It's highly unlikely that your HVAC unit will last 30 years before it needs to be replaced; however, if you follow a regular preventive maintenance routine and operate it properly, your chances of keeping the same unit for about 15 years increase considerably. With proper maintenance, gas ovens usually last 20 to 30 years or even longer. A furnace is usually replaced when the heat exchanger starts to leak, as it is one of the most critical and expensive components. Poorly maintained or questionable quality systems can last as little as 10 years, while petroleum furnaces usually only last 10 to 15 years due to maintenance problems caused by an inefficient fuel.
As an expert in the HVAC industry, I can tell you that the average life expectancy of an HVAC system is 20 years, but they can last between 10 and 30 years. Many factors influence the lifespan of an air conditioning system, such as the brand you buy, how often you use it and whether you perform maintenance, such as changing filters and cleaning the unit regularly. In the United States, the average lifespan of an air conditioning system is 14 years. Of course, systems can last much longer or die out much sooner for a variety of reasons. Many utility companies will offer HVAC rebates when you're ready to upgrade your HVAC system to an energy-efficient model.
Air conditioning technology has come a long way and your home's energy efficiency is affected simply by keeping older air conditioning technology. So it's time to think about a replacement, yes, even if it “continues to work well”. While these are the most common life periods, many homeowners choose to replace their HVAC system sooner. So, when it comes time to replace your HVAC system, there are incentives to make the transition to a heat pump easier to afford. What most homeowners don't know is that, even with a newer, energy efficient HVAC system, if your home isn't properly insulated or professionally sealed, the lifespan of your HVAC system is automatically shortened.
Over time, all homeowners wonder if it's better to replace or repair their air conditioning system. If your 20-year-old air conditioning system regularly blows warm air or makes loud noises, it could be a sign that it's time to replace it. Regular cleaning and annual professional HVAC maintenance by a local HVAC technician can considerably extend their lifespan.
