One of the most common questions asked by residents of Florida is how to increase the lifespan of their AC unit. You might even wonder how long your unit will last before it needs to be repaired or replaced. This makes sense, given that life without one in Florida could be akin to living inside an oven.
Typically, an AC unit should last 10 years or longer. Over time, the intense wear and tear on the unit determines how much use you can get out of it. Still, good maintenance and other factors can let you squeeze in a few more years if you play your cards right.
Although no two manufacturers produce air conditioning systems that are 100 percent alike, most systems will have the same potential lifespan if you maintain them properly. And, spoiler alert, if you take excellent care of your air conditioning system, it could be around for as long as 15-20 years! Read on to learn more about AC life expectancy, plus easy things you can do to ensure your system lasts for years to come.
Factors That Impact the Lifespan of an AC Unit
The most significant contributing factors to increasing the lifespan of an AC unit involve a few things:
- The manufacturer and proper installation.
- How well you take care of and maintain it.
- The system’s overall size and how often you are using it.
If you live in Florida, the environment alone has the potential to take a hit on your AC’s life, both due to how hot the system will get outside and the stress of trying to keep your home from feeling like a humid swamp. The good news is you can extend that lifespan significantly with regular AC maintenance.
3 Tips To Get the Most Out Of Your Air Conditioning System
AC units in Florida are exposed to some of the most intense beatings a unit can take, ranging from extreme heat to massive fluctuations like intense thunderstorms and hurricanes. It’s easy to understand why the lifespan is shorter than a standard unit. Toss in irregularities like salt and sulfur exposure from living by the water, and you’ve got a recipe that can easily have your unit screaming for a tune-up.
#1. Change the air filter
One of the best things you can do to maintain your air conditioning system is to change the air filter regularly. Luckily, it’s also one of the easiest, and you can do it in just a few minutes. Air filters work to stop particles like dander, dirt, and dust from infiltrating the rooms of your home, but an air filter can only do its job if it’s clean. When air filters get too dirty, not only will it put excess strain on your air conditioner, but it can hinder the air quality in your home.
#2. Keep the outdoor components clean
The condenser unit is the part of your air conditioning system located outside. While it’s pretty durable, overgrown grass and other debris can put a strain on your system. Getting in the habit of making sure grass, weeds, sticks, and the like haven’t overtaken the condenser will ensure your system functions properly for years to come.
#3. Schedule professional tune-ups
Keeping your air conditioning system maintained can feel intimidating for an AC novice, but luckily, your local HVAC professionals can help. Most reputable HVAC companies provide AC maintenance services designed to ensure your air conditioning system is in proper working order. Aside from keeping your AC working for years to come, routine professional tune-ups will lower your utility bills and reduce the need for repairs.
Need a Professional AC Tune-up? Join The Sansone Family Plan
If you want the most out of your unit, you can schedule routine maintenance with a local HVAC company. We’ll change your filters, check your electrical connections, refrigerant pressures, the amperage on your motor and so much more! With regular maintenance, you can expect your unit to last as long as possible; taking on seasonal tune-ups with our expert technicians will make this streamlined and easy to handle.
Broward: (954) 800-2858
Palm Beach: (561) 701-8274
St. Lucie: (772) 879-5656
Do you need maintenance on your AC unit? Schedule an appointment with our EZ Book Online button below.
