In the hot, humid climate here on the Treasure Coast, an air conditioner can be your very best friend. It makes sense to wonder “how long should an air conditioner last?” No one wants to go without A/C here, it’s bad for your home, your electronics, your health, and your mood.

Your A/C leaves the tropical beauty outside, and cool, less humid air inside. But, how long it lasts on average is a rather large range with some sources citing as few as five years on one end, and as many as 17 on the other. The truth about the lifespan of your air conditioner is that how well you maintain it has a lot to do with how long it will last.

The Range: How Long Should Your Air Conditioner Last

When you ask how long your A/C will last, the answer is usually five to ten years – but how you care for it matters. Doing regular maintenance and properly installing your machine can heavily influence which end of that spectrum you end up on. Simply put: Take care if it, it will last longer.

Easier said than done, though, if you don’t know how to care for your air conditioner. The good news is that you can often contract with a professional to do your regular maintenance if you want that peace of mind. However, you can do most of it yourself.

Tips to Keep Your Air Conditioner Running Longer

Keeping your air conditioner well maintained isn’t rocket science. Many of the steps below can be worked into your normal cleaning routine, like vacuuming the filter when you are doing window sills.

  1. Want to save 5 – 15 percent of your A/C’s energy consumption? Clean the Filter.

Cleaning your air conditioner’s filter may slip your mind until you can’t feel cold air coming out. However, according to Energy.gov, cleaning it regularly is your best weapon to extend the life of your machine and lower the cost of energy.

  1. Coil Fins: Comb them out for better airflow

You know those metal fins on your machine that bend easily? If they are not straight, air has trouble flowing through the machine, making everything work harder. You can contact a local HVAC store to buy a specially designed comb to straighten them.

  1. Properly store your unit during the off season

Ok, we know, there’s not much “off season” for Stuart, Florida. However, if you aren’t using it, or stowing it for the “winter,” make sure that it’s properly covered.

  1. Make sure the drains are unobstructed

Condensation is a normal part of running your A/C, and that condensation drains out to keep the machine running well. Over time, obstructions can stop the drains from doing their job. Run a stiff wire or pipe cleaner through the drains to keep them at their best.

  1. Call in a professional annually to clean the coils and perform maintenance

If you are confident cleaning your air conditioner, go for it, but it’s best to have a professional do this one for you. If you are looking for a professional you can trust to help you, call One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating to set up an appointment. You can also check our Comfort Club maintenance plans here.