How Long AC Units Last in Canada?
The power to manage your home’s temperature contributes significantly to your quality of life. In a nation like Canada, where the summer months are rather short, individuals spend over $12 billion per year on services provided by HVAC contractors on air conditioning systems.
Apart from that, due to the increase in temperature, around 2 billion AC units are used across the globe. But like all mechanical systems, air conditioners, too, come with a limited lifespan.
Knowing how long these appliances last and what you should do to maintain their optimal performance is highly essential. It can help you avoid unwanted repairs/replacements of the AC unit and its components.
The Lifespan of Air Conditioners in Canada
So, how long do AC units last in Canada? Well, in most situations, AC units have a lifespan of 10 years. At times, it can be over 15 years. The only difference here is how long an AC unit can last and how long the unit will last after getting proper treatment.
The unit might have to undergo servicing and repairs during those 10 to 15 years. Just like all mechanical systems or appliances, the components that wear out over time might need to be replaced. But that doesn’t mean it needs some major fixes.
AC Units in Canada: Factors That Affect Their Longevity
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By now, you know how long AC units last in Canada. However, it would be best if you also stay well aware of certain factors that have a massive impact on their lifespan.
Factor 1: Overusing the AC Unit
Using the system way too much can put a lot of pressure on it and might shorten its longevity. Constant operations with no breaks or setting up the thermostat at a low level can increase the wear and tear on the unit. It would be best if you let the unit get proper rest and utilize it judiciously to prevent unnecessary strain.
Factor 2: Lack of Servicing
The best way to know how long AC units last in Canada is by checking how much servicing they receive during their lifespan. Regular servicing is vital for extending your cooling system’s longevity. Some of the maintenance tasks that you must do are:
- Replacing and cleaning the filters
- Cleaning the condenser coils
- Checking the Freon levels
- Inspecting the AC compressor
- Removing blockage from the drain pipes and pans
- Examining the thermostat
Not conducting routine servicing can lead to premature wear and reduce the efficiency of your cooling system. You should contact an HVAC technician who will conduct the maintenance work. That way, you can identify all the issues and make sure it performs perfectly.
Factor 3: Incorrect Size
Another factor that you must consider is the AC’s sizing. Choosing a cooling system of the correct size will increase its lifespan and efficiency. If the AC is pretty small for your home, it will be difficult for it to maintain and reach the correct temperature. This can wear out the system and also put too much pressure on it.
Similarly, an oversized air conditioner might cycle on and off more frequently, which will lead to high energy consumption and unwanted wear. Before you install an AC unit, you must discuss it with a professional AC technician.
They can provide you with the correct AC size which is required to cool your home. Getting an AC unit of the right size will also extend the lifespan of the system.
Factor 4: An Unsafe AC Unit
The external unit of an AC is exposed to numerous elements. These elements can have a massive effect on the system’s longevity if it’s not protected. Climate conditions, such as snow, dust storms, and heavy rainfall, can harm the outdoor system if it’s not kept secure.
Besides that, exposure to rubbish leaves, twigs, and dirt can lessen the efficiency, block the airflow and jam the condenser coils. You must make sure that the outdoor unit is well-protected with enclosures or covers.
It’s also vital to keep the space near the outdoor system clear. This will let you lengthen the lifespan of your cooling system.
How Can the Longevity of the AC Unit be Expanded?
Although it’s essential to remain well-informed about how long AC units last in Canada, you must also comprehend how to prolong their lifespan. So, how to get that done? Let’s find out!
Utilize the Auto Setting
Many individuals don’t take the time to learn about the various settings of AC units and why they’re important. When you switch on the AC fan, it will keep on running constantly. On certain occasions, you can even choose whether or not to run the AC fan slower or faster.
However, the AC fan doesn’t have to run continuously. This clearly means that you don’t have to set the fan to “ON” mode. Instead of that, you can extend your unit’s lifespan by setting the AC fan to “AUTO” mode.
Auto settings will enable the fan to turn off and on by itself based on your house’s cooling needs. It will also prevent the cooling system from conducting additional work and lengthen its longevity.
Cleaning the Air Ducts
You should regularly clean the air ducts to increase the efficiency of the AC unit. It will also keep the unit in excellent condition. Air conditioners use the “air ducts” to transport cool air throughout the house.
The air also picks up dust and pet dust, which gets stuck inside the unit. If the area from which the air travels through is unclean, it will lead to poor indoor air quality.
Purchase a Smart Thermostat
Obtaining a smart thermostat for your AC unit will be highly beneficial. The device will prevent the AC unit from cooling all the rooms unnecessarily. Investing in a smart thermostat means making sure the system does not work unless it’s required. This can prolong the system’s lifespan and also reduce the chances of costly repairs.
Change the Air Filters
Not cleaning a dirty and old air filter will have an adverse effect on the air quality. This can also lead to costly replacement or repair work. So, it would be best if you change the air filters to avoid such issues. Changing the filters will not just prolong the longevity of the cooling system. But it will also keep your family and you safe from all the contaminants and dust.
Wrapping Up
When you know how long AC units last in Canada, it will become easier to find a cooling system that will last for a longer period. But constantly using the system can reduce its lifespan. A great way you can extend its longevity is by replacing its components and conducting regular servicing.
Such services are offered by experts at Smile HVAC, having the knowledge and understanding of AC units, we can offer all kinds of AC-related services to keep it in good condition and extend its longevity.
We also provide our clients with guidance on how they can maintain their AC systems so that they operate for a prolonged period. To get in touch with us, please check the contact information below:
Website: https://smilehvac.ca/
Phone: (+1) 437-777-4555
Email: [email protected]/