It's highly unlikely that your HVAC unit will last 30 years before it needs to be replaced. However, if you follow a regular preventive maintenance routine and operate it properly, your chances of keeping the same unit for about 15 years increase considerably. More expensive items tend to last much longer. Central air units will last 12 to 17 years with average use and good maintenance.
They tend to fail before components that produce heat due to moisture that passes through the system and runs out. The chemicals used in the system to cool and dehumidify the air, as well as the chemicals that pass through the system from the building materials of the house, are corrosive to the copper elements of the condenser and can cause them to erode and decay. The size of the unit does not affect its lifespan, unless it's not the right size for your home. For example, if you have a small 1.5 ton air conditioner trying to cool a house that actually needs a 5 ton air conditioner, the unit will break down much faster from overuse than if you had a properly sized (but more expensive) unit.
The lifespan of a furnace can also vary depending on the type of fuel you use. Gas furnaces usually last 20 to 30 years, while petroleum furnaces usually last 10 to 15 years. Ovens are essential to many air conditioning systems, as they provide heating in cold climates. By taking steps to maintain your HVAC system, reducing unnecessary use, and choosing high-quality equipment, you can help extend its life and save money on repairs and replacements in the long term.
HVAC technology has come a long way and your home's energy efficiency is affected simply by keeping older HVAC technology, so it's time to think about a replacement, even if it “continues to work well”. Many utility companies will offer you discounts on air conditioning systems when you're ready to upgrade your air conditioning system to an energy-efficient model. But how do you know when to replace your home's HVAC systems? What are your replacement options? And how can you get the air conditioning system you need without draining your bank account? When it's time to replace or maintain your HVAC system, be sure to work with a qualified HVAC contractor such as GS Mechanical. What most homeowners don't know is that, even with a newer, energy efficient HVAC system, if your home isn't properly insulated or professionally sealed, the lifespan of your HVAC system is automatically shortened.
