How long should an air conditioner last?

Author: Delfina Wyman  |  Last update: Thursday, September 4, 2025

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.

How often should AC be replaced?

When was your air conditioning system installed? The Department of Energy recommends homeowners replace their HVAC systems every 10 to 15 years. Modern air conditioners are durable, but their major components will begin to deteriorate after around ten years depending on how often you use and maintain them.

Why is my AC running but not cooling?

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.

Which AC brand lasts the longest?

Which HVAC Brands Last the Longest?
  • Mitsubishi Electric: Superior Efficiency and Durability. ...
  • Goodman Air Conditioning and Heating: Affordable and Long-Lasting. ...
  • Rheem: Reliable Performance for Decades. ...
  • Honeywell: Smart Home Integration and Durability. ...
  • Lennox: High-End Performance for the Long Haul.

How do you know when it's time to replace your AC?

It may be time to call a professional contractor to help you make a change if:
  • Your heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old. ...
  • Your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old. ...
  • Your equipment needs frequent repairs and your energy bills are going up. ...
  • Some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold.

How Long Should My Air Conditioning System Last?

How do you tell if your air conditioner is going out?

To help keep you and your family cool and comfortable, check out these 10 signs that your air conditioner is breaking down:
  1. AC Blows More Hot Air Than a Politician. ...
  2. Funny Smells Coming From Air Conditioner. ...
  3. Weakening Air Flow. ...
  4. Higher Energy Bill. ...
  5. Noisy AC Unit. ...
  6. Frequent Cycling. ...
  7. Humidity. ...
  8. Repeatedly Calling for Repairs.

How much does an air conditioner cost for a 2000 sq ft home?

Average New AC Unit Costs

The average cost of installing a new central air conditioner in 2024, including equipment and labor costs, is $5,750 for a 3-ton unit in a 2,000-square-foot home. On average, a new AC unit cost will fall between $3,300 and $7,800.

What is the most reliable AC brand?

Top 10 AC Brands
  • Lennox.
  • American Standard.
  • Goodman.
  • Amana.
  • HEIL.
  • Rheem.
  • York.
  • Ruud.

What is the normal lifespan of an air conditioner?

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.

Should I turn off the AC unit if it's not cooling?

Turning off your AC when it's not cooling is more than a precaution; it's a necessary first step in troubleshooting and protecting your system from further damage. By understanding when to perform simple checks and when to call in the experts, you ensure your air conditioner remains a reliable refuge from the heat.

How much does a compressor cost for an air conditioner?

On average, AC compressor costs range from $800 to $2,300, with most folks paying $1,200 for a new one. However, your price will vary depending on factors like the size and brand of your compressor. Before you schedule your replacement, read on to learn about all AC compressor cost factors.

What is the first thing to check when the AC stops working?

Check these issues when the unit won't kick on: Check the thermostat and adjust the settings if it isn't set to Cool and an appropriate temperature setting to call for cooling. Examine the house circuit breakers for the AC unit and reset any tripped breakers. Check the air filter and replace the filter if it's dirty.

Is it worth fixing a 20 year old air conditioner?

Air conditioner is over 15 years old

The typical lifespan of an air conditioner is around 15 years, at which time it must be changed. Some air conditioners may work well beyond their designed lifespan, but they become less efficient with time.

Is it OK for your AC to run all day?

The constant running will reduce pressure in the cooling coil until it freezes over, which is dangerous as it can cause liquid refrigerant to flood back to the compressor and damage it (the compressor is a very expensive part).

What is the number 1 AC?

Which are the top AC brands in India? The top AC brands in India include LG, Samsung, Daikin, Voltas, Blue Star, Panasonic, and Lloyd.

How much does it cost to install an AC system in a house?

The cost of replacement for an air conditioner in a residential home can range between $5,500-$19,000. This includes labor and permit fees. This range also covers a variety of system sizes and levels of sophistication, including variable-speed AC systems.

What is the most dependable AC unit?

When you're looking for a dependable air conditioning brand, Trane stands out with its robust build quality and advanced engineering. Trane units are well-known for their durability, often outperforming competitors in longevity.

What time of year is the cheapest to replace HVAC?

During spring and fall, most people aren't running their HVAC systems as often which, in turn, means HVAC companies are not as busy and are not selling as many new units. This drop in demand enables them to offer deals on their services and equipment.

Does homeowners insurance cover HVAC?

Homeowners insurance covers HVAC systems when the damage is a result of a covered disaster or peril, including high winds, fallen trees, theft, hail or even a fire. So if lightning strikes your unit and damages its electrical components, your homeowners insurance policy would probably cover it.

How do you tell if your air conditioner needs to be replaced?

10 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Repair or Replacement
  1. Air Conditioning System is Blowing Warm Air. ...
  2. AC Thermostat is Not Working. ...
  3. Little Air Blows Out of Vents. ...
  4. Loud Noise Inside of the AC Unit. ...
  5. Strange Odors When AC Turned On. ...
  6. Not Enough Humidity Removed By the AC. ...
  7. Problems with the AC Are Occurring More Often.

Can you leave air conditioner running?

As long as your central air conditioning system is keeping you comfortable and you don't notice any significant increases in your energy bills from this time last year, you likely can continue running your home's central air conditioner without worry.

Why is AC not blowing cold air?

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.

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