Modern air conditioning units have been around for more than 100 years, though the history of attempting to remove heat and control humidity in enclosed spaces dates back to Ancient Egypt. Today’s air conditioners are essential pieces of equipment in American homes. They help to keep our homes cool, improve air quality, and reduce the likelihood of insects and parasites.

If you own an air conditioner or are planning to buy one, it’s useful to know how long it can be expected to last. We’ll consider this subject in this blog post and also highlight some warning signs that your air conditioner requires repair or maintenance.

How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?

If you have a good-quality air conditioning unit that is well-maintained with average use, you can generally expect it to last 12 to 17 years. That’s pretty good; air conditioners are seen as good value purchases that pay for themselves in the long run (especially during those hot summers).

Of course, there are factors that will determine the lifespan of an air conditioning unit. These include:

• Manufacturer of AC
• Amount of use
• Level of maintenance
• Placement of AC
• Airflow restrictions

If you’ve had your air conditioner for a decade or more, you may notice more issues with it. Regular maintenance can help it to continue working effectively for several more years.

Warning Signs That Your AC Needs Repair

Without proper repair when required and periodic maintenance, your air conditioning unit likely won’t last as long as you would like. If you notice that your energy bills have recently become higher, it’s a possible sign that your AC isn’t working as efficiently as it should.

If the unit is making unusual noises, this is another clue. Of course, it’s normal for it to make a low hum when in use, but screeching or banging noises are definitely not normal.

Other signs that you require AC repair include:

• AC is leaking
• Low airflow from AC
• Uneven cooling in your home
• AC coil is frozen

When your AC is acting up, you should contact an HVAC expert without delay. In the Modesto area of California, your No. 1 choice is Wally Falke’s Heating & Air Conditioning. Contact them here today.

Ensure Your Air Conditioners Last for Years

As we have seen, a well-maintained AC, be that a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner, can last between 12 to 17 years. At the first sign of trouble with your AC, you should contact a professional HVAC company.

Periodic maintenance checks and swift repair work can help to keep your unit working effectively and efficiently for many years. Don’t ignore the warning signs that we have highlighted above; the longer you leave a problem, the more expensive the repair could be. 

Like this blog post on the average lifespan of air conditioners? Be sure to check out our other interesting articles on the rest of our blog today.