How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?
Here in Texas, families are no strangers to the heat and humidity, making a reliable AC system essential for local homeowners. Families need an air conditioner they can depend on for years to come, but how long can they realistically expect their AC to last before needing a replacement?
In this blog post, the HVAC experts at Harris Air Services offer helpful insights about the longevity of your air conditioning unit and how you can extend its life span and understand when it’s time to schedule your replacement.
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How Long Do Most ACs Last?
Air conditioners are critical in the hot, humid Texas climate, but have you ever wondered how long they last? The answer might not be as straightforward as you think.
While the average life span of an AC is between 10 and 15 years, many factors can influence how long your air conditioner will last, including:
The Type of Air Conditioner
How long your AC lasts may depend on the type of system you have. For instance, central air conditioners typically have a longer life span compared to heat pumps or ductless mini-splits, lasting as long as 15 years or more with proper maintenance.
By contrast, heat pumps and ductless AC systems tend to have a shorter life span of about 10 to 12 years.
The Unit’s Energy Efficiency
One important factor that can determine the life span of an AC system is its energy efficiency rating. More energy-efficient systems typically last longer since they put less strain on their components, resulting in less wear and tear on the unit.
The Frequency of AC Maintenance
Regular air conditioning maintenance is one of the most significant factors that influence how long your system will last. In general, the more well-maintained a system is, the more likely it is to last the long term.
Best Ways To Extend the Life Span of Your AC
Now that you understand the average life span of an AC, it’s time to dive into the ways you can help extend your system’s longevity to get the most out of your investment. Here are a few tips from our HVAC experts for how you make your AC last the long term:
Annual AC Maintenance
One of the most critical components to prolonging your system’s life span is regular maintenance. It’s recommended that you schedule a professional AC tune-up at least once a year, preferably during the late winter or early spring.
During your maintenance appointment, your technician will:
- Change air filters as needed
- Lubricate mechanical components
- Tighten electrical connections
- Recharge refrigerant as needed
- Identify minor issues before they get worse
- And more
Insulation & Air Sealing
Another way to help extend the life span of your air conditioner is by ensuring your home is properly insulated and your air ducts are sealed.
Inadequate insulation and air leaks can result in temperature imbalances throughout your living environment as your AC works harder than necessary to maintain your indoor comfort. Addressing these issues can help your AC operate more efficiently, extending its life span.
Signs It’s Time To Replace Your AC
Routine maintenance and insulation can be helpful, but even the most well-maintained AC will inevitably require a replacement. Look out for these signs that it’s time to consider an AC replacement:
- Your unit is over 15 years old.
- Your system requires frequent, expensive repairs.
- You’ve had increased energy bills despite consistent use.
- The cost to repair your AC is 50% or more than the cost to replace it.
Turn to Harris Air for Air Conditioning Service in Texas
Think it’s time to replace the air conditioner in your Texas home? Turn to Harris Air for the AC replacement you can trust.
Offering same-day service solutions backed by a deep commitment to customer satisfaction, we go above and beyond to ensure your home always remains cool and comfortable.
Call 469-325-1034 to schedule AC replacement in McKinney today.
