If you want your air conditioner to last as long as possible, there are a number of different things you need to keep in mind. Even if the same model of air conditioner is installed in two different homes in the same neighborhood, the amount of time that each system lasts can vary by years depending on a number of factors. Today we’re going to go over what the average life expectancy is for an air conditioner and how you can extend the life of your system!
What is the average air conditioner life expectancy?
Conventional wisdom is that a well-maintained air conditioner will last for about 15 years. Although it’s possible for air conditioners to last that long in our area, the amount of work that we put our cooling systems through in the Coachella Valley can often shorten that window. That makes it all the more important to take action on the steps below!
4 ways to increase air conditioner life expectancy
- 1. Invest in a high-quality system. First and foremost, you need to invest in a high-quality air conditioner if you want your system to have a long life. Systems with higher SEER ratings and features like a variable speed air handler and a two stage compressor will work much better and last much longer than cheaper and more conventional models. Although a high-quality system might cost more upfront, you get more out of your investment because they cost less to operate and can last for many years.
- 2. Ensure your air conditioner is installed properly. No matter what kind of air conditioner you choose, it’s essential that it is installed properly. Improper installations are much more common than you might think, and they can be detrimental to the life expectancy of an air conditioner. Ensure that you work with a respected company like Hydes for all of your air conditioner installations and repairs!
- 3. Keep your system well-maintained. Just like your car, your air conditioner will last much longer if it’s maintained properly throughout the years. An annual tune-up is the best way to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently year-after-year and it can add years to your air conditioner’s operating life. In addition, make sure that you check, change or clean your air filter once a month to ensure that your system isn’t working overtime.
- 4. Decrease your air conditioner’s workload. Your air conditioner’s life expectancy is directly impacted by the amount of work it undergoes. In order to give your air conditioner a helping hand, make sure that your home is tightly sealed and properly insulated and that you don’t have leaks in your ductwork. In addition, try using energy-saving thermostat settings to ease the load on your system.
If you have any questions about air conditioner life expectancy, or if you’d like a heating or cooling system serviced or installed in your home, contact Hydes, your Coachella Valley heating and air conditioning company.