Home maintenance can be a costly matter, especially if you do not keep track of the various components of your house, such as its plumbing, heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. You might be wondering, however, when do home HVAC systems typically call for a replacement? Do you have to wait until they start breaking down frequently before getting concerned about getting new equipment? Air conditioning experts in Shreveport and other areas have the following facts to share to their clients:
Average Life Span of HVAC Systems
Thanks to advancements in technology, the average life cycle of numerous products in the market (HVAC systems included) have been extended, but, ironically, such progress has also created a need for consumers to replace equipment more frequently in order to enjoy the benefits of more efficient and eco-friendly equipment. Generally, HVAC systems are now expected to last for an average of 20 years. Leading contractors from established companies, such as AccuTemp Cooling and Heating, state that there are several factors that can significantly affect the service life of HVAC systems.
Factors that Affect HVAC Life Cycles
The life of HVAC systems mainly depend on variables like proximity to corrosive contaminants, whether retrofits or major repairs have been made, how well the system has been maintained, location of the property (i.e. humid or dry environment), and its run-time hours per day. Based on the aforementioned factors, contractors state that a lifetime range for HVAC systems can fall anywhere between 10 to 30 years.
Moreover, take note that there are also differences when it comes to an HVAC systems specific components. This means that some parts of HVAC systems require more maintenance than others. For instance, furnaces can last up to 20 years, whereas air conditioning units that have outdoor parts and are exposed to weather extremes usually have shorter life expectancies--15 years to be exact. Gas furnaces that are properly installed and sized should ideally last 20 to 30 years.
Determining a System’s End of Service Life
If your system requires frequent heating and air conditioning repair, it may be time to consider having a new system installed. Contractors often advise homeowners to think about replacing their HVAC units if the system has been in operation for more than two-thirds of its expected life and requires repairs that exceed 25 percent of its full replacement cost. In the end, it’s still all about making the more practical decision.
Source:
HVAC System Life Cycles: How Long Should It Last?, ACHRNews.com
