In the blistering heat of an Arizona summer, your air conditioner becomes more than just a household appliance – it’s a lifeline to comfort. When the temperatures soar, it’s imperative not only for your comfort but for your general safety, that your air conditioner continues to provide you and your home with fresh, cool air. This then begs the question, how long do air conditioners last in Arizona? Understanding the factors that play into the lifespan of air conditioners in Arizona’s unrelenting heat is essential when trying to answer that question.

Typically, the lifespan of an air conditioner varies based on factors such as location, model, and maintenance. Nationally, air conditioners can last up to 20 years, but in Arizona, where the summer demands constant usage, the lifespan of an air conditioner is often lower, averaging about 12 years. There are several critical factors to consider when trying to estimate the lifespan of your air conditioner, such as:

 

• The Type of System
• The Size of the AC Unit
• Regular Maintenance
• The Installation Quality

The Type of System

Heat pump systems and straight cool systems are often put forward as excellent choices for residential cooling. There is a major difference between the two, which is that a heat pump system can provide both heating and cooling, while a straight cool system provides heat only. As heat pump systems are more likely to be running year-round, they are naturally prone to shorter lifespans. A straight cool system, on the other hand, will be able to rest during cooler months, giving it a greater likelihood of outliving its heat pump counterpart.

The Sizing of the AC Unit

Both oversized and undersized air conditioners can lead to reduced lifespans. Oversized units can cool homes too quickly, causing frequent cycling wear and tear. Undersized units tend to struggle to cool adequately, leading to constant running, and increased chance of damage. When looking to make an air conditioner last long in Arizona, properly sizing that AC unit is essential.

Regular Maintenance

Ensuring you have regular maintenance done on your air conditioner is key to it having a long life. Scheduling professional service on your air conditioner at least once a year, preferably before the temperatures rise too high, can lead to issues being caught and your system being kept in working order. A well-maintained AC system will oftentimes last longer than one that is neglected. Of course, the AC unit itself isn’t the only part that requires maintenance. Your air conditioner relies on clean and efficient ductwork to function optimally. Regular duct cleaning should be performed to ensure the wear and tear on the full system is minimized. Your AC unit will thank you.

Installation Quality

Proper air conditioner installation is essential. As with many of the factors affecting your AC unit’s lifespan, it comes down to how often it must operate, and at what level. If ductwork within the AC system is improperly sealed, or if there is an issue with connections at the AC unit itself, leaks can occur and efficiency can plummet. Having your AC unit installed in an area that is more prone to airborne debris such as dust will likely lead to clogged filters, requiring the air conditioner to work longer and more strenuously.

As you can see, understanding how long your air conditioner will last in the harsh Arizona summers can be made slightly easier when you have the facts. While your air conditioner is operating in an extremely demanding environment, there are proactive steps that can be taken to maximize its lifespan. In the relentless heat, a properly sized, well-maintained AC unit can be your biggest ally in staying cool and comfortable for years to come.

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