How Long Should You Expect Your Air Conditioner to Last?
Thinking how long it will take before your current A/C unit fall apart and calls for a costly replacement?
Most customers presume that companies are out to get their money when they advise on the need for replacement of their air conditioners. We understand that an A/C unit is an expense, but how can you tell when it’s time to replace your air conditioner?
The hot summers in Florida cause the A/C units to overwork to keep you fresh during these hot days, thus resulting in hectic air conditioning repairs bills. However, here is a list of signs you can tell in case that you need to either replace or seek air conditioning services for you’re A/C unit. We also provide tips on how you can take to ensure that your system lasts for many years.
- Age
The rule of thumb when it comes to the shelf life of an A/C unit is that after 10-15 years, it is high time to replace the unit. A/C replacement is a wise investment strategy instead of relying on air conditioning repairs on the old system. After this specified period, it is highly likely to expect the system from breaking down.
However, with proper maintenance of the system, it can extend its life while giving you top service. In case you cannot recall the system’s age, you can write down the model and serial number from the manufacturer and inquire about the details. For our customers, we have an excellent compilation of all the records which you can acquire information about your system from our staff.
- Increase in Electric Costs
With years of operation, the coil within the system is bound to reduce its efficiency. The reduction is due to the decrease in the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) of old systems. With the loss of each SEER increment, this loses up to 9% of the efficiency.
The reduction inherently means that your electric bills are bound to soar. In case you have high bills piling up with other root causes ruled out, it can due to the age of you’re A/C unit causing the upsurge in electricity.
It is high time you consider replacing your air conditioner or alternatively AC repairs. Consult a local licensed expert for air conditioning services to perform a system evaluation scheduled for the next maintenance. We have experts within Florida with expert service for your air conditioner with annual maintenance.
- Humidity
The coil is detrimental in determining the state of your system in terms of functioning. The primary function of the evaporator coil is humidity extraction. With the system aging pasts its shelf life, the system reduces its functionality concerning its operational standards.
The moisture buildup leads to the creation of a humid environment in your home, and this further makes your home feel damp than fresh. Other signs that your evaporator coil needs replacement it’s the presence of mold growth or freezing.
- Other Related Variables
Apart from humidity, high electric bills, and age, which take a toll on your system, there are other factors which play a role in affecting the longevity of your air conditioner. Many manufacturers produce HVAC systems frequently. The frequent manufacturing leads to the development of different components in the systems, which might be far better or worse in another system.
The Power of Maintenance
The main secret behind a fully operational A/C unit is with the performance of a proper maintenance schedule. With proper maintenance, your system can work for up to 20 years without breaking down instead of 10 years maximum operation after installation.
A crucial essential thing to remember is that the performance level of your system is different compared to other states. The shelf life of your system is enhanced with the seasonal tune-ups and the regular air filter changes.
How to Increase the Longevity of your System
The average service period of most systems within Florida serve 5 to 7 years, which is less compared to other states owing to the seasonal tropical climate. The external system is profoundly affected by the climatic conditions and further by other factors such as humidity, heat, salt, and sulfur from storms.
During the summer, your air conditioner is put to the ultimate test with the increasing heat taking a toll on the system. However, there are small AC services you can carry out in your home, like changing the air filter of your system. Before seeking air conditioning services, you can purchase the right filter at a convenient hardware store nearest to you.
It is essential to ensure that the condenser unit is strategically located to prolong the life of your air conditioner. The condensers on the air conditioners which are located facing north of your home tend to outlive condensers which have been found on the other sides of the house. This is because they are less affected by sunlight exposure. Experts recommend that you cover the condenser during fall and winter to reduce the buildup of debris.
Tips to Increase Performance of your Air Conditioner
In case you want to get the most out of your air conditioner, ensure that you have a licensed professional perform the AC maintenance annually. These tune-ups are usually less costly and can save you the expenses on replacement of an air conditioner.
With AC repairs from a technician, they can check on the condenser to ensure the unit is efficient and clean. In case it is clogged with dirt, they can remove the dust from the fins and the outer housing to increase its overall operation and long lasting performance.
It is also highly recommended that you keep the thermostat set at a slightly warmer temperature during the months of summer to avoid frequent AC repair. It is advised to maintain the room temperature at 72 degrees during the hot summers. At 72 degrees, it is comfortable around the home compared to external humid conditions.
Maintaining your air conditioner will increase the longevity of your AC repair efforts, which will serve you for years. In the case of AC services, you can schedule an appointment with an expert staff to ensure your AC unit is running efficiently.