How Many Years Do Air Conditioning Units Last?

Personal Maintenance

• Many homeowners do not realize that their air conditioner requires maintenance that they can perform themselves on a regular basis. This includes removing and cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly. The air filter is generally easy to access and should be replaced or cleaned every few months if the air conditioner is in regular use. This can increase the overall life expectancy and performance of the unit. Cleaning air conditioner filters can be done with a vacuum brush attachment or by washing with soapy water and rinsing well. Note that the filter must be completely dry before it can be placed back into the air conditioner.

Professional Maintenance

• Homeowners should have a professional service technician inspect and perform any necessary maintenance on their air conditioner at least once a year, preferably at the start of the season when the air conditioner will be in use. A professional service technician can identify potential problems or issues and repair broken or damaged elements that may otherwise shorten the life expectancy of the unit if not addressed.

Neglect

• Neglecting the air conditioner and obvious problems, like frozen condenser coils, leaks, covering the air conditioner vents, grilles or return air grilles with objects that prevent proper air flow can all cause damage to the air conditioner if not resolved properly. If problems are constantly ignored or allowed to continue for a long period of time before being addressed, the overall life expectancy of the air conditioner will shorten as a result.