Your HVAC system is the silent savior constantly protecting you from unclean air, functioning at all times. The only time you will realize its importance is when it breaks down completely, and by that time, it might be too late. How long can you go without maintenance, and what is the lifespan of your HVAC system? These are some of the questions we will be addressing here while also giving you some pointers on how you can extend its lifespan through regular maintenance.
Let’s Begin!
Since HVAC systems are operating 24/7, throughout the year, you could expect their lifespan to be affected by quite a lot of factors, including the system’s type, quality of installation, usage, and, most importantly, routine maintenance.Â
Here are the average lifespans of various HVAC components.
Air conditioners -10-15 years.
Furnaces - 15-20 years.
Heat pumps - 10-15 years.
Boilers - 15-30 years.
It's worth noting that these are average estimates. With routine maintenance and care, your HVAC system could last much longer than these estimates.
It is a common notion that if you take good care of something, it is bound to last much longer, and in pristine condition. This also applies to your HVAC system, which requires routine maintenance and cleaning periodically. Here are a few reasons to conduct maintenance on your HVAC system that will directly prolong its lifespan.
An efficient HVAC system is clean. Parts of your system can become clogged with dust and dirt, making it work harder to maintain desired temperatures. Its lifespan may be shortened by this added strain. Your HVAC system will last longer if it is cleaned frequently, which also prevents wear and tear.
By regularly cleaning your HVAC system, you can inspect it and identify any potential issues early. Whether they are brought on by a leak, a faulty component, or just an excessive buildup of dust, identifying these issues early can help you avoid more severe (and expensive) damage in the future.
Dirty coils, clogged filters, or blocked ducts may cause component failures. The lifespan of your system is increased, and unexpected breakdowns are avoided with routine cleaning of these vital components.
Armed with the knowledge of the importance of HVAC cleaning and maintenance, you should be all set up to do the right thing and schedule periodic maintenance. To help you further, here are a few tips and tricks that you can do to help the cause directly.
1. Change Filters Regularly: Dust, pollen, and other airborne particles are captured by filters as the HVAC system trudges along its perpetual operations. They are notorious for clogging up over time and restricting airflow. Depending on usage, filters should be changed every one to three months to keep your system operating efficiently and extend its life.
2. Clean the Coils: Your HVAC system has heating coils allowing heat transfer. Due to its constant functioning, the coils are prone to dust and dirt accumulation, which, in the long run, can cause the coils to function ineffectively and in rare cases, may lead to hazardous fires. Cleaning the coils periodically can reduce risks, prolong the life of your HVAC system, and decrease energy consumption substantially.
3. Keep Outdoor Units Clear: Most HVAC systems come with outdoor units that are usually prone to countless dangers. The outdoor elements, such as leaves, branches, and dust, could clog up airways and reduce functionality drastically. Keep your HVAC outdoor units clean, and watch your HVAC system work perfectly for years on end.
DIY maintenance is something all of us wish to be good at, however, there are countless limits to our cleaning prowess. DIY enthusiasts may not be able to see the full extent of the issue, and might miss out on vital signs that professionals surely will not. As much as we’d love to have DIY enthusiasts become independent of their HVAC cleaning, we highly recommend having regular professional maintenance as a top priority. Not only can they point out the deepest issues, but they can also conduct cleaning in the safest way possible and prevent damages and injuries.
It is crucial to keep your HVAC system clean and in working order. A properly maintained HVAC system can last longer than the industry standard, saving you money and ensuring your comfort for many years. Regular HVAC cleaning, whether you do it yourself or hire professionals, is a smart investment in the long-term efficiency and health of your system. So get your hands dirty (or call an HVAC technician) and treat your HVAC system right!
