It’s only logical to get the most out of your HVAC system, given that it’s a substantial investment. An often-asked question by homeowners is, “What is the expected lifespan of an HVAC system?” The answer: it depends on your maintenance. Read on to learn more about how long an HVAC system should last.
Your HVAC System’s Lifespan
A typical HVAC system can last for 15–25 years, depending on several factors. It’s also important to keep in mind that the longevity of the various parts of your HVAC system differs. Large HVAC components like energy generators, pipelines, temperature controls, and air circulation units may last longer.
Routine maintenance may include the replacement of vent pipes, temperature controls, and thermostats. The following section analyzes some of the HVAC components and their lifespans.
Furnaces and Boilers
These are common methods of heating a building. While a furnace burns gas or oil, a boiler produces steam or hot water. The typical lifespan of a furnace is 15–25 years, depending on the model.
Most heat exchangers must be replaced when they begin to leak. When it comes to determining how long a furnace will last, proper installation and sizing are among the most important factors.
In most cases, boilers last between 20 to 35 years. When a heating element begins to leak, it normally must be replaced.
Air Conditioners
The quality of the air in your house may be improved with the use of an ac unit. Air conditioners typically have a 15-year life expectancy. Individuals who reside near the sea have noticed that their units degrade more rapidly because of salt absorption.
Therefore, the lifespan of an air conditioner in salty settings is between seven and ten years. When an air conditioner’s compressor breaks down, it’s usual practice to replace it. If the condenser begins to leak or corrode, it should be fixed immediately.
Thermostat
The thermostat oversees regulating the indoor temperature. Using this method, your HVAC system calculates whether it should warm or cool your home. The estimated lifespan of a thermostat is 25 years.
Factors Influencing an HVAC System’s Lifespan
It is possible to prolong the life of your HVAC system by doing a few simple things.
Installation
To get off to a good start, always have a professional install all your equipment. Because of poor installation, a range of issues can develop.
When devices are installed incorrectly, they may not work at all. Even if they seem to be effective, the unit may be exposed to increased stress. This might reduce component lifetime forecasts by half.
An HVAC professional may also assist you in ensuring that your unit is properly sized for your property. This is one way to prolong the lifecycle of your HVAC system right from the start.
Maintenance
HVAC service is the most important component in deciding how long your HVAC system will last. Properly maintaining your system will help it last longer. You can, fortunately, do specified maintenance procedures on your own.
Some tasks are simple, so you can easily do them yourself. For example, removing any blockages from your exterior unit and replacing the air filters on regularly. The more difficult ones, however, will need the assistance of an expert HVAC professional.
Regular cleanup and tune-ups by qualified specialists maintain the system in excellent working condition. Air conditioners should be serviced in the early spring, while furnaces should be serviced before it becomes chilly. Experts can clean condensers, motors, or overflow valves, adjust connections, and inspect for any flaws. Cleaning is a critical step to prevent these parts from becoming a larger and more costly issue.
If your system is doing well, yearly service may seem to be a waste of money. Even so, if a small problem is recognized and remedied before it becomes a major one, the money is wisely spent.
Some maintenance tasks may be completed without the need for a service call or costly components. Cleaning radiators, valves, vents, and changing filters increases system efficiency. More complex maintenance should be handled by professionals.
How Often Do You Use Your HVAC System?
Do you use your cooling system all day or only during the hottest part of the day? Does your heating system struggle to keep up with subzero temps for months? The regularity with which you use your system, as well as the weather conditions, have a direct impact on its life.
If you use it a lot, it can wear out faster and become less useful over time. Unfortunately, developments in insulation have generated new obstacles for HVAC systems.
A strong house envelope not only decreases your total energy consumption but also retains airflow in the house. This is good for your expenses, but it stops air from cycling as efficiently as it would in draftier homes. Chemicals, dust, and building debris may remain in the air and cause machines to malfunction.
The Bottom Line
Professional installation and maintenance may help extend the lifespan of any HVAC system. If need the services of a professional, consider giving us a call. Since 1989, Gallagher’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air has been proudly serving the Sacramento Valley. We’re here to help with all of your HVAC needs.
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