For many homeowners, the central AC unit is something that seems mysterious and complicated. Not to mention, it’s easy to forget about when it’s working. Here’s everything you need to know about how long your AC unit should last and how to maintain it so that it lasts as long as possible.
How Long Should An Air Conditioner Last?
The average AC system can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years, but it isn’t uncommon for an AC to last more or less than that. You should begin monitoring your air conditioner more closely once it reaches 10 years old to maintain it properly.
Factors That Impact AC Lifespans
The lifespan of an AC system depends heavily on a variety of factors, which is why homeowners should understand what those factors are and take action to avoid decreasing their AC unit’s lifespan. Factors that can affect how long an AC unit lasts include:
- Whether regular maintenance is done or not
- Local climate (humidity, air pollutants, etc.)
- Quality of the unit’s sizing and installation
- Your comfort preferences (thermostat setting and system use)
While there’s no way to ensure that an AC unit lasts longer, regular maintenance, proper sizing and other factors make it much more likely that your AC will stay running better for longer. It’s also important to address air conditioning repairs when the problems occur to avoid compounding problems, as this kind of neglect is a major cause of decreased AC lifespans.
What to Check Before Calling For Repairs
Many homeowners contact their air conditioning company at the first sign of a problem in an effort to ensure the health of their AC unit. Before picking up the phone, however, there are some common things you should check that can help you proactively maintain your air conditioner without having to pay for AC repairs.
- Clear any obstructions, including changing your air filter.
- Check your thermostat to make sure the settings are correct.
- Look for ice on the unit. If ice is present, turn the system off to let it melt.
- Is there water in the drain pan? If so, take the proper steps to unclog the condensate drain.
- Make sure that the circuit breaker is switched on.
Express Air Conditioning and Heating makes sure that our customers have the quality air conditioning Pensacola residents deserve. To schedule an appointment, contact us today.
