How Long Do AC Units Last? A Homeowner's Guide

Factors That Affect How Long An Air Conditioner Lasts

Mike Lea, co-owner of Lea Heating & Air Conditioning in East Dundee, IL, says several factors influence an air conditioner’s lifespan — including:

• How often routine maintenance is performed
• How much the unit is used
• The quality of the installation
• Proper system sizing
• The capacitor’s voltage

The local climate also plays a big role, according to Lea.

“We typically see lifespans of units in the Deep South being shorter than those in the North because they’re used year-round,” Lea said.

Let's take a closer look into each of these factors:

1. Maintenance and Care

Regular AC maintenance is the single most important factor in extending your air conditioner's lifespan. An annual or biannual AC tune up from a qualified technician ensures your air conditioning system operates at peak efficiency. During a service visit, a technician will clean coils, inspect  AC refrigerant levels, replace filters, and check for wear. Neglecting this crucial step leads to reduced efficiency and unnecessary strain, which can cause premature breakdowns.

2. Usage Patterns

How often you use your central air conditioner directly impacts its longevity. Systems in hot climates that run for months on end will naturally experience more wear than those in milder regions. Constant operation due to poor insulation or incorrect thermostat settings also shortens the lifespan of components. To reduce strain, run your AC only when necessary and use a programmable thermostat to optimize its schedule.

3. Proper Installation

The quality of the initial AC installation is critical for long-term performance and air conditioner longevity. An improperly installed unit—whether it's the wrong size or poorly connected—will work harder than necessary, leading to increased wear and early failure. A system that is too large will cycle on and off frequently, while an undersized unit will run constantly. Both scenarios strain the system. Always use a licensed professional to ensure correct sizing and installation.

4. Air Quality and Environment

Your home's environment affects how hard your AC unit has to work. In areas with high levels of dust, pollen, or pollutants, filters clog faster, which reduces airflow and efficiency. High humidity and salty air in coastal regions can also cause corrosion on coils and other internal parts. Regularly replacing air filters and keeping the outdoor unit clear of debris helps mitigate these environmental impacts.

5. Quality and Age of the Unit

The build quality of your AC unit and types of air conditioner plays a significant role in its lifespan. Premium models from reputable manufacturers are constructed with more durable components designed to last 15 years or more. In contrast, lower-quality units may fail much sooner. As any AC unit ages, its efficiency declines, and repair costs can eventually outweigh the price of a replacement.

Signs Your AC Unit Needs Replacement

Knowing when to replace your AC unit can save you from unexpected breakdowns and high energy bills. Here are some common signs that it's time for AC replacement:

• Rising Energy Bills: A sudden, unexplained spike in your electricity costs suggests your AC unit has lost efficiency and is working harder to cool your home.
• Frequent Repairs: If you find yourself constantly calling for repairs, investing in a new, reliable system is often more cost-effective.
• Age: If your AC is over 15 years old and experiencing problems, it is likely approaching the end of its useful life. Modern units offer significantly better efficiency.
• Inconsistent Performance: An AC blowing warm air, making strange noises, or failing to cool your home evenly are all indicators of major internal problems that may require a full replacement.

6 Tips To Extend How Long Your AC Unit Lasts

You can actively extend the life of your air conditioner with these six expert tips:

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance. Routine professional AC maintenance is key to keeping your AC running smoothly. Have a technician inspect and tune-up your system at least once a year, ideally before the hot season starts. Regular maintenance includes tasks like cleaning the coils, checking refrigerant levels, and replacing worn AC parts, which helps prevent breakdowns and keeps the system efficient.
2. Replace Filters Regularly. Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow, making your AC work harder to cool your space. Check and replace the filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak cooling seasons, to ensure the system runs efficiently and the air remains clean. Learn more about air filter replacement.
3. Clear the Perimeter: Keep the outdoor unit free of bushes and debris to maintain proper airflow. 
4. Stabilize Temperatures: Use a programmable thermostat to maintain consistent temperatures, reducing wear on the compressor.
5. Seal Leaks and Improve Insulation. Check for gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork. Sealing leaks and adding insulation to your home can reduce the workload on your AC unit by keeping cool air inside and warm air outside, ensuring it doesn’t have to work overtime.
   
6. Clean the Coils. Dust and debris can build up on both the evaporator and condenser coils, reducing efficiency. Clean the coils carefully once a year, or have a professional do it during routine maintenance. Learn more about how to clean AC coils.

Connect With A Bryant Dealer For Your AC Unit Needs

If you need expert air conditioning service, your local Bryant dealer is ready to help. Bryant dealers provide high-quality split AC units and professional AC installation, maintenance, and repair services to keep your home comfortable all year. Reach out today for a consultation.