What Is the Lifespan of a Central Air Conditioning Unit?

Central air conditioners are one of the most important appliances in our homes. Even in Northern cities like Chicago, summers can get very hot and extremely humid. A well-functioning cooling system is essential, and the last thing you need to happen is have your central air go out in the middle of a 90 degree day in July. To prevent this from happening, it is advised to do regular maintenance, and to replace your unit when it is time. But that brings up the question-what is the lifespan of a central air conditioning unit?

As with many other things, the answer varies. There are HVAC units that last 30 years, and there are units that only last 5. Some of it is just luck, or maybe buying a central air system from a better quality manufacturer. Other factors are how well the unit is maintained and whether or not it is the right size for the house it's in.

A poorly maintained air conditioner will obviously fail much sooner than one that has regular servicing. Also, if the unit is too small for the amount of square feet it is trying to cool, it will work much harder and break down much sooner.

With all the aforementioned scenarios factored in, the average lifespan of a central air conditioning unit is around 15 years. The challenge for some homeowners is they may not know how long the current unit has been there, so here are some things to be on the lookout for that may be signs that it's time for a new HVAC unit:
1. Your air conditioner is at least 10 years old

With the average lifespan of a central air conditioning unit being around 15 years, there are likely to be warning signs when your unit is past 10 years old. Particularly if you haven't been in the home the entire 10 years and don't know how well the unit was maintained. Pay much closer attention to the condition of your AC unit if you know it's over 10 years old.
2. The AC is making loud and/or strange noises

If you are hearing loud noises you haven't heard before or don't recognize, it's time to call in a professional to look at the unit. You don't want to let these noises go on too long, because they are almost sure to be a sign of problems in the unit.
3. Strange smells are coming from the unit

Another clear sign of trouble is if you notice that the unit smells like there is some kind of electrical problem. This is another case where you need to get a repair man out right away before things get worse.

4. You are paying higher energy bills than you used to

This is a more subtle sign that your central air conditioning unit may be ready to fail, but if you notice significantly higher summer cooling bills than in years past, this probably means the air conditioner is no longer performing at maximum efficiency.

Why Buy New?

Some people believe that, while their old HVAC unit may be wearing out, they are better off keeping it until it totally breaks down, rather than buying a new one. However, there are some good reasons to consider buying a new air conditioning system, especially if you haven't done so for at least the last decade:

• Greater Energy Efficiency


• Peace of Mind on Hot Summer Days


• Significant Savings on Cooling Bills


• Possible Government Rebates on Qualified HVAC Units

With the energy cost savings and potential for rebates and incentives, a new cooling system can pay for itself fairly quickly. Speak with your local or Chicago HVAC contractor to discuss the lifespan of the central air conditioning unit your home.