how long do ac units last
& How to Extend its longevity
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Comfort
Keeping your air conditioner running smoothly year-round is no small feat. In the hotter months, you’ll likely use it for at least 10 hours a day, which is why it’s so important to have an AC unit that functions optimally since this will directly impact how comfortable you and your family members are in your home. A common problem with many AC units is that they tend to break down more often than other appliances. This is because they operate in conditions that are challenging for them: They’re cooled to very low temperatures, and their motors run constantly. That being said, there are steps you can take now to increase the lifespan of your AC unit and keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Service your AC once a year
If you want to keep your AC unit running smoothly for as long as possible, it’s important to service it regularly. This can be done once a year, depending on your AC unit. Regularly servicing your AC unit ensures that it’s operating optimally.
This includes checking the voltage, checking that the compressor is working, and ensuring that it isn’t leaking any water. If you find that your outdoor unit needs to be fixed, it’s best to get it serviced right away. This way, you can prevent any issues from worsening and save yourself some money in the long run.
Check your filter regularly
One of the easiest and most effective ways to increase the lifespan of your AC unit is to maintain it properly. One of the easiest ways to do this is to check your filter regularly to see if it needs to be replaced.
In many cases, a dirty filter can negatively affect the efficiency of your AC unit. This is because it will take your unit longer to cool your house down, which will increase your energy bills and shorten the lifespan of your AC unit. It’s recommended that you check your filter every one to two weeks during the hotter months to make sure it’s clean and functional.
Clean your evaporator coil
Another common issue with AC units is that they can build up excessive dust and grime on their evaporator coils. This is a big problem since this is what cools your home down. If the coils are covered in dust, they won’t be able to pull in the cool air that you want.
While this isn’t an issue if you live in a desert climate, if you live in a humid environment, this can lead to the growth of bacteria and mold inside your AC unit. This will not only make your AC unit less effective, but it can also be dangerous. Clean your evaporator coil once a month during the warmer months to keep your unit running smoothly and efficiently.
Change your air filter monthly
Another important and easy maintenance task is testing. Testing the HVAC system while operating allows us to recover the system's vitals so that we can then compare these test results with the manufactures specified acceptable ranges.. and changing your air filter monthly. This will improve the airflow in your house and reduce your energy costs. Although the air filter is something that you might not think about regularly, it is essential for keeping your AC unit running smoothly.
If you don’t replace your air filter as regularly as you should, this can lead to decreased airflow and poor circulation throughout your home. This will result in your AC unit having to work harder to keep you cool, which will increase your energy bills. With that being said, most modern AC units will have an indicator light that will let you know when your air filter needs to be changed.
You might not realize it, but investing in regular AC maintenance can go a long way in improving the lifespan of your unit and keeping your family comfortable. If you follow these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your AC unit and prevent any issues from worsening.
To read more about the factors that will affect the longevity of your AC or heating equipment, check out this article from ACHRnews.
