Like everything else, your HVAC system has a lifespan. Typically, a good quality HVAC may last 10 years, but many last much longer — as much as 15 to 25 years. Often, that’s because the owner has been sure to get good preventative maintenance so that the HVAC lifespan is prolonged. Learn how maintenance can keep your system running right, far into the future.

Why Preventative Maintenance Is Important

Look for a contractor who is willing to discuss the checklist of tasks that will be performed during preventative maintenance, and ask about these:

• Tighten electrical connections, wires, relays and connectors.
• Test controls.
• Check fan motors and blades.
• Check and clean the condensate drain.
• Check pressure controls.
• Check evaporator coils, cleaning if necessary.
• Check refrigerant lines and refrigerant levels. If levels are low, there may be a leak.

In the fall, a furnace inspection should include a look at the heat exchanger, burners, ignition and pilot light.

Other Preventative Measures

Ductwork should also be examined for leaks and separated segments. Allowing air to leak from ductwork will make the system work harder than it should and lead to early breakdown.

Change the air filter regularly. A clean filter will ensure good airflow. Dirty filters make it harder for the system to condition the air, and also may inhibit the unit’s ability to dehumidify. Use a good quality air filter, which will also improve your home’s indoor air quality, while keeping the parts of your HVAC system clear of dirt.

If you have a good quality HVAC system that is sized properly and well maintained, it should last many years. However, as technology changes and as your system ages and needs more repairs, you may find you want to upgrade to a more efficient system, and one that doesn’t break down so often.

Another issue now with older air conditioners is the phasing out of R-22 refrigerant. It is getting rarer, and costing more, so you may need to upgrade in the next few years if your system starts leaking.

For more on your HVAC lifespan, contact Powers Heating and Air of Peachtree City.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 770-487-2040.