For homeowners considering replacing their air conditioner, there are many factors they should consider. First of all, the average lifespan of an AC system is anywhere between 10 to 20 years, but the life of your air conditioner will heavily depend on the care you have taken throughout its life.
Normal wear and tear on your cooling system is to be expected, however, if you do not stay on top of routine maintenance the time to replace it may come much sooner.
Some homeowners decide to upgrade their system sooner, in order to switch to an energy efficient model that costs less to run and is better for the environment.
If you are weighing your options between repair or replacement, read the information below to learn more about the factors that influence an AC unit’s lifespan.
Factors That Influence an AC Unit’s Lifespan
Aside from the quality of the AC unit, which depends on the make and model, several factors can shorten or lengthen the lifespan of an AC unit.
Run Time
Do you let your AC unit run constantly, or do you have it set to run only when the household temperature passes the set threshold? Like any household appliance or device, the more you use it, the faster it will wear down.
You can help extend the lifespan of an AC unit by using it only as needed. When temperatures are a little warm but not scorching hot, you might consider opening windows or setting up fans to get some cooler air moving without relying as much on the AC. You can also invest in a smart thermostat that you can program to regulate your home’s temperature, saving about 10% to 12% in heating usage.
Location
It’s all about location, location, location. Living in a warm climate means you’ll need to run the AC more often, which can shorten the unit’s lifespan. On the other hand, AC units in dry climates can accumulate more dust, which inhibits their performance.
Then, there’s the matter of where the AC unit is installed. An outdoor AC unit or window AC unit near bushes or tall plants may not work as well as an AC unit in a clear area. Make sure to trim your hedges and create an open space around the AC unit to help it run efficiently and extend its lifespan.
Air Quality and Humidity
Your home’s air quality can affect the longevity of your AC unit. For example, salty air in coastal environments can wear down the AC unit condensing coil. Poor air quality filled with pollutants can accumulate in the AC unit and trap moisture, leading to mold.
Humidity is another concern since humidity over 50% can cause moisture accumulation in the AC unit. You may want to use a dehumidifier along with the AC unit for optimal cooling and to extend your AC unit’s lifespan.
Installation
Proper installation is an important factor for AC longevity. Hire an HVAC specialist near you to ensure the air conditioning system is properly installed. If you install it yourself and there’s an issue—like the refrigerant pipes are too long or the ducts aren’t sealed properly—the system won’t work efficiently. Improper installation can lead to strain or overheating of AC unit parts, and any mishandled wires can increase the risk of electrocution or fire.
Maintenance
In addition to proper installation, regular maintenance is one of the most important ways to extend the life of an AC unit. You should professionally service your AC unit every year to keep it in working order and identify any issues before they become more serious.
An annual AC tune-up can extend the life of your AC unit by several years. Plus, the increased efficiency can save you 15% on your monthly energy bills.
How Can I Get the Most Time From My Air Conditioner?
Homeowners looking to get the longest lifespan from their central air conditioners should stay on top of routine annual maintenance and change their air filters every 30 to 90 days. This helps to keep your system operating well and to keep your air quality high.
Air Conditioning Unit Replacement and Service in Cleveland, TX
In Texas, our air conditioning works extra hard to provide us with cool air for most of the year. If your air conditioning unit is pushing warm air through your system or your fan doesn’t blow cold air when you turn it on, you may be in need of an air conditioning repair.
Additionally, if you have not had your HVAC system inspected and serviced in the last 12 months, you are overdue for a tune-up. This routine maintenance will include a full inspection of your indoor unit, ductwork, and outdoor unit.
If you want an air conditioner that is reliable all summer long, reach out to the team at Arrow Comfort for all of your air conditioning and heating needs.
About Arrow Comfort AC and Heating
Arrow Comfort LLC has over 20 years of experience providing quality HVAC services to Cleveland, Dayton, Liberty Texas, and surrounding areas. We specialize in affordable air conditioning and heating service, repairs, and installations. Our team of HVAC technicians work in both residential and commercial settings to help you gain climate control of your home or business. Reach out to us today to learn more about our air conditioning system and heating services.
Arrow Comfort LLC
2508 FM 1725,
Cleveland, TX 77328
832-579-6487
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