What's the Best Way to Extend the Life of My Air Conditioner?

Modern air conditioning units are designed to last anywhere between 15 to 20 years, but only if homeowners commit to proper maintenance. Below, we’ve put together five easy ways to help you extend your air conditioning unit’s functional lifespan.

#1 Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats, or smart thermostats, are game-changing. The idea behind them is that you can set your air conditioning unit to certain temperatures at specific times during the day. For instance, you could turn the temperature down during the day, and turn it up during the night. Most smart thermostats can even be controlled through your smartphone.

By installing a programmable thermostat, your air conditioning unit won’t have to run at maximum power 24/7. Plus, you can enjoy major savings on your utility bill each month.

#2 Regularly Change the Air Filter

Changing the air filter regularly promotes clean indoor air. As your air conditioning unit ages, its filter will accumulate dirt, dust, and other debris that can make the air smell musky. Frequently changing the filter prevents the unit from getting clogged. It will also improve the unit’s overall efficiency so that you won’t need to spend money on repairs and replacements.

#3 Clean the Air Ducts

If you often feel like your air conditioning unit isn’t cooling your entire home, the problem may be with the air ducts. Clogged air ducts restrict air from flowing throughout the home. Over time, dirt and debris will build up inside of them, making it impossible for cold air to pass through. Make it a habit to clean the air ducts once a year so that your unit doesn’t have to work twice as hard to keep the room cool.

#4 Check the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit of your AC, otherwise known as the condenser, is what powers the entire unit. The condenser is typically found on the exterior side of the home. Since it is exposed to the elements, there’s a greater chance that dirt, branches, leaves, and other debris can become lodged inside the unit. The debris can lead to all sorts of damage such as leakage and fan breakage. Make sure to inspect the unit regularly -- especially after a storm.

#5 Regular Maintenance

The best way to help your air conditioning unit last longer is through regular maintenance. Air conditioners aren’t high-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean that they require zero maintenance. Have a professional HVAC technician do your regular tune-ups. Ultimately, this can save you money in the long run, as the technicians can spot minor problems before they turn into major issues.

Conclusion

All of the tips above don’t require you to spend thousands of dollars. In fact, most of them can be done from home, or rather inexpensively! By following the practices above, you can extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit. As a result, you can enjoy years of optimum performance without having to shell out cash on a new air conditioning unit.