How often do I need to replace my air conditioning unit

All Hours Staff • July 20, 2022
An old AC unit that was poorly maintained and needs replaced

Air conditioning units make sweltering Wendell, NC summers bearable. They are the only appliances standing between us and abject misery and discomfort. Unfortunately, AC units tend to break down at the most inconvenient times–days when the high is 105 degrees and the low is 85. Replacing an AC unit on such days can feel like an emergency and, chances are, you won't be the only person in Wake County with the same problem. Our area’s army of HVAC companies will likely be stretched thin helping people in similarly nightmarish positions.


That doesn’t even consider the possible costs of replacement, which can be multiple thousands.


Before your stress goes through the roof worrying about all the ways your HVAC unit could break, remember that the age of your unit is a massive factor affecting the risk that you’ll need to replace it.



So how long do air conditioners last before they need replaced?

The answer to this question can vary significantly depending on the type of unit you have, the quality of the installation work, and how diligently you’ve maintained your air conditioner. But these days, you can generally expect about 15 to 20 years out of your modern, high-efficiency central air conditioning unit–assuming you take good care of it!


You can also often expect about 15 years out of a quality ductless mini-split from a good manufacturer if it’s properly installed and maintained. 


Of course, some units don’t last as long as anticipated and some units just keep plugging along seemingly forever with small and medium repairs here and there. The best way to decide if it’s time to replace your system is to call in an experienced HVAC technician who will give you the information you need to make the best decision for your home without pressuring you into shelling out big money for unneeded services.
Click here to see our list of top five signs it's time to replace your air conditioner.


How can I get All Hours in to replace my air conditioning unit near Wendell, NC?

If your system is broken or you’ve noticed it’s running less efficiently, give us a call! We’ll send out a knowledgeable tech to give you the information you need to make the right decision for your home and system. We’ll never try to sell you a system replacement or any product you don’t need. 


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