Unlike ovens, air conditioners are often outdoors and exposed to extreme temperatures all year round, shortening their lifespan. Modern air conditioners can last 15 to 20 years, and older units last 10 to 12 years according to the U. S. Department of Energy.
In the US, air conditioning units have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years, although it is not uncommon for a well-manufactured and maintained unit to exceed this. Central air conditioners typically have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years, although this can vary depending on a variety of factors. With proper maintenance, an AC system can last up to 10 years longer than its expected lifespan. To ensure your air conditioner lasts as long as possible, it's important to keep up with regular maintenance and cleaning. The amount of time an air conditioner is exposed to the elements and the severity of the conditions can affect its life expectancy. If your system seems to be nearing the end of its life, it may be more beneficial to schedule a replacement than a repair.
Professional HVAC maintenance should be part of your annual HVAC care list. By keeping a close eye on the performance and operation of your unit, you can anticipate when it will be nearing the end of its life and prepare to replace the air conditioner. If a technician recommends that you replace your air conditioning system with a newer model, it might be worth getting a second opinion.
