Heating and cooling systems are an investment, so it’s understandable that many homeowners want to keep them around as long as possible. However, your heating and air conditioning systems do have an expiration date.
Eventually, you’ll need to replace your heating and cooling systems. And what better time than right before temperatures drop dramatically? Read on to find out the average lifespan of heaters and air conditioners, how to tell your unit is done for, and how you may be able to make your comfort system last longer.
Average Comfort System Life Expectancies
Here’s how long each of your systems may last, keeping in mind that life expectancies vary dramatically based on installation, location, usage, efficiency, and more.
- Central air conditioners can last 15-20 years, though many stick around for as little as 10 years.
- Heat pumps have a similar build to central air conditioners, but may not last as long since they are used for both heating and cooling. A typical life expectancy is 14-15 years.
- Gas furnaces tend to last 16-20 years.
- Boilers can last for over 20 years. The rest of a radiant heating system—like the piping underneath your floorboards—can last decades longer.
Signs Your System Needs Replacement
We recommend replacing your heating and cooling systems before they break down for good. In general, you may want to consider a replacement system in the following situations.
- You’ve been told that repairs will cost more than half the price of a new unit.
- Your system operates unsafely.
- You make several costly repairs each year, a sign that components are wearing away.
- Even with proper maintenance, an older system breaks down often and runs inefficiently.
How to Prolong Your System’s Lifespan
There are steps you can take to keep your heater and you air conditioner around for a little longer. Change air filters regularly, report problems to local technicians immediately, and call for maintenance visits every year.
Now is the right time to schedule maintenance for your heater, as temperatures start to drop. A technician will inspect the system for problems and provide a tune-up that may help it to last for longer and operate more efficiently.
Call Johansen & Anderson Inc for heating services in Lockport, IL today!