Most HVAC systems are built to last between 10 and 15 years, but many homeowners manage to increase their life by 5-10 years. Have you also seen HVAC systems being used for more than 2 decades? Do you also want your HVAC system to last longer? Are you wondering if it is possible to make your HVAC system last longer?

Let us tell you that it is possible to increase the lifespan of your HVAC system, and you don’t have to make much effort for that. All you need to do is maintain it properly, understand how it keeps your home cool in summer and warm in the winter, and change the filters regularly. Yes, it’s that easy! And if you want to learn more about increasing your HVAC system’s lifespan, read this blog until the end!

Understand Your HVAC System

Before you perform anything, spare some time from your busy schedule to understand the HVAC engineering of your house and how your HVAC system works to maintain a comfortable temperature. You may not find credible information on this topic, so here is all you need to know about your HVAC system:

  • HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.
  • The main parts include the furnace or heat pump, the air conditioner, filters, ducts, vents, and the thermostat.
  • Ductwork carries heated or cooled air.
  • A furnace or heat pump heats the air in winter
  • An air conditioner cools the air in the summer.
  • Air filters keep dust and allergens out of the air and protect the system.
  • The thermostat sets your desired temperature and tells the system when to turn on/off.

Though these are the basics, you can educate yourself more about HVAC systems through the user manual you got with your system or online forums that talk about HVAC systems. Once you know how your HVAC system works, you can easily spot problems and fix them to ensure the longevity of your system.

Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance

If you want your HVAC system to last longer, regular professional maintenance is a must. Just like your car, your heating and cooling system needs routine check-ups to keep everything running smoothly. It is recommended that you have a licensed HVAC technician inspect your system twice annually. Here’s what a technician is supposed to do during a maintenance visit:

  • Check refrigerant levels and look for leaks
  • Clean coil, blower, and drain lines.
  • Inspect electrical connections and controls.
  • Test thermostat accuracy.
  • Lubricate moving parts.
  • Ensures safe and proper airflow.

All these check-ups help catch small problems before they turn into expensive repairs. They also keep your system running more efficiently, which can lower your energy bills.

Change Your HVAC Filters Regularly

One of the easiest and most important things you can do to ensure the longevity of your HVAC system is to change the air filter regularly. The filter’s job is to trap dust, dirt, pollen, and other particles so they don’t get into your system or back into the air you breathe. However, when HVAC filters get dirty and clogged, it can choke airflow and force your HVAC system to work harder than it should, leading to:

  • Higher energy bills.
  • Reduced airflow and comfort.
  • More wear and tear on the system.
  • Shorter system lifespan.

Though most of you must be aware of this simple and important tip, what you don’t know is how often to change the HVAC air filters. Here is all the information you need regarding the frequency of changing the filters:

  • Change HVAC filters every 1-3 months.
  • Change them more often if you have pets, allergies, or a lot of dust in your home.

Some filters are disposable, others are washable and reusable, so know which one you have to ensure you change them at the right time to keep your HVAC system working smoothly and utility bills lower.

Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Clear

The outdoor unit plays a vital role in maintaining the temperature of your house. But if it’s clogged with leaves, dirt, or debris, it can’t do its job properly. When the airflow of the outdoor unit is blocked, the system overheats and works harder than it should, which leads to:

  • Lower efficiency
  • Higher utility bills
  • Shorter system lifespan
  • More frequent breakdowns

To ensure the longevity of your HVAC system, follow the steps below:

  • Clear at least 2 feet of space around the outdoor HVAC unit.
  • Remove leaves, grass clippings, sticks, and dirt from around and on top of the unit.
  • Turn off the power and gently hose down the fins a few times a year.
  • Avoid stacking items on or near the outdoor unit of your HVAC system.

Pro Tip: If the outdoor unit of your HVAC system is sinking or tilting, get it leveled. Poor positioning can damage internal parts and affect drainage.

Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

When something is wrong with an HVAC system, it will give you clues, like strange noises, weak airflow, unusual smells, etc. However, most people ignore them until they transform into big problems. If you want your HVAC system to last longer, make sure you don’t ignore these common warning signs:

  • Strange noises
  • Unusual smells
  • Weak airflow
  • Rising energy bills
  • Uneven temperatures

If you notice any of these signs, act promptly. Call a professional HVAC expert ASAP, as ignoring them can lead to more serious damage, higher repair costs, or even full system failure.

Read Also – Common HVAC Problems in Buildings

On the Final Note

HVAC systems typically last between 10 and 15 years, but some homeowners can extend their lifespan with proper maintenance. There are many ways you can also try to make your HVAC system last longer, including scheduling regular professional maintenance, changing your HVAC filters, and keeping the outdoor unit clean. All the information you need to increase the useful lifespan of your HVAC is mentioned above. If you need more information on the HVAC system or are looking for MEP engineers in Alberta, contact Startech Engineering immediately!

FAQs

Q. What makes HVAC high efficiency?

A high-efficiency HVAC system uses less energy to produce the same heating or cooling. It is typically rated by higher SEER or AFUE numbers.

Q. How do I know if my HVAC is high efficiency?

Check the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) or AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating. The higher the number, the better its efficiency.

Q. Does HVAC affect air quality?

Yes, HVAC systems directly impact indoor air quality through ventilation, filtration, and humidity control.

Q. How do you test HVAC performance?

HVAC performance is tested by checking airflow, temperature output, refrigerant levels, and system pressure using professional tools.