Air Conditioning in Waterloo and Listowel
How long should my air conditioner last is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from our customers.
Sometimes, they are asking that question because they’re interested in buying a new unit. Other times, they’re asking this question because something happened to their air conditioner and now it needs to be...
How long should my air conditioner last is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from our customers.
Sometimes, they are asking that question because they’re interested in buying a new unit. Other times, they’re asking this question because something happened to their air conditioner and now it needs to be replaced.
When it comes to the longevity of your air conditioner, consider the following factors:
Air Conditioner Lifespan: 4 Factors To Consider
The lifespan of your air conditioner essentially boils down to the manufacturer, the technician who installed it, and how well you care for it.
Typically, an air conditioner will last between 15 and 20 years.
Let us explain:
Factor #1: The quality of the original equipment installed
The quality of your HVAC equipment can vary.
Although many manufacturers make dependable products, some manufacturer’s models can vary in longevity. Your entry level, or builder units, may fail 5 years before a model of better quality.
Factor #2: The quality of the installation
Not all HVAC technicians are made equal!
The installation of your HVAC system will vary depending on the skill, tools, knowledge, and workmanship of the technician.
These are some ways to determine if the technician working on your unit is competent:
- A technician with many years experience and good training will have seen many different applications and be able to determine the best method to install your air conditioner to ensure it will operate dependably for many years.
- Companies that invest in the proper tools such as digital gauges, scales, electrical diagnostic tools, torches, and specific refrigeration tools will not have to compromise or make due with insufficient tools that will negatively affect your system’s dependability and longevity.
- Training is extremely important for technicians. It ensures that they are properly equipped with the expertise to install your air conditioner.
Did you know? A tradesman that takes pride in their work will take the necessary time to install the equipment properly, with attention paid to ensure ease of future cleaning and maintenance.
Factor #3: Location! Location! Location!
Does the location of your air conditioner prevent debris such as dirt, grass, and foliage from entering?
Debris can create issues with oxidizing your coil. Debris might also block the airflow and make the air conditioner work harder to cool your home.
- Having the A/C unit off the grass and on a stand or wall bracket can prevent dirt and grass from entering the outdoor unit, and it will deter critters such as mice from entering it and damaging the electrical components.
- If you tend to experience ice coming off your roof in the winter above your unit, ensure that you protect it with a solid box to prevent damage during the winter months.
- Avoid a location where it may get damaged from vehicles or a stray ball tossed in the backyard.
Factor #4: Keep maintenance up-to-date
Make sure to change the filter on your furnace and have the blower on your furnace properly cleaned and maintained by a professional. This will ensure that you always have good airflow to your system. It will also help to prevent damage and unnecessary wear to expensive refrigeration components in your air conditioner.
Regular maintenance also helps technicians spot small problems before they become big problems. This will not only help to extend the life of your air conditioner, but it will also save you money!
Did you know that Cross Heating & Air Conditioning has an online store to purchase furnace filters that get delivered to your home? Click here to see our selection of furnace filters.
In Conclusion
With proper care, we’ve seen units work even longer! Conversely, you will reduce the life of your air conditioner if you don’t pay attention to the factors we’ve listed in this blog.
At Cross Heating & Air Conditioning, we can provide you with the service, installation, and advice you need to have a comfortable, long-lasting, and energy-efficient air conditioner.
Get in touch for a quote today.
