As Floridians, we know firsthand that the heat and humidity can be unbearable at times. That’s why it’s so important to have a functioning AC unit to keep us cool and comfortable. But just how long do AC units last in Florida? And what can homeowners and business owners do to help them last as long as possible? These are some of the questions we’re going to answer for you today!
In this blog post, we will discuss the average lifespan of an AC unit in Florida along with some tips for how to make them last longer—so don’t miss it.
How Long Do AC Units Last In Florida?
The truth is, the lifespan of an AC unit can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the type of unit, how well it’s maintained, and the climate it’s in.
In general, however, most AC units will last between 10 and 15 years, with many lasting up to 20 years when they’re well-maintained.
There’s more good news. There are many things homeowners and business owners can do to help their AC units last longer, so let’s talk about those next.
What Can You Do to Help AC Units Last Longer in Florida?
Homeowners and business owners in Florida can help their AC units last longer by taking a few preventative measures.
Keep it clear of debris
Leaves, dirt, pollen, and other debris can all clog up your AC unit and prevent it from running properly. This means it won’t be able to cool your home or office as effectively, which could lead to higher energy bills. At the same time, it can also shorten the lifespan of your AC unit.
So, give your AC unit a regular inspection to look out for any of these things that might be slowing it down.
Keep plants away from your outdoor unit
It’s also important to keep plants away from your outdoor unit. If you have foliage or other things growing too close, it could impede airflow and cause your system to work harder than necessary. Give it some breathing room so it can operate as efficiently as possible.
Change the air filter on a regular basis
One of the most important things you can do for your AC unit is change the filter regularly. A clogged or dirty filter will make your AC unit work harder than necessary and can shorten its lifespan. How often you need to change the filter depends on the type of filter you have as well as the environment in which you live.
In Florida, aim for at least every one to three months (more often if the unit is in constant use). Clean the coils and fins on the outdoor condenser unit regularly, too.
Not sure how to change your AC filter by yourself? We’d be happy to help when you book our services.
But in the meantime, here are some simple steps to follow for changing the AC filter:
- Turn off the power to the AC unit at the breaker box.
- Remove the front panel of the AC unit.
- Locate the air filter and remove it.
- Install a new air filter in the same location.
- Replace the front panel of the AC unit.
- Turn on the power to the AC unit at the breaker box.
(Read about three signs it’s time to replace your AC filter here)
Keep your thermostat temperatures a bit higher on hotter days
This will help your unit not have to work as hard, and therefore last longer. That’s because every time your unit kicks on, it’s working a little harder than the last time, and this overtime work can lead to a shorter lifespan.
Of course, you want you and your family to be comfortable, so if it’s hot outside and you need to keep the thermostat lower, do so. Just know it will likely shorten the lifespan of your unit a bit.
In addition to temperature, humidity levels also play a role in how long your AC unit lasts. And if you live in Florida, you’re no stranger to the reality and effects of humidity. While you can’t control the humidity outdoors, there are a few ways to help keep humidity under control in your home.
If the air inside your home is too humid, it can cause corrosion and other problems for your AC unit. Not to mention, humidity makes your home feel warmer than it really is, which means you might feel the need to crank up your AC to counter the effects of humidity.
The ideal relative humidity level for an AC unit is between 40 and 55 percent. You can buy a hygrometer to measure the humidity in your home. The typical cost online for a digital hygrometer is around $40-50.
There are a few things you can do to reduce the humidity in your home, such as using a dehumidifier, running the bathroom exhaust fan while you shower, or opening the windows on days when the weather report shows the outdoor humidity is below %50.
Leave air vents slightly open
When you leave your home for an extended period of time, it’s important to leave your air vents slightly open. This allows air to circulate and prevents moisture from building up, which can lead to mold growth. The fact is that you should never completely close off any vents. If your experiencing a cold room then call the experts at A/C Care for one of our qualified technicians to come out and adjust the airflow to the individual bedroom.
If you have a central AC unit, be sure to have someone check on it while you’re away to make sure it’s running properly too.
Use fans to help your air conditioner out
Did you know one of the best ways to help your air conditioner last longer is by using fans? That’s right, fans. Fans can help circulate the air in your home and make it feel cooler without adding any extra strain on your AC unit.
So, next time you’re feeling a little bit warm, try reaching for a fan instead of immediately turning on your AC unit. You may be surprised at how much of a difference it makes.
We know, that a big part of the reason for installing AC is so you don’t have to worry about running fans. But, if you’re looking to save some money on your energy bill and also help out your AC unit, it’s worth giving fans a try if it’s convenient for you to do so!
Use blinds and drapes strategically.
In the summer, keep them closed during the hottest part of the day to help keep your home cooler.
But in the winter, open them up during the daytime to let in some sunshine and heat.
You can also invest in energy-efficient window treatments to help insulate your home from both hot and cold temperatures.
Schedule regular AC maintenance in Florida
Regular AC maintenance is without a doubt, one of the most effective ways to help an AC unit lasts as long as possible.
At AC Care Heat and Air, our team of experienced and certified AC technicians offers comprehensive AC maintenance services designed to keep your unit running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
During a regular AC maintenance appointment, our technician will:
- Clean the condenser coils
- Inspect the evaporator coils
- Test the refrigerant levels
- Lubricate all moving parts
- Inspect the electrical components
- Clean or replace the air filter
And more!
While no one can give you an exact answer on how long your AC unit will last in Florida, following these tips should help it to last for many years.
And if you do have any problems with your AC unit, be sure to call a professional for help so you can get it fixed as soon as possible.
Call AC Care Heat and Air Today
Do you need AC repair in Port St. Lucie, FL? Or perhaps you’re in need of AC repair in Palm Beach County? With service areas on Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches, we’re here to help! Call A/C Care Heat and Air to book AC repair, installation, or maintenance today.