As a responsible homeowner, you know that your home will require regular upkeep to keep it in tip-top condition. And while you’re used to yard work, cleaning, and other household maintenance, when was the last time you paid attention to your AC unit? For instance: do you know how old it is or the last time it was serviced?
If not, you could be well on your way to a massive air conditioner malfunction.
At this point, you’re likely asking yourself: how long do air conditioners last? This is a great–and essential–question! Knowing the answer can be the difference between paying for AC service and shelling out thousands of dollars for a full AC unit replacement.
On average, home AC units last 10 to 15 years. However, this is highly dependent upon several factors. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about what you can do to keep your air conditioner running.
How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?
As we already mentioned, the average AC lifespan is 10 to 15 years. But an average is just that, an average. Some people can get 20 years or more out of their unit while others will be lucky to get 5 years.
The newness of your unit is one of the biggest determiners of how long it will last. The development and manufacturing of home AC units have changed drastically over the years. If you have a unit made in the last 5 years, you can expect it to last longer than a unit made 10 years ago.
The size of your unit is also a good indicator of your AC’s potential lifespan. It’s important to have a unit that is the right size for your home. If, for instance, you have a unit that is too small for your home, it’s going to have to work harder to cool your entire home, and that is going to strain your AC unit.
Climate will also play a part in how long you can expect your AC to last. If you live in an area with extreme heat, your unit will have to work overtime to cool your home, stressing your unit and its components. Stormy climes and saltwater can also damage your unit.
What Can I Do to Help?
Scheduling regular maintenance for your AC is the absolute best step you can take to extend the life of your unit. Having a technician check your unit and clear out the dirt and debris that can build up is necessary to save you money in the long run.
If you can’t schedule regular maintenance, change, or clean your filters every three months. This will help keep your unit clean and protect it from harmful debris that can damage its internal components.
We’re Here for You
How long do air conditioners last? Here at McWilliams & Son Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve been providing our East Texas community with the best AC service, installation, and repair work possible since 1974. Contact us today to extend the life of your AC unit!
