How Long Do New Air Conditioners Last?

If you just bought a new air conditioner, you’re probably excited about the powerful, efficient cooling it will provide your home – not to mention the lower monthly energy bills! But one question many homeowners often have after buying a new AC unit is: How long do new air conditioners last?

Keep reading to learn more about the life expectancy of a new central air conditioning system and what factors affect its lifespan. For all of your cooling needs, including maintenance, repair, and installation services, contact Robinson Heating & Air Conditioning today.

How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?

The answer to this question depends on several factors. A few key ways to get the most service life out of your AC unit are proper maintenance and purchasing a quality air conditioner with excellent professional installation. A few factors out of your control include the climate in which you live and how often an air conditioner is used. However, on average, air conditioners often last about 15-20 years if timely repairs and annual maintenance are performed on the system. A lack of either of those can significantly reduce the lifespan of air conditioners. If you let a repair linger or skipped maintenance, your air conditioner may only last 10-15 years.

Specific Factors that Affect an Air Conditioner’s Lifespan

Whether you just purchased a new system or you are new homeowner with an existing system in your home, the following factors play the most significant role in determining the lifespan of your new air conditioning system:

Maintenance

Busy homeowners often forget to schedule regular maintenance for their new air conditioning unit, which is a big mistake. Having proper maintenance performed each spring allows your HVAC technician to completely inspect the system, adjust and clean necessary parts, and look for minor issues and recommend repairs before they lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the road. A lack of maintenance can lead to increased wear and tear, decreased efficiency, and, yes, a shorter lifespan.

Quality of the AC Unit

As the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. Although you may save a few dollars now by buying a cheaper unit with a lower Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio rating, these air conditioning units may require more repairs and wear down more quickly, leading to early replacement. When you partner with local HVAC company technicians measure your home and match you with the right equipment for your home and family. Some of the key questions to ask are:

• What size of air conditioning unit do I need?
• How can the higher SEER ratings help save on my monthly bills?
• What are the most durable models that fit my home?
• Can indoor air quality accessories help my family?
• What is the warranty coverage and terms?

Climate

Where you live also affects how long your new air conditioner will last. Homeowners in Middletown, OH use their air conditioning systems for a few months each year. Systems here typically last longer than a unit installed in the South where air conditioners can run for the majority of the year. Higher humidity levels and exposure to severe weather can impact the durability of air conditioners in Ohio.  

Usage Patterns

How you use your air conditioner also plays a role in its lifespan. Homeowners who enjoy a cold house during the summer may set the temperature to 68 degrees during the day. This will cause your cooling system to stay running longer and work harder to reach the set temperature, increasing wear and tear. Setting your AC to 78 degrees, the Department of Energy’s recommended setting, will save you a significant amount on your monthly energy bills and potentially add years of life to your AC unit. If 78 is too hot, try bumping up the temperature at least a couple of degrees.

When installing a new system consider installing a smart thermostat to save money. Smart thermostats learn your patterns and adjust your AC system automatically. Reduced energy consumption saves you on bills and improves the health of our AC unit.

Installation

Attempting to install an air conditioning system yourself or hiring an inexperienced contractor can lead to an improper air conditioning installation, including inadequate ventilation or improper sizing. This can cause the AC system to work harder than necessary, leading to increased wear and tear and a shorter lifespan. When you entrust experienced, local HVAC technicians to install your new AC unit the equipment and the service will be backed by years of ongoing service and warranty coverage.

Enroll in Robinson’s Preferred Customer Maintenance Agreement

One of the easiest ways to ensure that regular air conditioning maintenance is performed is by enrolling in Robinson Heating & Air Conditioning’s Preferred Customer Maintenance Agreement. As part of the plan, you’ll receive two HVAC visits per year (one in the spring and one in the fall), plus 24-hour emergency service, a discount on repairs, price protection, and much more. Contact us today to learn more about our HVAC maintenance plans.

Contact Robinson for Air Conditioning Installation in Middletown, OH

For more than 75 years, Robinson Heating & Air Conditioning has proudly provided the residents of Middletown, OH and the surrounding area with high-quality heating and cooling services. Our technicians can install a brand-new air conditioning system in your home and provide regular maintenance to ensure it provides even, efficient cooling for years to come. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.