Life Span of an Air Conditioner
Unfortunately, the old adage that nothing lasts forever is true, even when it comes to the best-made air conditioners. If you have an older home, your unit may be nearing or even at the end of its air conditioner lifespan. Here’s what you need to know about air conditioners and their life expectancy here in Chicago.
What Is the Expected Life Span of an AC?
Under the best circumstances, a well-made and well-maintained air conditioning system should last between 12 to 17 years. This life expectancy can vary according to the type of use the air conditioning system is subjected to. For example, an air conditioner that is used in a region with a shorter summer season, like Chicago, will typically last longer than one in an extremely hot region like the Southwest.
AC Replacement vs. AC Repair
An older AC system is likely to require progressively more extensive and expensive repairs as it continues to age. It will become less efficient each year, and most homeowners don’t realize this is happening until they have a ridiculously high electric bill. If your older system needs a repair, it could be a good time to consider an AC replacement rather than sinking money into a system that will eventually fail again.
Some signs that it might be time to replace your old AC system include:
- Electric bill keeps increasing
- AC cannot keep your entire home cool
- System continually short cycles
- Humidity level is consistently too high
- AC system is becoming noisier
- Your system needs a major repair
Another reason to replace is if you have a system that uses older technologies, including R22 refrigerant, which has been going through a phaseout over the past decade. As of 2022, R22 can no longer be imported into the United States either. So, it can become difficult and expensive if your older system develops a leak or needs a refrigerant recharge in the future.
With a new AC system, you can have the peace of mind that your system will be ready for the hot weather ahead. You also have the benefit of it being covered by a manufacturer’s warranty if anything should go wrong with it. And better yet, your new system will be much more energy-efficient.
How To Extend Your AC’s Life Span
There are some AC systems that last longer than the expected norm. But the most common factor that goes into determining the expected life span of an AC system is how well it has been maintained. Yearly tune-ups performed by a professional HVAC contractor are key to maintaining your air conditioner and its components. Professional HVAC maintenance is also a requirement for keeping your manufacturer’s warranty valid.
Chicago AC Replacement and Maintenance for Older Homes
Experience is needed when replacing an air conditioning system in an older home. American Vintage Home specializes in replacing and maintaining cooling and heating systems for older homes throughout Chicago and the North Shore area.
We are the older home experts and are dedicated to rejuvenating your heating, cooling, and plumbing systems while preserving your home’s classic beauty. We specialize in Unico high velocity systems and SpacePak® air conditioning systems for homes equipped with radiator heat.
You can depend on American Vintage Home for all your home’s HVAC needs, including:
- 24/7 emergency service
- AC installations, repair & maintenance
- Heating installations, repair & maintenance
Don’t take chances with replacing your vintage home’s air conditioning system. In the Chicago North Shore area, no one services older homes better than American Vintage Home. Call us at (847) 999-4595 or schedule your consultation online.
