It's important to be aware of how long air conditioners last, so you don't get the unwelcome surprise of a broken air conditioner in the peak of the summer heat. In general, air conditioners that are properly maintained can last 15 to 20 years.
There are a number of reasons why your air conditioner might be running but not cooling. It could be an issue with the thermostat, the compressor, or the evaporator coils. Or, it could simply be clogged with dust and debris, which is preventing it from working properly.
Under ideal operating conditions, AC units should run for about 15 to 20 minutes before shutting back off. In mild weather, the cycles might be a bit shorter than this. Keep in mind that running for less than 10 minutes isn't ideal because the air conditioner can't dehumidify properly.
Unlike furnaces, air conditioners are often outdoors and exposed to extreme temperatures throughout the year, which shortens their life expectancy. Modern air conditioners can last between 15-20 years, and older air conditioners last around 10-12 years.
It's normal for an AC to run for multiple hours per day. However, there is a difference between keeping your AC on throughout the day and the compressor running all day. Once your space reaches your desired temperature, your AC system, or more specifically, the compressor, should stop running automatically.
Cooling a house from 90 degrees to 72 degrees typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on various factors.
Allowing your air conditioner to rest is an excellent way to extend its life and ensure it operates efficiently throughout the years. Air conditioners, like homeowners, require rest in order to recover and perform optimally.
If your air conditioner isn't keeping up with the heat, your air filter may be to blame. A dirty air filter can obstruct the airflow path through the unit. Using a dirty air filter can also cause less energy efficiency and more costly utility bills.
How Often Do I Need to Change Out My Air Filter? Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.
First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.
While replacing your central air unit or upgrading your air conditioning systems might seem like a substantial investment upfront, it can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
How Long Does an AC Compressor Last? An AC compressor typically lasts between 7-18 years. The lifespan of an AC compressor is largely dependent on how well it is maintained and how often it's used.
Some of the basics include: turn your thermostat up a couple degrees and deal with 76 to 78 degree temperatures indoors for a few days. close off unused rooms. close doors and vents.
Air conditioners don't defy time; they follow a cycle that's affected by more than just a glance at the thermostat. Typically, it takes about an hour for an average-sized air conditioning unit in typical conditions to lower room temperature by one degree Fahrenheit.
Your air conditioner can end up as as overheated and overtaxed in the summer as you can. If your unit is working too hard, it may stop working as efficiently as it used to, or it may even ice over. Thankfully, it's not too hard to ease up some of the pressure on your unit.
Running the “auto” function of your air conditioner all day and night isn't the best idea for any home. There are a few reasons you don't want to run your AC system all the time: System stress: Your air conditioner unit needs time to take a break.
While you might be tempted to simply turn the AC off, it's actually better to adjust the temperature several degrees higher, by about 7-10 degrees. By installing a programmable thermostat and making this simple adjustment you can potentially save as much as 10% on your energy bill.
Key takeaways: Homeowners insurance covers HVAC systems when the damage is due to a covered peril or disaster. A standard homeowners insurance policy won't cover an HVAC unit if the damage is due to general wear and tear, owner neglect or old age.
Better pricing: Since there's less demand for HVAC system replacement in spring and fall, your HVAC contractor might even offer their own savings incentives.
Usually, it is a quick fix, but sometimes the failure can be caused by a much bigger problem. The most expensive part of an AC unit to replace and repair is the air compressor.