How Do Your Air Conditioner’s Needs Change as It Ages?
Posted on: 10 September 2021
If you ask several HVAC technicians how long an air conditioning system will last, you're likely to receive several different answers. The reality is that an air conditioner's lifespan will depend on numerous factors, including the original quality of the unit and how well you maintain it. Of course, all air conditioners will eventually reach a point where it makes more sense to replace instead of repair.
The gray area that exists in between a brand new system that's still under warranty and one that's well past its prime can be tricky to deal with, however. As your air conditioner ages out of its warranty, its services and repair needs will change. If you want to keep your system for as long as possible, it's critical to understand how these needs evolve with time.
1. What Happens to an Aging Air Conditioner?
Your air conditioner is a mechanical system, which means that it has multiple moving parts that can wear down with time. Some aspects of the system face exposure to the elements, as well. For example, your condenser unit must sit outside through the blazing heat of summer and the frigid cold of winter. Although the condenser is theoretically weatherproof, constant exposure can take its toll.
However, many early issues with air conditioner systems result from inadequate maintenance. Failing to change the filter often enough is one prevalent maintenance issue. Clogged filters stress the blower and can even cause your evaporator coils to freeze, ultimately overworking the compressor and putting more wear onto this critical component.
If you begin to experience issues with your system shortly after your warranty runs out, it's worthwhile to consider your maintenance habits. Routine filter changes and cleaning and inspecting your condenser unit can help prolong the life of your system. Failing to take these maintenance steps can mean more trouble, even with relatively young air conditioners.
2. What Should You Do if You Own an Older Air Conditioner?
Routine maintenance is a critical part of owning any air conditioning system, even one that's brand new, but these tasks become more important as the system ages. Your compressor, blower, and other moving parts of the system will wear down after many seasons of service, making them more susceptible to failure. By maintaining your system, you will avoid further accelerating this process.
Routine annual service calls are the best thing you can do for any air conditioner approaching or moving beyond midlife. Your technician will check the condition of your system during these calls and perform some simple tasks to extend its life. By completing this service every year, you can ensure your aging system lasts for many more years. Contact AC services to learn more.
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