With temperatures rising well above 100 degrees every day, air conditioning is essential here in Texas! So the burning question is, how long should your air conditioner last? A well-maintained central air conditioner should last between 10 and 15 years. But even with regular maintenance and keeping your usage in check, the time will come when replacing your old unit will be more efficient and economical than repairing the old one. Here are a few signs that it’s time to replace your AC.
Age
As mentioned above, most ACs have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. If your air conditioner is at this mark or older, consider taking the hit to replace it rather than slowly draining your wallet by trying to repair it. Newer models will be more efficient and save you money over time.
Inefficient Cooling
If your AC doesn’t cool as well as it used to, you’ll not only notice an increase in your energy bill, but you’ll feel an increased humidity in your home. Other signs that your air conditioner is struggling include unusual noises or smells coming from the unit. If it sounds like it’s struggling, it probably is.
Frequent Breakdowns
If your AC keeps breaking down, this is a sign that it’s time to replace it.
The lifespan of your AC depends on a few different factors:
- Environment/Climate
- Usage Patterns
- Maintenance
- Home Insulation
- Quality of the Unit
The environment and climate where you live will significantly impact your air conditioner’s lifespan. Here in Texas, we use our ACs for survival for several months out of the year. Our units will experience more wear and tear than in more moderate climates. Air quality also plays an important role. High levels of pollutants, dust, or debris around the unit will cause an AC system to work harder, shortening its lifespan.
The intensity of your usage will affect your AC’s lifespan. Running the AC at extreme temperatures for prolonged periods will strain the system. This can be remedied by installing a smart thermostat and setting your unit to an eco-friendly setting while you are away from home.
Maintenance is one of the most influential factors affecting the life of your air conditioner. Regularly changing the filters, keeping your outdoor unit clear of debris, and having yearly service check-ups will extend the life of your AC. An annual AC inspection is essential; it will check coolant levels, potential leaks, electrical connections, and other system parts.
Improving your home insulation will also help keep cool air in your home and reduce the workload for your AC. Simply sealing gaps and cracks around windows and doors will significantly impact the unit’s performance and longevity.
A central air conditioner can range from $3,000 to $7,000 or more, depending on the quality of the unit. The cost depends on factors such as the type of unit, its size, and the complexity of the installation. While the upfront cost may be expensive, the better the quality of the unit, the longer the unit will last, saving more money over time.
If your AC is having issues, it might be time to schedule a maintenance check-up. Being without AC in this heat is not only extremely uncomfortable, but it can negatively impact your health. Call your local AC company before it’s too late!
If you are in the market or looking to sell, I am here to help you find your way home! Email me at krista@bloomrealtytx.com or call me at 830.305-5248. I am here for you and always happy to help!
