Air Conditioning Home Improvement

Buying a new air conditioner is a big investment. It’s important to understand how long your air conditioner’s lifespan is and when it’s time to replace it so that you can budget appropriately when it’s time to finally pull the plug on your old unit. Below, we’ll discuss how long a typical AC unit lasts, when you know it’s time to replace it, and what you can do to prolong the life of your air conditioner.

How long will my AC last?

The average lifespan of a central air conditioning unit is 15 to 20 years. However, if you want your air conditioner to perform optimally during this time, you must take care of your system with adequate maintenance.
Here are just a few of the preventative HVAC maintenance tasks that you should routinely complete to prolong the life of your AC equipment:

  • Replace your air filter every 1-3 months.
  • Get a seasonal HVAC tune-up, preferably before winter and summer.
  • Keep your air conditioning equipment clean and well lubricated.
  • Get your HVAC equipment inspected for repair needs.
  • Repair or replace any damaged parts as soon as possible.

Many homeowners find that an HVAC maintenance plan is the best way to ensure that their HVAC system gets the proper maintenance it needs throughout the year. With an HVAC maintenance agreement, you get the benefit of having an experienced and licensed HVAC technician inspect, clean, and maintain your system for optimal performance. Learn more about Sheldon's Heating & Air Conditioning’s HVAC maintenance plans here.

When is it time to replace my air conditioner?

There is no one right answer for when it’s time to replace your air conditioner. Most homeowners decide to replace their AC when the cost of repairs outweighs the cost of a new unit. While others choose to purchase and install a new air conditioner when their old unit is no longer keeping their home comfortable.
Here are a few factors you will want to consider when deciding whether it’s time to replace your air conditioner:

  • Age – If you have an older air conditioner, you may find that it’s not as efficient as a new system. Newer systems tend to use 20 to 40% less energy than units that were sold just 10 years ago. If efficiency and saving money on your electric bill are important to you, you may want to consider purchasing a newer, more energy-efficient unit.
  • Repair Needs – Is your current AC always breaking down? Whether it’s due to age, overuse, or some other cause, if your air conditioner needs frequent repairs, it may be time to replace it. Consider how much you are spending on repair costs and what a new system would cost to determine which is more cost-effective.
  • Home Comfort – Your air conditioner’s most important job is keeping your family comfortable and creating a healthy living space. If you find that your AC is just not meeting your home comfort needs, it may be time to look for a new unit. Consider what features are most important to you before shopping for a new HVAC system.

      • How to Prolong the Life of Your AC

      Not ready to buy a new air conditioner yet? At Sheldon's Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer HVAC rejuvenation packages that help you prolong the life of your HVAC system and put off purchasing a new unit. Our rejuvenation package addresses the key electrical components of both heating and cooling systems to help you get more life out of your HVAC equipment.

      Giving your HVAC system a spa day with one of our affordable rejuvenation packages is a cost-effective way to prolong your HVAC system performance and get the most for your money.

      To find out more about these packages, give us a call: 877-274-1882.

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