Your home’s HVAC system is one of the most important investments that you can make. Not only is it responsible for your daily comfort, but it also helps keep the air that you breathe healthy and fresh.
Your system’s lifespan can vary based on several factors. Our team at Baldwin Heating and Air Conditioning has compiled a guide to understanding how long your home’s HVAC system will last.
Lifespans of HVAC Components
On average, your heating and cooling system lasts around 15 to 20 years. This time can vary based on your climate and how often you run your unit. Although this timeframe is broad, the individual components that make up the system each have a specific service life.
Air Conditioning Units
The average AC lifespan is around 12 to 17 years if maintained properly. Routine AC maintenance keeps your unit functioning at peak performance. It also lengthens its overall service life.
Heat Pumps
A heat pump usually lasts around 15 years, depending on its usage. Ensuring that your heat pump is taken care of helps the unit reach a longer lifespan.
Furnaces
Your home’s furnace can function anywhere from 15 to 20 years. Furnaces may show signs of needing repair sooner. Professional maintenance can prevent an unnecessary costly replacement in the future.
Extending Your HVAC System’s Lifespan
Numerous factors can impact how long your heating and cooling system lasts. Measures can be taken to help you get the most out of your home’s heating and cooling units.
Routine Professional Maintenance
Maintenance can identify potential problems before they turn into an issue. Technicians will also thoroughly clean your units during inspections. These precautions take care of your unit, helping it last longer.
Clean Your Ducts Regularly
Blockages in your vents and ductwork can cause your system to overwork itself. Excessive air conditioning usage can cause malfunctions in the future. Filthy ducts may cause issues to occur in your heating and cooling units.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Though the Summer can be dreadfully hot, your system can face damage if constantly running. Programmable thermostats can help relieve your system when it does not need to run.
You can change the temperature settings with these devices, allowing it to run only when your family is home.
When to Consider an HVAC Replacement
Even with regular tune-ups, an HVAC replacement is necessary at some point. There are a few signs to take into account when considering an overall replacement.
HVAC Age
Different parts of your system age at different rates. However, professionals recommend replacing your heating and cooling units roughly every 15 to 20 years.
Older units are less energy efficient, leading to more wear and tear.
Rising Energy Bills
It is not unusual for energy bills to be higher during colder or hotter months. However, if your bills are consistently high despite no change, this may be a sign of needing a new installation.
Frequent Repairs
Repairs are not uncommon, but excessive repairs are a signal of issues in your overall system. If repetitive maintenance is becoming close to the price of a new system, a replacement may be the more cost-efficient option.
Contact The Daphne HVAC Pros!
The technicians at Baldwin Heating and Cooling aim to help with Daphne AC replacement! If you have questions about your system, we’re here to help. Give us a call today to learn more about your next steps!