Knowing exactly how long your air conditioner will last would be vital information to have before making a purchase. But since so many factors influence how long an air conditioner can last, the only way of pinpointing exactly how long it will be before you need a new one would require a fortune teller with a functioning crystal ball. Under the best circumstances, you might be able to get upwards of 25 years out of a central air conditioning unit. But under less ideal circumstances, you may get only five years or less out of a unit and need an AC replacement much sooner. It’s impossible to know precisely how long your air conditioner will last, but it is possible to know what factors can impact how long it lasts. What are some of those factors, and how can you get the most out of your central air conditioner investment?
Do Warranties Determine How Long Your AC Unit Will Last?
Some homeowners often gauge the life expectancy of electronic devices and appliances by the warranty length, assuming the device will likely break down shortly after the warrant expires. But that’s not always the case. The length of a warranty on an air conditioner varies by model and manufacturer. Some components of the air conditioner can also be covered by the warranty longer than others. For example, warranties for central air conditioners can range from 5-10 years for parts and 10-15 years for the compressor.
Additionally, some manufacturers offer extended warranties for an additional cost that will cover an air conditioner repair or replacement cost for an extended period of time. The expiration of these warranties does not conclusively determine when your air conditioner will break and need to be replaced — they can break sooner or last much longer.
How to Make Sure Your Air Conditioner Lasts
While you may not know exactly how long your air conditioner should last, there are some steps you can take to help ensure that your air conditioner lasts as long as possible. Some of those steps include:
- Regular maintenance — Having your HVAC system maintained by a licensed HVAC technician is one of the best ways to extend the life of your system. During a maintenance visit, technicians can clean the coils, check or replace filters, lubricate moving parts, and ensure proper refrigerant levels. They can also spot signs of wear and tear that could lead to damage or failure of the air conditioner.
- Proper usage — Knowing how to use your air conditioner properly can also avoid situations requiring AC replacement. You should avoid making drastic thermostat setting changes that will cause your AC unit to run for more extended periods. Gradually adjusting the temperature setting will cause less wear and tear on your air conditioner. Turning off the air conditioner when you’re not home will also help it last longer.
- A quality unit — While you might be tempted to buy the least expensive air conditioner available, doing so can lead you to select a unit that is not designed to last as long as others. Purchasing a high-quality air conditioner from a reputable manufacturer can help ensure you have a unit that performs efficiently and lasts longer, avoiding the need for a repair or replacement.
- Professional installation — Installing a unit yourself may save you some money, but only qualified technicians should install AC systems to avoid mistakes that can shorten the unit’s life or cause damage to your home or injury to its occupants. Heating and air conditioning units require connections to your home’s gas and electric systems, so installing them should be done only by professionals with the right tools and experience. If you’re ready for the installation of a new AC unit in Morgan City, LA, trust Reggie Broussard’s to do the job right.
- Promptly addressing problems — When it comes to air conditioners, timely attention to minor issues can keep them from becoming more significant problems later. If you notice any issues with your air conditioner, such as strange noises, reduced capacity, or unusual smells, it is essential to have it serviced and repaired as soon as possible. Doing so will help extend the life of your air conditioner and avoid the need for an AC replacement.
- Proper air flow — Make sure to keep the area around your outdoor unit free from leaves, branches, and other debris that can impede the airflow into the air conditioner. Also, keep vents inside free from obstructions. If the airflow is blocked, the air conditioner will have to work harder to pump air through your home and that can shorten its lifespan, reduce its energy efficiency, increase your utility bills, and eventually cause you to have to replace your air conditioner sooner than you would typically need to.
Schedule Maintenance & Repairs With Reggie Broussard’s
Though it would be helpful to know for sure, it is impossible to accurately answer the question, “How long should my air conditioner last?” But it is possible to do everything you can to make sure your air conditioner lasts for years so you can avoid needing an AC replacement. Your best bet for making that happen is keeping up with regular air conditioner maintenance. A qualified technician should thoroughly inspect your system at least once a year. Reggie Broussard’s Air Conditioning & Heating offers air conditioner maintenance and AC tune-ups in Houma, LA, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your maintenance service or to inquire about financing options for a new cooling system.