How Long Should Your AC System Last in Florida?

Here in North Florida, we have a pretty different type of climate compared to most other states. So, it’s normal to wonder what the lifespan of your AC unit is here, as it may not be typical of other states. We’ve composed a handy guide to help you answer this question, as well as things you can due to prolong the life of your AC unit.

What Limits the Lifespan of an AC Unit?

With high humidity, extreme heat in the summers, high salt concentration and sulfur deposited by storms, it’s no surprise that AC units have a shorter lifespan here. In fact, AC units last 5-7 years less, on average, in Florida compared to other states. The climate means your unit is running harder and longer than it may have been designed to do. Regular storms leave trace deposits that cause erosion and damage to AC unit components. In addition, not all AC units or components are created equally. So, the quality of parts and construction can have a huge impact on the longevity of your AC unit.

How Do I Get the Most Out of My AC Unit?

Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do that can extend the life of your unit from a typical eight years to up to twenty. These game changing possibilities include:

• Take care of your unit – There are many small maintenance tasks that can be completed by homeowners to take care of their AC unit. Tasks like replacing an air filter regularly can help your machine run more efficiently, which means it isn’t working as hard and is less prone to breakdowns. It doesn’t take an expert, either. You can purchase air filters at any hardware store and replace them yourself quite easily.
• Ensure high quality – Select your AC unit or any replacement parts carefully. Talk with your AC repair contractor to determine the different brands available and how they stack up in terms of reliability and warranty.
• Get regular, professional maintenance – Seasoned professionals can complete regular maintenance like seasonal tune-ups that keep things humming along. A trained eye can foresee problems that you may miss, so even if you’re doing some maintenance on your own, it’s important to have a professional check in every now and again.

If you want to get the most out of your AC unit, it’s an uphill battle. Fortunately, here at Ideal Conditions, we have the experience and training to help you along. Give us a call today at 904-379-8762 for all your air conditioning repair and maintenance needs!