How Long Should My AC Unit Last?

Ever wondered how many more years your AC unit will last? On average, most HVAC systems will last about 15 to 25 years. However, like all other household appliances or systems, eventually, an HVAC system will begin to lose its efficiency over time depending on maintenance or repairs.

At Brown Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we know that overall performance will depend on the health of the different parts of an HVAC system, such as the AC unit, heat pump, or furnace if part of the system. Some of these pieces can wear out faster than others, and knowing how to identify which parts are failing can save time and money. Continue reading to find out how long your HVAC system should last!

Different Lifespans of HVAC Equipment

Furnaces

Gas furnaces can last up to 20 to 30 years, while oil furnaces could last 10 to 15 years. You will know these need to be replaced when the heat exchanger starts leaking. For poorly maintained furnaces, expect them to last around 10 years.

Boilers

Boilers can last relatively long, with the average being 20 to 35 years. Similar to a furnace, they need to be replaced if the heat exchange begins leaking.

Air Conditioning Units

Depending on upkeep, an AC lifespan can range from 15 to 20 years, though some may begin to wear out closer to 10. Also, if you live in a coastal area near seawater, expect your equipment to wear out faster than it should. This is due to salt exposure that easily wears away much machinery.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps most commonly last 10 to 20 years, with 15 being the average. Similar to AC units, heat pumps can fail too soon in coastal areas due to the different climates and salt exposure, with their lifespans averaging 7 to 12 years.

Ductless, Mini-Split Systems

Ductless, mini-split systems can last a long time if well-taken care of! These small, convenient ways of heating and cooling your room last up to 30 years, or again depending on location, 10 years in more humid, coastal areas.

Reasons for Failure

There can be a variety of reasons your HVAC system is wearing out faster than usual. Normal wear and tear is normal, and over time will affect how all components perform. Additionally, the installation of the different components can factor in how early they begin to wear out.

As mentioned, physical location can play a big role. If you live in an area with high humidity, this can cause your AC unit and evaporator coils to work harder to freeze that air and dehumidify and cool your home.

If you live near the coast, the salt exposure in the air will affect your HVAC system and more than likely require them to be replaced early. Having all this information in mind can help you pinpoint which parts of your system may need possible air conditioning maintenance.

Contact Us for Professional Maintenance

If you suspect your AC unit or any other components are in need of a tune-up or replacement, it is best to contact a professional. With special equipment and knowledge, they will know the best course of action for your home HVAC system. For all air conditioning services, contact our team at Brown Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today!