It’s probably a cliche to say that everyone wants to maximize the total lifespan of their HVAC equipment, right? Well, getting the most out of your unit’s expected number of working years is deemed customary―and of course, practical. And if you’re planning to purchase a new HVAC device, make sure you know the technicalities of the unit, including its normal lifespan.
Before buying one, it’s important that you consult an expert to guide you with the selection process. There are several top-rated HVAC companies to choose from, including AHWA for AC repair in Phoenix.
How long is the general lifespan of HVAC systems?
The lifespan of most HVAC systems ranges from 10 to 20 years, depending on a lot of factors. These include the HVAC type and model, along with its key components and parts. For instance, the average lifespan of a furnace is around 15 to 20 years while the heat pump can last for 10 to 20 years.
Aside from these core aspects, how the unit is installed and maintained also takes part in the longevity of the system. The number of repairs significantly impacts the working years of the equipment as well. Because of the varying elements to consider, it’s crucial to understand the major issues that may affect your HVAC system in general.
What are the issues to look out for to determine its working years?
To find out how long your HVAC system will last, you have to keep an eye on the following factors in detail:
● Location of the unit – First and foremost, you have to assess the place where the HVAC equipment is installed. And if the unit is positioned near cleaning agents, this causes early signs of wear and tear. The chemical elements give rise to the possible corrosion of parts.
● Environment – Units that are situated in homes nearby coastal areas generally have a shorter HVAC lifespan. It’s because of the salty air that engulfs the surroundings, which negatively impacts the unit.
Most of the HVAC parts are made out of metals, and unfortunately, metals exposed to salt air corrode ten times faster than those located in normal settings. As a result, your unit loses a few years of its entire lifespan because of frequent repairs.
● Oversize unit – Installing a unit bigger than the predetermined size for your room affects its cooling or heating power. One of the most unfortunate effects is short-cycling, which is characterized by a constant on-and-off sequence because the system could not complete the whole refrigeration cycle. As a result, the equipment exerts more effort to provide for your needs.
● Irregular maintenance – Lastly, inconsistent maintenance causes frequent repairs, which then leads to a shorter lifespan. Because of its correlation, HVAC owners should take into account the regular tune-up of units to keep them working effectively and efficiently.
What are some maintenance tips to improve the lifespan of the system?
To make the most out of your unit’s working power, try to incorporate these tips.
1. Clear up the dirt accumulated in the air filter.
Air filters play a pivotal role in improving not just the air quality but also the unit’s lifespan. Ideally, you have to clean the filters every two weeks, depending on your usage. Additionally, it’s advisable to have these filters replaced every 3 months to ensure that the air that circulates in the system and throughout your home is clean.
2. Clean the condenser line.
Eliminate harmful particles stuck in the condenser line by cleaning it regularly. You can actually do this on your own by using vinegar to drain the dirt. The vinegar not just flushes out the unwanted particles but also kills harmful bacteria.
3. Maintain the outside unit.
Debris and dirt could easily be trapped in the outdoor unit, especially during storms and heavy rains. These particles largely affect the working power of the unit. Therefore, you have to clean the outside equipment thoroughly to avoid harmful elements entering the system. You can make use of a hose to remove the dirt accumulated in the unit.
4. Adjust the thermostat accordingly.
Did you know that you can set the thermostat according to the season? To maximize your HVAC system’s cooling or heating capacity, you have to understand its technical aspects. During the winter months, set the thermostat to “warm”. Meanwhile, opt for the “cool” setting during the summer months.
5. Check for any possible leak.
Over time, your unit might have leaks in the system parts. The consequences of these leaks are often associated with a decrease in working efficiency or unfamiliar sounds coming from the unit. If this happens, you may try to evaluate the condition beforehand. If the issue could not be treated with normal measures, don’t think twice and get help from an HVAC technician.
When to consult an HVAC professional?
Knowing all the nuts and bolts of your HVAC system is truly important, especially with its price and relevance to your comfort. Therefore, you have to ensure the optimum working power of your unit through a regular tune-up. While it may appear not relevant to have your new unit checked by HVAC experts, this is highly recommended if you want to maximize the lifespan of the unit.
Consult a professional if the unit is not working efficiently like uneven cooling, unusual sounds, and increasing electricity bill even with no major improvement. Also, you need to schedule quarterly maintenance to clean all sections of the systems and help in identifying possible issues in the long run. With continued upkeep and maintenance, there is a greater possibility of a much better working capacity and longer lifespan.
When to repair and when to replace?
Though the typical lifespan of an HVAC system is 10 to 20 years, this does not mean that you have to completely restrict yourself to the same, old unit. You need to evaluate other factors so you save time, effort, and money.
If your unit frequently breaks down or if your energy bill continues to skyrocket even after numerous tune-ups, maybe it’s high time to let go of your old HVAC equipment. Replacing the unit is probably more practical than shelling out more money on costly repairs.