The average lifespan of an air conditioner is about 15 years. But for a variety of different reasons, many air conditioners in the St. Louis area die out earlier than that. We here at Jerry Kelly Heating & Air Conditioning want to help you get the most out of the investment in your cooling system, which is why we put together these tips for increasing your air conditioner’s lifespan!
6 ways to increase the lifespan of your air conditioner
- Install a high-efficiency system. High-efficiency air conditioners typically come with features like variable speed air handlers and two-stage compressors. Along with saving you energy, features like these put less stress on your air conditioner, which results in less wear and tear and longer operating life. High-efficiency systems are also typically built better than lower-efficiency units.
- Work with a qualified contractor. A proper installation of your air conditioner is crucial to maximizing its lifespan. That’s why it’s so important to work with a qualified contractor like Jerry Kelly Heating & Air Conditioning who can not only help you pick the right kind of air conditioner but also install it the way it’s supposed to be done and service is it properly throughout its lifetime.
- Schedule annual maintenance. Annual maintenance is one of the best ways to increase the lifespan of your air conditioner. An annual tune-up will take care of any operating problems before they get worse and maximize the efficiency of your system so that it’s fully capable to take on every cooling season to the best of its abilities.
- Use energy-saving thermostat settings. Another way to ease the load on your air conditioner is to use energy-saving thermostat settings. This is especially true when you’re away from home (either for work or for a vacation) because there’s no sense in making your air conditioner work hard when you’re not there to enjoy the cool air.
- Change your air filter. Changing your air filter is one of your most important tasks as a homeowner. A clogged filter will overwork your air conditioner and can lead to overheating and breakdowns. The less attention you pay to your filters, the shorter amount of time you can expect your air conditioner to last.
- Fix airflow problems. several different things can cause air conditioner airflow problems: air leaks in your home, air leaks in your ducts, improper duct design, blocked air registers, and more. Airflow problems will force your air handler to work extra hard, which will lead to the same problems that a clogged filter can cause. By fixing any airflow problems in your home as soon as you find them, you will put less stress on your unit and extend its operating life.
If you have any questions about how to increase the lifespan of your air conditioner, or if you’d like a cooling system serviced or installed in your home, contact Jerry Kelly Heating & Air Conditioning, your St. Charles air conditioner service company. We service the St. Louis area, including towns like Dardenne Prairie, Des Peres, and Frontenac.
