When it comes to your air conditioning unit, understanding its lifespan and when to replace it is crucial for keeping your home comfortable year-round. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect, what to watch for, and how Glacier HVAC approaches both repairs and maintenance.
The Typical Lifetime of an AC Unit
The lifespan of an AC unit can vary depending on a number of factors, including where you live and the environment around your system. On average, if you’re living near the beach, your AC unit will last between 5-8 years. Salt air and high humidity can wear down components like the evaporator and condensing coils more quickly, causing deterioration over time.
In contrast, if you’re living inland, your AC unit has a better chance of reaching a lifespan of 12-15 years. For commercial spaces or homes with rooftop HVAC systems, like apartments or condos, the lifespan tends to be shorter—typically 5-8 years due to the additional exposure to elements and wear from being situated on a rooftop.
When Is It Time to Replace Your AC Unit?
Knowing when to replace your AC unit can be tricky, as it’s a significant financial investment. However, there are a few guidelines to help you make the right decision. If you’re facing a repair that costs over $1,500, and the unit is nearing the end of its life (often due to age or frequent breakdowns), it may be worth considering replacement.
For example, a compressor replacement can cost up to $2,000, and if your system is consistently having issues, investing in a newer, more efficient unit might save you money in the long run. We work with each customer individually to ensure they’re comfortable with their decision and help them understand the financial implications of either repairing or replacing their system.
What Goes Wrong First with an Older AC Unit?
The first part of your AC unit that tends to fail as it ages is the evaporator coil. This crucial component faces constant exposure to indoor pollutants, dirt, cleaning chemicals, and humidity. In coastal areas, salt air can also accelerate wear and tear, causing the coil to corrode. Eventually, this leads to inefficiency and possible breakdowns.
For beach residents, the condensing coil is another part that can suffer due to salt exposure. This leads to rust and potential leaks, further damaging the system.
Things to Consider When Replacing Your HVAC System
When faced with replacing your HVAC system, you should consider a few important factors:
- How long do you plan on staying in your current home? If you’re planning to sell soon, replacing your system may not be worth the investment.
- Is this a chance to relocate your AC unit or improve the ductwork? For example, adding ducts to a bedroom could improve air circulation.
- Are you looking for a quieter or more energy-efficient unit? A newer system can help lower your energy bills significantly, making it a worthwhile investment if you plan to stay in the home long-term.
- Understand your options: Based on your specific needs, the Glacier team will walk you through which unit makes the most sense for you, and provide a complete estimate so there are no unforeseen expenses.
Glacier HVAC’s Approach to AC Repair and Maintenance
At Glacier HVAC, we take a transparent, “show and tell” approach with our customers. If something’s malfunctioning in your system, we’ll show you exactly where the issue lies and explain its impact. This helps homeowners understand the problem at hand and make informed decisions.
When it comes to maintenance, we offer helpful tips such as:
- Replace your filter every 30-90 days to maintain good airflow.
- Keep the area around your AC unit clear of debris to ensure optimal performance.
- Set your thermostat to a consistent temperature to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the system.
- Avoid frequently turning your AC up and down, as this can cause humidity issues and unnecessary wear and tear.
By following these tips, you can prolong the life of your system and keep it running smoothly.
If you’d like more information on our affordable Maintenance Plan or need HVAC repair, you can contact us 24/7 at (904) 540-8199.
