Understanding the Lifespan of Your HVAC System

How long has your HVAC system been running? Was it there when you first moved into your home, or was it replaced more recently? Knowing how old your HVAC unit is can be valuable information to have as it makes it easier to estimate when you will need to start thinking about a new HVAC installation in Knoxville. This allows you to start planning for the expense of a new unit. Let’s take a closer look at the expected lifespan for the average HVAC unit and what you can do to make it last as long as possible before needing a new HVAC installation in Knoxville.

The Average Lifespan For HVAC

There are a number of factors that will impact the lifespan of your HVAC unit, but in general terms, an HVAC unit can be expected to last for 10 to 15 years before you will need to start thinking about a new HVAC installation in Knoxville. However, this is only a rough estimate, and it may change based on a number of key factors, including the type of HVAC unit, how much it is used, and, of course, your maintenance habits. A well-maintained HVAC unit is going to last far longer than one that has been neglected for the past decade.

Some of the important maintenance tasks that can help to increase the lifespan of your unit, delaying the need for HVAC installation in Knoxville, include the following:

• Changing/Cleaning The Filter - It is vital that you regularly clean or replace the air filter on your HVAC unit. The filter is designed to trap dirt, dust, and other contaminants, making the indoor air quality put out by your HVAC system much better. However, over time, the filter gets clogged and hampers airflow, meaning your unit is not going to work as efficiently. Not only can this have a negative impact on indoor air quality, it is also going to increase your energy costs.
• Clean The Condensor Coils - Another important cleaning task is keeping the condenser coils clean and free from debris. Just 1 millimeter of dirt on the coil can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC unit by as much as 20%, so it is crucial that it is kept clean as part of your regular maintenance! A less efficient HVAC unit needs to work harder, putting additional strain on the components and shortening the lifespan of the unit.
• Schedule Regular Service Calls - One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting until their HVAC breaks down to arrange a service call. It is far better to schedule regular maintenance maintenance visits, preferably quarterly or biannually, but at least once per year at a minimum. This will allow a qualified technician to tune up your HVAC and make sure everything is in good working order. It also means that if there are signs of developing problems, they can be repaired before they get serious, resulting in less expensive repairs and fewer breakdowns.

How Does Useage Impact HVAC Lifespan

In addition to how well your HVAC is maintained, another thing that can significantly impact the longevity of your HVAC unit is how much it is used. Constant operation, especially in extremely hot or cold temperatures, will lead to more wear and tear on the system. As a result, you will need HVAC installation in Knoxville sooner rather than later. Some of the things you can do to mitigate this high usage include the following:

• Adjust Your Thermostat - Adjusting your thermostat slightly when you are not home can lessen the strain on your HVAC unit. For example, in the height of summer you should set the temperature a few degrees higher while you are out of the house so that the HVAC isn’t working overtime to cool an empty home!
• Utilize Alternative Cooling Methods - Another way to reduce the strain on your HVAC in the summer months is to make use of alternative methods of keeping cool. For example, you can make use of fans and keep your blinds closed to make the house cooler. Similarly, in Winter, you can lessen the load by using blankets and extra layers to stay cozy!

Extending Your HVAC’s Lifespan

If you want to be able to put off needing an HVAC installation in Knoxville for a few years, you can play your part in extending the lifespan of your HVAC unit. Simply follow the tips we have mentioned above and keep on top of a regular maintenance schedule and your HVAC should be able to keep running for a few more years before you have to think about a new HVAC installation in Knoxville.

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Gent Heating and Cooling provide heating and air conditioning for residential and commercial clients in Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding East Tennessee area. Over 20 Years experience. Customer Service is Our Top Priority. We strive to be on time, provide accurate estimates, and have most replacement products on our service vehicles.

Call 865-213-3818 or email office@genthvac.com

www.gentheatandcool.com