How Long Do Air Conditioners Last

The average life expectancy of an air conditioner will vary for a number of reasons. Ultimately, there are several factors in play that can either increase or decrease your AC unit’s lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, homeowners can expect their air conditioners to last between 15-20 years.

Here are a few factors that can impact the AC’s lifespan:

• Quality of the unit and installer.
• Personal climate and comfort preferences.
• How well the system is maintained.
• Maintenance needs.

Factors Impacting Air Conditioners Lifespan

Any conversation about how long these units last should include asking when its useful life expires. Much like HVAC systems, regular maintenance, minor repairs and replacements will be needed over time. Some homeowners may choose to invest time and money in costly repairs, while others may opt for a new unit at the first sign of trouble.

Repair or replacement certainly play a role in figuring out the exact lifespan of an AC unit. Here are a few other factors to monitor:

• Quality of installation and proper sizing.
• Climate issues like high humidity.
• Air quality issues.
• Regular maintenance needs.

Let’s take a look at the three biggest factors impacting life expectancy below!

Rate Of Use

Rate of use will depend on where you live. An AC unit that is used more than average will experience more wear and tear compared to a unit used not as frequently. For instance, an AC unit in a northern climate with moderately warm summers will accumulate fewer hours in service than a unit installed in the southwest.

Personal preferences can also make a difference. If a family keeps the thermostat at 70⁰ F all summer, the unit will run more often than the neighbors who keep the thermostat at 78⁰ F.

Exposure To The Elements

The outside AC unit will be exposed to all elements year-round. Living near a coast could mean that salty sea air could take a toll on the condensing coil. While all units are designed to withstand the elements, frequent inclement weather can undoubtedly wear the unit down.

In order to protect your unit, it’s suggested to have the coil cleaned regularly. You can physically remove any trash, mulch or leaves that have built up around the air conditioner. Some homeowners will opt to purchase an AC unit cover to protect the system from any harsh winter conditions.

Upkeep

It’s no secret that an air conditioner can last longer when routine maintenance is performed. Contact a professional for an AC system tune-up or inspection. Keep up with any easy visible maintenance needs like cleaning the surrounding area.

Regular maintenance is needed to extend both the lifespan and energy efficiency of the system. An HVAC professional can inspect and clean the fan, motor and other vital components. These minor repairs can improve performance, cut down on potential repair costs and extend the unit’s lifespan.