Keep Your AC Unit Running Smoothly in the Arizona Heat — Discover Its Lifespan

In Phoenix, you need a functioning AC Unit, it’s crucial to prepare your HVAC system for the upcoming heat waves. It can be challenging to gauge how many more years your air conditioning unit has left before it needs replacing. Several indicators can help you figure out when it might be time for a new unit. Don’t forget that changing your air filters is equally as important as changing your car’s oil.

We will discuss how long air conditioners usually last in Arizona. It’s helpful to know tips for extending their lifespan, and how Arizona Valley Heating & Cooling can thoroughly maintain your cooling system.

AC Unit Lifespan

A typical air conditioning system can last around 10 to 15 years before it needs replacing. However, various factors can affect how long an air conditioner lasts, such as:

• Usage Frequency: If an HVAC system operates continuously, it will wear out more quickly and require replacement sooner.
• Preventative Maintenance: Regular maintenance and tune-ups can address small issues and ensure the system operates efficiently for a longer time.
• Brand: Cheaper brands or models might not be as durable as those of higher quality.

Eventually, every air conditioner system will require a replacement, but by properly maintaining your system, you can significantly prolong its lifespan.

Problems That Can Rapidly Deteriorate an Air Conditioner

Various problems can put a lot of pressure on your air conditioning unit, resulting in early wear and decreased efficiency. By recognizing these typical issues, you can tackle them effectively and help extend the life of your cooling system.

• System Size: A key reason why an air conditioning unit can become overworked is due to incorrect sizing at the time of installation. An undersized HVAC system struggles to cool the given area effectively, resulting in higher energy consumption and increased strain on its components.

Large air conditioners can often turn on and off too frequently, leading to excessive wear and tear.

• Leaking Ductwork: Ductwork with leaks allows cooled air to escape before it reaches its destination. This makes the air conditioner work overtime to make up for the lost cool air, which reduces its efficiency overall.
• Poor insulation: Homes with poor insulation allow excess heat to enter and make your air conditioning unit work harder to keep things cool. But homes with good insulation keep the cool air inside, reducing the burden on your AC unit.
• Refrigerant leaks: If there’s a refrigerant leak in the air conditioning system, the HVAC unit must work harder to maintain the right temperature. Keep an eye out for any signs of a refrigerant leak, such as a drop in cooling efficiency or hissing noises coming from the unit.
• Dirty or clogged filters: The air conditioning unit’s air filters collect dust and debris as time passes, impeding airflow. When a filter gets clogged, the system works harder to circulate air, resulting in increased energy usage.

Tips for Prolonging the Lifespan of Your AC Unit

In Phoenix’s extreme heat and dusty environment, keeping your air conditioning unit in top condition can be a challenge. However, you can take several steps to ensure the system operates efficiently and potentially extend its lifespan. 

• Cleaning Regularly: Keep the space around the outdoor unit tidy and free from clutter to maintain good airflow and reduce stress on the HVAC system.
• Cleaned Coils: Regularly keeping the coils clean helps ensure their best cooling performance, preventing a build-up of dust and dirt that can lower efficiency.
• Changing Air Filters: Replacing the air filters every few months improves airflow and helps the air conditioning unit operate efficiently without being overworked.
• Programmable thermostat: Use a programmable thermostat to effectively manage your home’s temperature. Reduce the workload on your heating and cooling system.
• Professional maintenance: Arrange for routine professional maintenance to identify and resolve issues before they escalate into significant problems.

Taking proper care can help you save both money and stress in the long run.

Sign up for a Maintenance Plan

You can make one of the smartest choices for your air conditioner by enrolling in a maintenance program.

This way, you ensure thorough upkeep of your system and help identify and fix small issues before they escalate into bigger problems. Arizona Valley Heating & Cooling offers an HVAC maintenance plan tailored specifically to Arizona homes and their distinct requirements.

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