How long do air conditioners last? (Explained!)

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How long do air conditioners last? If you’ve ever wondered how long your air conditioning will last and when it’s time to buy a new one, this is the article for you. Keep reading to find out the average life expectancy of a central air conditioner, as well as other facts and tips.

How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?

The lifespan of an air conditioner depends on how well it is maintained and how often it is used. The average life of an air conditioner is about 15-20 years, but this can vary depending on the model, the brand, and whether or not regular maintenance has been performed.

If your air conditioner is more than 15-20 years old, or if it has had several repairs in the past two years, consider replacing it with a new energy-efficient model. Newer models use less energy and have better insulation which makes them more efficient at cooling your home.

How do I know if my air conditioner needs to be replaced?

The best way to find out if your air conditioner needs to be replaced is to call a professional for an inspection.

The technician will look at the age of the unit, its maintenance history, and any other factors that could have contributed to premature failure or decreased efficiency. The technician may also test the efficiency of your system by running a diagnostic check on it.

This will give them an idea of how much energy and money you’re saving with your current setup. If your system is older than 15-20 years or is not performing well, it may need replacement.

How often should you replace your AC?

The answer to this question depends on several factors, including how much you use your air conditioner and where you live.

An air conditioner that’s in constant use will wear out faster than one that goes unused for long periods of time. Air conditioners often last between 10 and 15 years if they’re used regularly throughout the year.

If they’re turned off during the summer or used only when needed, they can last up to 20 years. There are also certain signs that indicate it may be time to replace your AC system:

  • You notice a strange noise coming from the unit
  • The compressor starts making a whining sound
  • Your unit is louder than usual, which could mean it needs maintenance or repair

Why do Air Conditioners Only last 15 years?

The short answer is because they have moving parts that wear out over time. The compressor, fan and other components wear down and need to be replaced.

The refrigerant leaks out, causing it to lose efficiency. Air leaks cause further issues as well as increased energy costs due to increased “loss” of conditioned air from your home through vents and seals around doors and windows.

Can an AC unit last 30 years?

Yes, it is possible for an air conditioning unit to last 30 years. It all depends on how well you take care of it. Air conditioners are machines that run on electricity.

They pull electricity from the power grid to run the compressor and fan that cools the air inside your home or business. They also pull electricity to power their circuit boards and other components.

As a result of running on electricity, air conditioners can be damaged by electrical surges and brownouts (low voltage conditions).

These events can cause damage to the compressor, which is usually what leads to failure in older units. An older unit may not have been built with surge protection circuits or have the ability to automatically detect voltage issues and switch over to battery-powered operation when there’s a problem with the main power line.

If you’re considering buying an older used air conditioning unit, make sure it has these features so it won’t fail prematurely.

Should I replace my 20-year-old Air Conditioner?

If your air conditioner is more than 20 years old, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement. Here are some reasons why you should consider replacing your old system:

  1. It’s more energy efficient. Newer air conditioners have features that can save you money on your electricity bill. They use less electricity and don’t wear out as fast as older models.
  2. It’s quieter. Newer equipment uses advanced technology to reduce noise.
  3. It will last longer. The average lifespan of an air conditioner is about 15 years. Older units often start to wear out after 10 years, which is when they’re at their most inefficient and least reliable.
  4. It’s better for the environment. Newer models use less energy and produce fewer emissions than older ones do.

Conclusion

In general, if the systems are maintained properly and have been installed correctly, an air conditioning system can last for many years with little or no maintenance. If these things are not maintained properly, it may be time to replace the system.