Owning a home comes with a lot of responsibilities, and one of them is making sure that your HVAC system is in good condition. But how long can an HVAC system last? The average lifespan of an air conditioning system is between 10 and 25 years, depending on the climate and the type of heating and cooling system you have. However, your air conditioning system may last less time if it has been overloaded due to insufficient insulation and unwanted airflow (due to unsealed air leaks). Air conditioning systems are the main systems in your home that undergo intensive use.
If you live in a climate where all four seasons are extreme, you can run your air conditioning system almost all year round. Residents of milder climates may cause less wear and tear on their systems. Despite being very powerful, air conditioning systems are designed to withstand this use and last, on average, between 15 and 25 years. These systems are often expensive to buy and install, so they're expected to last for decades, but the difference is 15 to 25 years, and there are quite a few steps you can take to extend their lifespan.
Some companies even claim that well-maintained systems can last more than 25 years, and well-maintained commercial air conditioning systems last longer than those that aren't. And you're right, replacing air conditioning systems can be costly, so it's a good idea to plan and save before your HVAC unit or oven needs to be replaced immediately. Each component of an air conditioning system is complex and, often, what seems at first glance to be a total failure is the rapid replacement or repair of a part of one of the systems. Even better if you have a home warranty, repairing your air conditioning system won't be that expensive without a warranty and you'll save yourself the chance of replacing the entire system ahead of schedule. While owning a home is that a system can break down at any time, evaluating the age and condition of your current air conditioning system can give you an idea of how much time you have left before you plan to replace it.
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that your HVAC system lasts as long as possible. Regularly changing filters, cleaning coils, checking for leaks, and other maintenance tasks can help extend the life of your HVAC system. If you want to make sure that your HVAC system lasts as long as possible, it's important to keep up with regular maintenance. This includes changing filters regularly, cleaning coils, checking for leaks, and other maintenance tasks. Additionally, if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions or if you use your air conditioning system frequently throughout the year, it's important to have it inspected by a professional every few years. By following these tips and taking care of your HVAC system regularly, you can ensure that it will last for many years to come.
