6 Factors That Affect Your HVAC System’s Longevity

Your home’s cooling and heating system is a significant investment, so it makes sense to try to get the most out of it. When you invest in a new HVAC unit, you want to know that you are purchasing a reliable system that will last you for many years. On average, HVAC systems can last between 10 years and 25 years. However, even with proper care and routine maintenance, there will come a time when your high-quality air conditioner, heat pump, furnace, boiler, or furnace will need replacement. Outlined below, you’ll find some common factors that affect an HVAC system’s longevity and ways to prolong its service life.

1. Quality of Installation

The initial installation of your HVAC equipment plays a significant role in the longevity of your unit. Installation errors can create system weaknesses that increase wear and tear on the components. The flaws can also cause the system to operate less efficiently. This is why professional HVAC installation from a licensed and qualified contractor is the best way to go.

Certified technicians have the know-how, tools, and skills to assemble your unit on-site. They’ll ensure good insulation and proper positioning of the ductwork and vents before installing the unit. To avoid common pitfalls, look for a company with years of experience installing residential and commercial HVAC units. Getting the right installation service for the make and model of your HVAC will cause fewer problems in the long run and ensure the unit lasts longer.

2. Run Time

Many people who reside in areas with extreme temperatures depend on their HVAC systems throughout the year. Therefore, it’s natural for the main components of their HVAC systems to wear out over time due to their frequent use. The more strain the HVAC equipment experiences, the shorter the lifespan will be.

3. Insulation

Your home’s insulation keeps conditioned air from the HVAC unit from escaping outdoors. It also prevents cold or hot air from penetrating inside your house. If your attic, floors, and walls above the vented crawl spaces do not have proper insulation, your HVAC equipment will have to work harder to maintain the desired indoor temperatures. Consequently, it will have a shortened lifespan because of the increased usage and wear and tear.

4. Sizing of the HVAC

When purchasing an HVAC unit, you need to get the right size to match the total square footage of your home, including all less obvious spaces in it. The equipment should not be smaller or larger than the size you need. Getting an undersized HVAC system forces your equipment to work harder and longer to attain the preferred indoor temperature. As a result, your system components will wear down faster, shortening the lifespan of your HVAC unit. On the other hand, an oversized unit can lead to uneven cooling and heating in your living space, causing cold and hot spots. It can also lead to short cycling, also causing your HVAC components to wear out faster.

5. Location

Another factor that affects the longevity of an HVAC system is the climate conditions of the region in which you live. If you reside in a dry region, debris, dirt, and dust may build up around the system’s filters and coils more quickly. Check your unit for buildup and change air filters regularly. Areas with high humidity levels can burden your HVAC’s dehumidification capacity and lead to moisture problems and damage.

Placement of the unit matters as well. If you’ve placed your outdoor unit near landscaping, clear the area around it to enhance air circulation. Keeping the area clean will prevent overheating of components and reduce any strain on the system.

6. HVAC Maintenance

HVAC maintenance plays a significant role in the efficiency and longevity of your unit. Lack of preventive maintenance can expedite deterioration and even shorten your unit’s lifespan. During annual tune-ups, an HVAC technician will thoroughly inspect your unit for operating problems, clean the components, replace filters, and alert you of anything that might cause issues in the future.

Contact the HVAC Experts Today

Your cooling and heating unit’s lifespan depends on the maintenance plan you invest in, your location, frequency of use, proper HVAC sizing, your home’s insulation, and quality of the installation. If you suspect your HVAC unit’s life expectancy is coming to an end, you need to prepare for a replacement. At All Temp Co., Inc Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical, we provide expert HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair services to both commercial clients and homeowners throughout Concord, NC and beyond. We also offer indoor air quality services, attic insulation, and duct sealing. Give us a call today!