Air-conditioning systems keep getting better with each passing year, but not even the best can last forever.
Advancements in technology have extended the life cycle of virtually every product in the industry while, at the same time, are creating a need to replace equipment more frequently in order to take advantage of the most efficient offerings in the marketplace.
Though the lifespan of a home air conditioner varies based on many factors, those that are well-maintained last longer. Here is what you should know about the lifespan of central air units.
The lifespan of central air units
The average lifespan of an air conditioning system is typically 10-15 years.
Central air conditioner lifespan is one of the more important factors to consider when planning to invest in a replacement unit. If your unit is close to ten years old or older, you may want to consider replacing it instead of repairing it.
Heating and cooling costs account for a significant amount of your utility costs. If you’re paying more than the average for your area, your air conditioning system may not be working effectively.
When to replace your air conditioner depends on when you begin to notice your cooling system is working less efficiently than before or when you see your temperature is not correctly adjusted.
Factors That Impact Central Air Unit Lifespan
The lifespan of a central air unit depends heavily on various factors, which is why homeowners should understand what those factors are and take action to avoid decreasing the unit’s lifespan. Here are some of the factors that determine a system’s lifespan:
- Whether regular maintenance is done or not
- Local climate (humidity, air pollutants, etc.)
- Quality of the unit’s sizing and installation
- Your comfort preferences (thermostat setting and system use)
While there’s no way to ensure that the central air unit lasts forever, regular maintenance, proper sizing, and other factors make it much more likely that your unit will stay running better for longer.
It’s also vital to address air conditioning repairs when problems occur to avoid compounding problems, as this kind of neglect is a significant cause of decreased central air unit lifespan.
Central Air Unit Maintenance
If you are serious about extending the life of your AC, you should never neglect its maintenance. Ignoring air conditioner maintenance can clog its filters, make the condenser dirty, and block the drain pan. Unclean condensers draw more power, which can be extremely dangerous for your air conditioner.
Dirty air filters can impact the airflow, making your system work harder to cool the house and thus affecting its life span with the extra effort.
A thorough annual check-up ensures that filters are not filled with debris, ductwork insulation is sealed correctly, and the condenser is clean. Further, regular tune-ups prevent frequent breakdowns and costly repair expenses.
Freedom Air Repair Can Help!
At Freedom Air Repair, we’re a locally-owned and operated air conditioning and heating company serving San Antonio, Tx., and the surrounding areas.
We offer 24/7 ac repair, ac installation & replacement, ac maintenance, heating repairs, furnace repair & replacement, and more! With our 20+ years of experience in the industry, we have the know-how to provide superior customer service and competitive prices.
Contact us to learn more and get started.
