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How Long Do HVAC Systems Last: Factors That Contribute

Invest in HVAC services in Tucson from Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling by calling our office at (520) 207-0334.

When it is time to install an HVAC unit, you want to get several years out of it. To do so, you must be aware of the factors contributing to your heating and cooling system’s lifespan.

Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling is Tucson’s home for HVAC maintenance, installation, and repair. Our licensed and insured technicians will ensure that your heating and cooling unit lasts as long as possible, with proper maintenance treatments.

To help you set realistic expectations for your new HVAC system, below, we will answer the question, “How long do HVAC systems last?”  

Factors That Affect Longevity

Many factors impact how many years you can get from your HVAC system.

Wear and Tear

Sometimes, it is hard to avoid HVAC replacement. Over time, your heater or air conditioner will exhibit signs of wear and tear. If you do not fix these problems immediately, your AC unit will suffer.

Poor Maintenance

Another factor that impacts how long your HVAC system will last is how well you maintain it. Have a professional technician inspect your HVAC unit at least twice per year. These inspections allow you to get ahead of potential long-term problems.

Oversized or Undersized Unit

Often, an HVAC technician may install an oversized or undersized unit in your home. Doing so will cause your heating and cooling unit to run inefficiently. Consult with our HVAC technicians to find the best size heater or cooler for your home.

Life Spans for HVAC Systems

So, how long do HVAC systems last? It depends on what kind of heating and cooling system you have.

Furnace – You can expect to get 15 to 20 years out of your furnace. However, you must invest in maintenance to reach that life expectancy.

Boiler – Typically, boilers will last around 35 years. When your heat exchange leaks, it is a sign that you must replace your boiler.

Air Conditioner – A typical air conditioning unit has an average lifespan of 18 years. If you live in a coastal area, that lifespan decreases to ten years due to salt exposure.

Heat Pump – Heat pumps tend to last around a decade and a half. Compressor failures are the biggest reason why HVAC technicians replace heat pumps.

Ductless Mini-Splits – For ductless mini-split units, expect to get a replacement every 20 years. Coastal areas should replace these units every decade.

Schedule an Appointment Today

People who ask us, “How long do HVAC systems last?” also ask about other parts of their HVAC system. Here are some common HVAC terms you can familiarize yourself with.

Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling provides exceptional HVAC maintenance services to Tucson, AZ, homes, and businesses. Our contractors are licensed and insured, meaning we assume all liability during service calls. Call our office today at (520) 207-0334 to schedule an appointment.

We are also available 24/7 for emergency services!

13 Basic HVAC Terms for Homeowners

If you’re a homeowner, learning the common terminology of your HVAC system will serve you well. After all, you’ll probably need to call an HVAC technician at some point to do a repair or a tune-up.

Read on to learn the most commonly discussed HVAC terms from our Eazy Breezy experts in heating and air conditioning in Tucson, AZ, and make your next HVAC consultation a breeze.

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

The term HVAC covers all ventilation, air conditioner, or heat systems. For instance, central air systems, heat pumps, and boilers all fall under the HVAC umbrella.

Ductwork

Your ductwork includes the network of air ducts that distribute air throughout your home. However, not all HVAC systems depend on ductwork for air circulation. For example, a ductless or mini-split heat system relies on wall-mounted units instead.

Liquid Refrigerant

Liquid refrigerant is the chemical compound an air conditioner uses to absorb heat. Other air conditioner parts transform the liquid refrigerant to vapor, which produces an air conditioner’s cooling effect.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

IAQ describes how the air affects the health of those within or around a building.

Compressor

Compressors are air conditioner components that pressurize refrigerant gas to turn it into a liquid, enabling the refrigerant to absorb heat.

Evaporator Coil

Evaporator coils make up the interior-facing part of an air conditioner that cools liquid refrigerant so it can absorb heat from your home. The evaporator coil then collects the absorbed heat and transfers it to the condenser coil.

Condenser Coil

The condenser coil comprises the exterior-facing section of an air-conditioner and releases the indoor heat collected by the evaporator coil.

Heat Pump

Your heat pump is one of the more confusing HVAC components since this device cycles both warm and cold air through a reversing valve. In winter, a heat pump absorbs heat from outside and transfers it into your home to warm it. Alternatively, a heat pump works like an air conditioner during the summer by transferring the heat inside your home outdoors.

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)

Your SEER is an energy-efficiency ratio found by dividing your unit’s total cooling output during a typical hot season by its total energy input during that same season. Most modern air conditioners have an SEER rating of 13 to 21. For example, an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 20 indicates superior energy efficiency.

Furnace

A furnace is a gas-fired heating system. This system burns gas to generate heat, then distributes the heat using a motor fan.

Filter

A filter prevents harmful air particles from entering your HVAC system. You should clean and replace your filters regularly to ensure their effectiveness.

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values)

MERV is an air filter rating system based on a scale of 1 to 16. For example, a MERV rating of 16 indicates a high-performing filter.

ENERGY STAR®

ENERGY STAR is the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) certification program that helps buyers select the most energy-efficient HVAC systems and appliances.

Eazy Breezy HVAC Services in Tucson, AZ

Congratulations on becoming an expert in commonly used HVAC terms. Now that you know all the terms of the trade, call one of our Eazy Breezy Heating & Cooling professionals at 520-207-0334 to learn more about AC repair services in Tucson, AZ.