How Long Do Typical Air Conditioners Last? Exploring Lifespan of an Air Conditioner

Like any other mechanical or electrical equipment, an air conditioning unit has a finite lifespan. With proper maintenance and care, the air conditioner’s lifespan can be increased. On the contrary, if homeowners neglect the maintenance part, AC lifespan will decrease drastically. In this blog, I will discuss the lifespan of air conditioning units and explore ways to increase their longevity.

Understanding Air Conditioner Lifespan & Ways to Increase It 

Central Air Conditioning System 

Usually, a central air conditioning unit has a lifespan of anywhere from 10-15 years. However, it needs to be well-maintained like doing annual maintenance, doing necessary repairs, and filter replacement. Again, higher quality central AC and the right maintenance plan can extend the lifespan to up to 20 years. On the contrary, if you neglect the central AC and overuse the unit, the lifespan will be shortened. 

Ductless Mini Split A/C 

This type of cooling unit is known for its durability and longer lifespan. Typically, this type of unit lasts for around 10 years. 

Window Air Conditioners 

If you compare the central air conditioning unit and the window AC, the window AC unit’s lifespan is shorter than the central system. You can get service from your window AC for anywhere from 8-10 years. However, if you do regular cleaning and maintenance, you can increase its lifespan. 

Portable A/C 

Portable air conditioning systems have the shortest lifespan among all. Usually, with the right maintenance and regular repairs, this type of unit can last anywhere from 5-8 years. However, as it provides mobility and lower upfront costs, many homeowners prefer to opt for this AC. 

5 Factors that Influence the AC Unit Lifespan 

1.   Installation Quality 

The lifespan of the cooling system majorly depends on the quality of installation. If the AC is installed correctly, the lifespan will not decrease. On the flip side, with improper installation, there will be more wear and tear, resulting in frequent system shutdown; which eventually leads to decreased AC lifespan. This is why you must install the AC professionally. 

Many homeowners go for the DIY route for AC installation. But if you don’t have any prior experience in HVAC installation, you must leave it to the professionals. A professional will ensure that all the electrical wires are connected correctly. Moreover, they will ensure proper insulation. But all these are not possible when you install the AC with the DIY method. Besides, HVAC manufacturers forbid homeowners to go the DIY route. 

2.   Usage Pattern 

How often you use the cooling unit and for how long critically impacts the lifespan of the AC. For example, if you’re using the unit 24/7, its parts will wear out faster and need frequent repairs. And if you delay the repairs, it will decrease the lifespan. On the flip side, if you use the unit sparingly, it’ll have less wear and tear and the lifespan won’t decrease. 

3.   Maintenance of the Unit 

Without maintenance, the lifespan of your cooling system will decrease rapidly. This maintenance includes replacing the AC filter, checking the refrigerant level, lubricating the moving parts inside the AC, and ensuring insulation. Unfortunately, many homeowners neglect the maintenance and as a consequence, their AC’s lifespan starts to decrease rapidly. 

4.   Quality of the AC System 

The model, build quality, and brand play a major role in the AC lifespan. If you want your cooling unit to last longer, purchase the unit from a reputable HVAC manufacturer. 

5.   Environmental Factors 

If you live in an area where there is a sudden rise and fall in temperature or humidity, there will be more stress on the unit, resulting in a reduced lifespan. 

Guidelines on How to Increase the HVAC Lifespan 

Do Regular AC Maintenance 

If you want to increase the lifespan of your cooling unit, the first thing you’ll have to do is to ensure that you’re doing maintenance tasks regularly. With regular maintenance, your AC’s health will be in good condition; which will enable the cooling unit to function longer without any major repairs. For this, you must hire an HVAC contractor. While hiring an HVAC expert, you’ll have to ensure that the professional has credentials, good reviews, and offers the service at an affordable price. 

Replace the Filter When Required 

You must clean or replace the filter every 2 months. Many homeowners neglect this step and end up having a clogged or underperforming AC.

When the filter is clogged, it will block the airflow, forcing the cooling unit to operate longer and harder. Consequently, your AC gets damaged and needs heavy repairs. Besides, when you have a clogged filter, it will decrease the quality of indoor air. This is why, depending on the usage, you must replace it regularly. To understand the right timeline for filter replacement or cleaning, you can consult an HVAC professional. 

Ensure Airflow 

You must keep the vents and registers of your air conditioning unit unobstructed. Unfortunately, many homeowners keep their items in front of these AC components and block the airflow. Similar to the clogged filter, blocked registers and vents will make the cooling unit operate for longer hours and damage the unit. 

Monitor the Refrigerant Level 

Low refrigerant levels usually suggest that there is a leak or other issues that need attention. Here, as soon as you notice that there is a leak in the AC, you must have a professional inspect. If the professional finds any underlying issues with the AC, fix them ASAP. Otherwise, you must recharge the refrigerant as needed to protect your cooling unit from further damage. 

Install Shade for the Outdoor Units 

To reduce the stain on the outdoor unit, you can install a shade in your backyard and place the outdoor units there. This way, the outdoor units will be protected from direct sunlight and increase the lifespan of the unit. 

Conclusion 

Regular air conditioning maintenance and care can significantly increase the lifespan of the cooling unit. By following the steps above, homeowners can enjoy cooling from their AC for many years.