How Long Will An AC Last In Portland?

Whether you’re shopping for a new AC or you’ve noticed yours needs repairs more frequently, you might be wondering exactly how long you can anticipate it lasting.

According to energy.gov, most central air conditioners last 15 to 20 years, while most ductless mini-split systems can last 20 years or longer.

The three most important factors for determining how long your system will last are:

• Regular professional AC maintenance
• Proper AC installation
• The frequency of air filter changes

Let’s take a closer look at these & how they affect the overall lifespan of your AC.

The experts at Four Seasons can help. With over 40 years of serving the local community, our NATE-certified technicians are reliable, knowledgeable, and fully committed to providing customers with quality service. Extend the life of your unit with our professional AC maintenance and AC replacement services. Call 503-538-1950 today!

Regular AC maintenance is one of the most important factors to ensure your AC runs safely and smoothly. It will also extend its life as long as possible.

Usually called an AC tune-up, this regular maintenance service is a thorough safety and performance inspection performed by an HVAC technician. According to energystar.gov, a tune-up normally includes preventative maintenance like:

• Tightening all electrical connections
• Checking the controls of the system
• Checking thermostat settings
• Checking the refrigerant level
• Cleaning and adjusting blower components
• Cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils
• Inspecting the condensate drain
• Lubricating all moving parts

HVAC contractors recommend getting an AC tune-up once a year, preferably in the spring, to prepare the system for the summer. ACs tend to break down during hot months when they’re working the hardest, so it’s best to get that tune-up done before the weather heats up.

Not to mention, regular AC tune-ups keep your manufacturer’s warranty valid and prevent minor issues from becoming larger, more expensive repairs down the line.

An incorrectly installed AC can reduce your system’s lifespan.

For example, if the technician does not ensure the amount of refrigerant in the system matches the manufacturer’s specifications, the performance and efficiency of your AC will suffer. Or, say, the technician doesn't check that certain AC components are aligned. The improper installation of parts can cause unnecessary wear and tear and expensive repairs in the future. Overall, these issues will reduce the efficiency and lifespan of your system.

Additionally, a contractor may install an AC that is too large or too small for your home, leading to potential performance issues and a shorter AC lifespan.

• If your AC is too small for your house, it will constantly run, overworking itself to cool your home. Even then, it’s unlikely to cool very well, and it won’t last as long as it should due to increased wear and tear on the system.

• On the other hand, an oversized AC will quickly meet your home’s cooling needs and then shut off—repeatedly. This is known as “short cycling,” and it overworks your AC system, which can decrease its lifespan.

It’s best to hire a licensed and insured contractor to avoid installation problems. They will size your AC system properly and should have at least 10 years of established history in your area. When you hire a pro who knows what they’re doing, you’re much more likely to enjoy a well-running and efficient AC for years to come.

A dirty and clogged filter restricts airflow to the system, forcing the AC to work harder than usual.

When your AC works too hard for too long, the fan motor might burn out, or the system may overheat. Either issue could cause a severe breakdown. With a dirty air filter, your AC is less efficient and increases its energy consumption by as much as 15%. It’s also likely to short cycle, producing uneven temperatures throughout your home, which means your home won’t be as comfortable during hot summer months.

By regularly changing your filter, you’ll increase the lifespan of your AC by improving its efficiency, reducing unnecessary wear and tear, and preventing dust and debris buildup on the internal components.

At Four Seasons, our biggest priority is providing our customers with the best quality service possible. Unlike some other HVAC companies, we never cut corners. With our professional AC maintenance and AC replacement services, we can help ensure that your AC lasts as long as possible and functions efficiently to save you money. Call us at 503-538-1950 today or schedule your service online!