How Long Does an Air Conditioner Last on Average? - Guy's AC & Heating

Spring is coming up, and depending on where you live, the climate may vary. It’s a good idea to check up on your air conditioner to see if it’s able to keep your home in the right climate for the rest of 2022.

But what if you’ve had the same air conditioning unit for a long time? How long does an air conditioner last before it needs to be repaired or replaced?

That’s what we’re here to look at today. Read on to find out more about what affects an air conditioner’s lifespan. 

What Determines Air Conditioner Lifespan?

Before we investigate how long air conditioners last, it’s important to understand what causes AC systems to last longer or shorter than others. The most important factor is, of course, usage.

The more you use your air conditioner, the more wear-and-tear you put on it. Doing so means you’ll have to repair or replace it much more often. This often depends on the climate you live in and the number of people in your home.

For example, an air conditioning system can last quite a long time in temperate climates like Massachusetts. They might not last as long in states like Texas because of the hotter average summer climates.

Other factors include how often you get your AC system checked out and the extent to which you actually maintain it. Those who are adamant about maintenance can see their AC units last much longer than others. 

So How Long Does an Air Conditioner Last?

An average lifespan of an air conditioning unit is anywhere between 12 to 17 years. Depending on some of the factors stated above, your AC unit might last up to several decades.

If you installed your AC unit rather recently, it’s safe to wait at least ten years before considering an upgrade. That is, of course, unless your AC unit is malfunctioning or starting to show some strange signs.

Air conditioning units can give off a grating, rattling, whining, or grinding sound when something inside it is off. It can also cause your home to feel more humid than normal. 

Are you noticing some dust or debris on furniture around the house near your AC units or exhausts? This might be a sign that your air conditioner is in need of repair.

In most cases, these signs won’t show in the first few years of owning a new AC system. However, if your unit has been in use for five to eight years, it’s time to look for these signs.

Okay, But How Long Will My Air Conditioner Last?

You might be thinking to yourself: “Okay, I understand that AC units last up to two or three decades, but what about my unit specifically?”

While we can’t answer definitely on your behalf, we have a few pointers you can look at to determine your air conditioner’s lifespan. First, was your AC unit installed properly, and is it a name-brand product?

Proper installation is crucial for judging the proper lifespan of your AC unit, as poorly installed products often lead to faster degradation. Name brand units are also much more reliable since they often undergo numerous tests.

The best way to know for sure whether your unit was installed properly is through a certified professional. This eliminates any errors when setting up your AC unit.

Other factors that affect your air conditioner’s lifespan are the climate and environment in which it’s installed. Do you live in a temperate climate? Do you know if your AC unit is weather sealed?

Inclement weather can affect AC systems due to external damage. Moreover, living in a temperate climate means you’re bound to add more wear-and-tear to your air conditioner from heavier use.

How to Ensure Long-Lasting Air Conditioner

Since there are so many factors affecting the lifespan of your AC unit, how do you ensure it lasts as long as possible? The first step is to schedule regular inspections and maintenance visits from a professional.

Some manufacturer warranties require this for their AC products. In any case, it’s the most responsible decision you can make for your air conditioning unit.

Having a qualified technician taking a look at your AC unit every year or so will tip you off to any lingering issues. That way, you can take productive measures toward any needed fixes. 

There are also ways you yourself can extend your AC unit’s lifespan, such as using it less whenever possible. You can also adjust the temperatures to make sure the AC unit isn’t overexerting itself.

Replacing or Repairing Air Conditioner

The big question that homeowners ask themselves whenever their air conditioner starts to act up is: do I replace or just repair my AC unit? This all depends on how long you’ve had your AC system and how it’s held up.

For example, if you’ve only had your air conditioner for a few years and this is the first time a major issue has cropped up, it’s better just to call a repairman. Your AC unit is probably just in need of a quick fix.

If, however, your air conditioner is frequently causing issues and constantly breaking down, then you should think about replacing your air conditioner. You should call a technician anyway to get a solid second opinion.

Even if your AC system doesn’t break down very often, it’s never a bad time to look at alternatives. AC units are more efficient than ever, meaning you can save money by considering a new machine.

Understanding Your Air Conditioner

When asking yourself “how long does an air conditioner last,” things like location, brand, and how often you use it matters. Leverage this guide to help you know how much your AC unit has left in the tank! 

Looking for reliable air conditioner repair services in the Texas area? Contact us today and we’ll get you started on a solution right away!