ACs can be expensive, so it’s a good thing you don’t have to replace them often. But how long does an AC in Baltimore, Maryland, really last? We wish we could give you a hard and fast number of years, but the truth is more complicated. Many factors contribute to how an AC ages, but you can always get the longest life out of your AC when you treat it well.
The Average Lifespan
Numerous factors go into how long an HVAC system lasts, so giving a typical lifespan is more complicated than you might think. But if we were to give you a number, then typically, ACs last for about 10-15 years. Some last for 20. Some last until they’re 25, if they’ve been taken care of very well. You might know someone who has had a system working for even longer, and that’s a combination of fantastic maintenance and good luck.
With that being said, many factors go into how long your system lasts. In Baltimore, for example, we don’t need to run our ACs all year like people do in Florida or Arizona, so our systems don’t sustain as much wear. At the same time, some Maryland homeowners might forget yearly maintenance because they don’t think about the AC as often as those who live in consistently hot climates.
Maintenance to Remember
To keep your HVAC system lasting as long as possible, you need to remember some key maintenance points. First, regularly change your AC filter. Do it at least once every two months during the seasons when you regularly run your AC. We think it’s best to do it once monthly, of course. Set a phone reminder, write it on your calendar, or set the filters right next to the air handler so that you remember. The dust and debris that collects in your system can damage the system faster than you think.
Second, schedule yearly AC maintenance. Spring is the most popular time to do it, but if you want to do it in another season, that’s fine. If signing up for a maintenance plan will help you remember, then we’ve got a great one. Otherwise, put it on your calendar, or do it on a significant day every year so you won’t forget.
Detriments to Your System
Other issues affect the life of your system, some of which you can’t control. When you bought your house, it probably already had an HVAC system that was good for several more years. Even if the previous owners provided maintenance receipts for every year they owned the house, you still can’t control who they used for service, or whether they changed those filters.
Correct installation and correct sizing are important, too. If you’re curious, have us over to check your system’s sizing and installation. Even things as simple as a badly insulated house can put undue pressure on the AC and work it harder than it needs to be working.
Efficiency Concerns
Your AC might (but probably will not) last for 20 years, but after two decades, far more efficient models will be on the market. Technically your AC still runs, but you still might see it as obsolete and at the end of its lifespan. A maintained system won’t drain your electricity the way an unmaintained system will, but an old system can’t ever have the efficiency of a new one. That’s why a lot of people replace their HVAC systems every 10 to 15 years, even if the old systems still run.
When was your last AC maintenance appointment? If it’s been a while, have a Griffith Energy Services technician take a look at it. We’re happy to answer questions about how your HVAC system is doing and give you pointers on keeping that AC running efficiently for as long as possible. We’re also here to help you choose a new system if your AC is nearing the end of its life, or if you want a more efficient option. Call us today at 888-474-3391.
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