the better equipped you are to choose a new heating system when a breakdown occurs.

McQuillan Bros Home Care Club: Your Answer to 2018 Comfort

Start off the new year by investing in Minnesota’s Original Home Care Club and enjoy:

  • Reduced repair costs
  • Fewer emergencies
  • Longer equipment life
  • Lower utility bills
  • Improved indoor comfort & HVAC performance
  • Routine safety inspections

The Home Care Club is an affordable membership that quickly pays for itself and delivers the peace of mind every Washington, Hennepin and Ramsey County property owner needs. Trust McQuillan Bros Plumbing, Heating & AC to protect your house and keep your mechanical systems performing efficiently and effectively, month in and month out. Join the Club now:(651) 243-3632.
Wishing you a happy, healthy New Year from the McQuillan Bros family!

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