AC Replacement: Facts and Figures to Help You Decide

HVAC Lifespan: What You Need to Know for AC Replacement

Will this be the year that you replace your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system? Many people will. A few people will replace their system as part of a repair or remodeling project. The remaining people in this category fall into two categories:

• Homeowners who know the age and condition of their HVAC system, and are making plans to replace it on schedule.
• Homeowners who are not aware and assume their HVAC system will last indefinitely.

Facts About Aging and How They Affect AC Replacement

• Central heating and air conditioning systems have been around for a long time. The technology was deemed stable and the cost was affordable in the ‘50s and ‘60s.
• A whole branch of engineering has developed around HVAC systems. Some engineers do research and others design equipment.
• Manufacturers have developed quality components and have a tremendous reputation for excellence and longevity.
• The US Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy regulate various aspects of HVAC manufacturing and installation.

The experience and expertise of these professionals agree that the average heating components have a useful life of about 20 years and the average air conditioning components have a useful life of about 15 years. Keeping these systems well-maintained often adds another five years to these components. These are statistical averages and not absolute deadlines, but they bear up over 65 to 75 years.

Aging Sequence and How It Affects AC Replacement

Research and experience also reveal a predictable aging sequence that homeowners can follow.

• The first ten years will pass without much problem. Energy efficiency will be at a maximum for the system and few repairs will be needed. Since all is well, it is easy for homeowners to neglect maintenance and regular filter changes. However preventative maintenance cleans vital parts and checks various systems. If a problem does develop in the first decade, it is generally small; routine maintenance will catch small problems before they become large problems.
• Years 11 to 15 continue to be relatively problem-free, but observant homeowners may detect a loss of efficiency. This can be distinguished from rising energy prices by checking the kilowatt-hour use or volume of natural gas used in the same month year after year. It is also common to need some minor repairs during these years. Again, catching them during routine maintenance is much better than when the system breaks down since a breakdown is apt to happen at the most inopportune time.
• Years 16 and beyond will likely be marked by further loss of efficiency and a greater potential for needed repairs. At some point, a major component will need to be replaced because of predictable wear and tear. The cost of repairing an old system can rival the cost of a complete replacement.

If you do not know the age of your HVAC system, the information is readily available. Find the Model/Serial number plate for any system component. HVAC manufacturers’ websites can take this information and ascertain when the equipment was manufactured and give a relatively accurate determination of when it was installed.

This information, combined with the research and experience of mechanical engineers, offers homeowners a wealth of information to help them make decisions concerning when to replace their system. Planning a replacement is much preferred to waiting for a sudden and unexpected catastrophic failure, with an emergency replacement.

Your AC Replacement Guide: Age, Efficiency, and Planning

Air conditioning units’ lifespan averages about 15 years and heating around 20, emphasizing that proper maintenance can extend these timelines. The aging process, from peak efficiency in the first decade to increasing repair needs and efficiency loss in later years, advises proactive AC replacement planning over emergency breakdowns. Homeowners are encouraged to determine their system’s age using model/serial numbers and consider replacement before significant failures occur.

With our four decades of experience as an AC replacement contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the skill and expertise to assist with your HVAC repair questions.

We have several financing options available with great options. Up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call us today at  281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your North Houston Furnace Repair needs.