Your air conditioner suddenly goes silent. Your house starts warming up in the bright Florida sun. With a sinking feeling, you check the thermostat. You fiddle with the temperature settings and then flip the switch off and back on. It’s no use — the AC is dead. As you set up a repair call, you try to remember exactly how old the system is. Has it been a decade already? Or is it even older than that? You might be better off replacing the system than repairing it.
Lifespan of Air Conditioners
The average life of air conditioners depends on a number of things, including location. In St. Petersburg FL, your air conditioner works hard to keep you cool for an extended period that could stretch from March or April all the way into November. In a northern state, the ac might be needed for only two to three months. This extra service time, understandably, can affect the life of the unit. Another major factor affecting how long air conditioners last is the amount of service and care that the system receives over the years. If you skip tregular tuneups, allow debris to clog the outdoor unit and ignore filter changes; you have a recipe for early replacement.
Tips to Extend the Life of an AC
Even in Florida’s tough humid climate, how long an air conditioner might last can be positively impacted with a little TLC. Start protecting your investment from the beginning by scheduling routine maintenance every spring. The coils need regular cleaning, and the drain system needs to be checked for blockages. The technician will also check the refrigerant and inspect the unit for worn-out parts. As a homeowner, you should also make it a habit to periodically clear any piled leaves or debris from around the outside unit. Inside, make yourself a note to change the filter every month.Manufacturers also recommend that you keep furniture and curtains away from the vents and refrain from running the AC in chilly weather. If your ductwork hasn’t been inspected recently, consider asking a technician to check for leaks. Leaky ducts force your air conditioner to work extra hard to cool the home. Sealing the ductwork can help the unit run more efficiently, which could translate to less energy consumption throughout the season.
Reasons to Upgrade Your AC
If your air conditioner is nearing the 10-year mark or is even older, it’s time to start thinking about replacement. The good news is that new air conditioners achieve greater energy efficiency than models from just 10 to 15 years ago, so you could see an immediate change in your energy bills. New units also use eco-friendly refrigerants that take less of a toll on the environment.
Senica Air Conditioning, Inc. can help you evaluate whether it’s time for a new air conditioner. We’ve been serving the area since 1974, so you can rest assured that we’re more concerned with providing excellent service than with pushing someone into a quick sale. Call Senica Air today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation with a heating and cooling specialist.
