Replacing a furnace or air conditioner is one of the more costly and complicated home maintenance tasks, so it’s common for homeowners to wonder if there are any ways to extend the lifespan of their HVAC system. Luckily, there are some easy steps you can take to get the most out of your HVAC system and keep it running efficiently for as long as possible.
How long do HVAC systems last?
The lifespan of an HVAC system varies by type and model as well as usage conditions, size of the space, and climate. However, air conditioners can usually be expected to last 12–15 years and furnaces 20 years before needing to be replaced.
As heating and cooling systems age, their efficiency goes down. If it’s been over a decade since your system was installed and you’re experiencing weaker output or seeing increasing utility costs, it may be a sign that you’ll need a replacement soon. Make a plan for purchasing and installing a new air conditioner or furnace so that you can minimize the time between systems.
How can I extend my HVAC’s lifespan?
- Schedule regular maintenance. It’s recommended that your heating and cooling systems each receive maintenance once per year. Ideally, an HVAC technician should check your heating in the fall and your air conditioning in the spring. This way, you’ll be able to fix any issues and have your systems running at optimal efficiency before their high-use seasons. During these maintenance checks, the technician will clean the systems and identify problems that should be addressed before they affect the performance of your HVAC system.
- Use a smart thermostat. Technology has come a long way in the past decade, and it’s now possible to have your own in-home smart thermostat that does the hard work of monitoring your HVAC system for you. These thermostats can be programmed from your smartphone or tablet and can even be set up to automatically adjust your heating or cooling system, saving you energy and money and extending the lifespan of your air conditioner or furnace.
- Change the filter frequently. Your HVAC technician can check your filters when performing maintenance, but it’s a good idea to regularly examine them yourself and replace them if you see they’re too dirty. Be sure to regularly check your condenser (the part of your air conditioner that sits outside your home) for any damage, especially after major storms, and enlist a professional technician if repairs are needed.
- Put your fan on “auto.” Most HVAC systems have fans that can run on “Auto” or “On.” It’s a good idea to keep it on the “Auto” setting, which runs the fan only when your home actively needs heating or cooling. Keeping the fan running all the time causes your system to work harder than necessary, upping your energy usage and wearing out your HVAC system prematurely.
- Give your HVAC system a break once in a while. Be kind to your HVAC system by opening windows and turning on a ceiling fan when it’s warm outside, or consider using a fireplace or wearing a jacket during the winter. Changing the thermostat just a few degrees can go a long way toward not overloading your HVAC system. Ensuring your home has adequate insulation also lessens the amount of effort the system needs to exert to keep your home at an optimal temperature.
Southern Utah HVAC Services
Follow these simple steps to make your HVAC systems last longer and work better. If you need to repair or replace your HVAC system, sooner is better than later. Work with a dependable HVAC company, like Snow Canyon HVAC, to get the service you need.
Running your AC on a consistent schedule can help lower the costs that random AC usage throughout the day may cause. Developing habits like turning off the AC when you leave the house will minimize energy waste in spaces that don’t need cooling. Programmable thermostats are a great option to help you automate a more efficient AC schedule.
Snow Canyon HVAC has provided installation, repair, and maintenance of heating and cooling systems to St. George, Utah, and the surrounding communities since 1998. We pride ourselves on providing our customers with high-quality work, honest prices, and excellent customer service. Contact us to learn more or request a free estimate.
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