Knowing when and why it is time to replace your air conditioning system is vitally important to maintaining comfort and efficiency within your home.
In this article, you’ll learn the answer to the question, “how long do air conditioning units last?”. Today’s article will also discuss the factors impacting their lifespan, signs indicating when a replacement may be required, and ways to increase their lifespan.
Do you need help installing an AC unit? You can click here to contact reliable HVAC contractors in Arizona.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Modern air conditioners typically last 15-20 years with proper care, depending on factors like maintenance needs, climate conditions, and usage intensification.
- Regular AC maintenance practices such as changing filters quarterly and scheduling annual checkups can extend its life and preserve efficient performance for years.
- Signs that it might be time for replacement are frequent breakdowns, higher energy bills, and an AC unit that is over ten years old or requires significant repairs.
- Homeowners should plan regular inspections by an HVAC contractor to address minor problems before they become more severe and ensure the optimal efficiency of their system.
How Long Do Air Conditioning Units Last in Arizona?
Thanks to advances in technology and manufacturing processes, modern air conditioners typically last between 15-20 years, with regular filter changes and professional checkups extending this timeframe and keeping its efficiency.
By investing in high-quality units with appropriate regular maintenance such as filter changes or professional consultation, owners can extend this timeline while upholding its efficiency for an increased lifespan.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of an Air Conditioner
Multiple factors affect the lifespan of an air conditioner unit. Routine maintenance such as filter replacement and coil cleaning is paramount, while usage intensity, climate and saltwater exposure (especially in coastal locations) all can have an effect.
Signs That It Is Time for Air Conditioner Replacement
Here are some signs that you need to replace your current AC unit:
Frequent Breakdowns
Constant breakdowns could signal that it is time for your air conditioner to be upgraded; constantly calling in repair services could become both expensive and inconvenient; replacing with a brand-new unit might prove more cost-effective long term.
Higher Energy Bills
An increase in your energy bills could indicate that your air conditioner has stopped performing efficiently or has outlived its useful lifespan and increased consumption as it struggles to cool your home, which contributes to higher bills through higher consumption and airflow restrictions that damage other system components and cause additional consumption of power.
An aged system may struggle even further as you try and cool it with outdated methods consuming even more power consuming even more resources in return.
An old or dirty air filter may also contribute to higher bills by restricting airflow or by restricting airflow resulting in reduced airflow causing other system components damage that results in higher costs resulting in even greater bills by restricting airflow through restriction causing other system components damage from functioning correctly or otherwise damaging other system components within.
How Long Do Air Conditioning Units Last? — Conclusion
Modern air conditioners typically last 15-20 years with proper care and maintenance, such as regular tune-ups and servicing minor issues quickly.
Signs like frequent breakdowns and high energy costs could indicate it may be time for replacement; by taking these measures regularly and adequately, you’ll maintain indoor air quality, reduce energy costs, and provide for an ideal living space environment.
