Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Are you a family-run business?

Yes. Krause Heating and Cooling has been family-run for more than 40 years.

Do you work in both Minnesota and Wisconsin?

Yes. We serve Duluth, MN, Superior, WI, and nearby communities within about 50 minutes of Duluth.

Do you offer estimates?

Yes. We provide estimates for new installations and replacements. Repair evaluations are done during a service visit.

Do you offer financing?

If financing options are available, we will walk you through the details during your estimate.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept standard forms of payment and can discuss financing when available.

Heating and Furnace Questions

Do you offer emergency furnace service?

Yes. From October through the colder months, we provide 24 hour furnace service for no-heat situations.

How long does a furnace normally last?

Most furnaces last 15 to 20 years with regular maintenance.

How do I know if my furnace needs repair?

Common signs include uneven heat, loud noises, strange smells, or higher energy bills.

Can you repair any furnace brand?

Yes. We service all major furnace brands and models.

Should I repair or replace my furnace?

We help you decide by looking at the age of the system, repair cost, performance, and overall condition.

Cooling and Air Conditioner Questions

How long do air conditioners last?

Most AC systems last 12 to 18 years with proper maintenance.

Do you service all AC brands?

Yes. We repair and maintain all major air conditioner brands.

Why is my AC not cooling properly?

Low refrigerant, dirty coils, airflow problems, or component failure are common causes.

Do you recharge refrigerant?

Yes. We can diagnose leaks and recharge refrigerant when appropriate and safe.

Can you replace only the outdoor AC unit?

It depends on compatibility with the indoor components. We evaluate the entire system before recommending replacement.

Heat Pump Questions

Do heat pumps work in cold climates?

Yes. Modern cold-climate heat pumps perform well in northern regions like Duluth and Superior.

Can a heat pump replace my furnace?

Many homes can use a heat pump alone, while others benefit from a hybrid system that pairs the pump with a furnace.

Are heat pumps energy efficient?

Yes. Heat pumps use less energy than traditional heating systems.

Do heat pumps require ductwork?

They can be installed with or without ductwork depending on your home.

How long do heat pumps last?

Most heat pumps last 12 to 20 years with routine maintenance.

Mini-Split Questions

Can mini-splits heat and cool?

Yes. Mini-splits provide both heating and cooling in a single system.

Do mini-splits work in winter?

Modern systems are designed to perform well in cold weather.

Does a mini-split require ductwork?

No. Mini-splits are ductless and ideal for homes without existing ductwork.

Can mini-splits cool an entire home?

Yes. Multi-zone systems can serve multiple rooms or full-home setups.

Where are mini-splits usually installed?

Common locations include older homes, additions, basements, garages, and rooms with uneven temperatures.

Custom Ductwork Questions

Why is custom ductwork important?

Properly designed ductwork improves airflow, efficiency, and comfort throughout your home.

Do you fabricate your ductwork in-house?

Yes. Our union-trained sheet metal technicians build custom ductwork and fittings in our shop.

Can custom ductwork fix temperature imbalances?

Often, yes. Correcting sizing and airflow can significantly improve comfort.

Is custom ductwork only for older homes?

No. It is useful for remodels, additions, new installations, and homes with unique layouts.

Do you offer ductwork inspections?

Yes. We can evaluate your current system and recommend improvements.

Service Area Questions

How far do you travel?

We typically travel up to about 50 minutes from Duluth, depending on the job.

Do you work outside the listed areas?

If you are slightly outside our range, contact us to see if we can help.

Do you charge extra for distance?

This depends on the job. All details are reviewed up front.