How Long Do AC Units Last in Tampa, Florida?

You have just purchased a house in the Tampa Bay area and you know that the current air conditioning unit has more than a few years on it. Thinking about the future, you start to wonder: How long do air conditioning units last here in coastal Florida?

The answer is that a well-maintained AC unit can last 10-15 years and even longer. Many factors influence the lifespan of an AC unit in Tampa, Florida, including the:

• system quality
• daily run-time hours
• frequency of system maintenance
• local climate

The professionals of Sun Air Services are always ready to help local residents and businesses with AC maintenance, installation, and emergency repair in Tampa.

Wear and Tear

The humid coastal subtropical climate of the Tampa Bay area means that your cooling system works hard throughout a large part of the year. An air conditioning system that may last 20 years and longer in the Northern states could succumb to wear and tear within 8-14 years in Florida.

Furthermore, the outdoor parts of your AC unit suffer from exposure to the elements. In a coastal climate, the condenser coil is usually the biggest concern. The salt in the air gradually damages the protective oxide layer of the condenser coil and eventually the metal coil itself.

AC System Quality

Not all AC systems are suited to heavy-duty use and exposure to the elements in coastal Florida. Choosing a quality, the climate-adapted system will help ensure that you remain cool and comfortable throughout the summer and enjoy your AC system for many years with regular maintenance.

If you need to install a new air conditioner, you might want to consider a modern and efficient ductless system. Ductless systems allow better temperature control, prevent air leaks, and bypass dust and dirt accumulation in the ductwork.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Regular upkeep and maintenance will extend the life of your AC system and help prevent costly repairs down the road. You can perform some maintenance elements yourself. For example:

• Make sure that grass, foliage, and debris do not clog the outdoor part of the AC unit
• Clean around the indoor air handler
• Change the air filter regularly

However, it’s best to leave some parts of AC upkeep to HVAC professionals. These include:

• Replacing worn or broken components
• Cleaning the ductwork and the inner parts of the AC system
• Calibrating the thermostat and outdoor compressor unit

To make sure your AC system remains in top condition for as long as possible, consider purchasing an Annual AC Maintenance Plan from Sun Air Tampa.

Do You Need to Repair or Replace Your AC System?

Even with optimal maintenance and care, no air conditioning system lasts forever. If your AC system is 10-15 years or older, you might want to consider an upgrade even if all parts are still functioning. Newer, more energy-efficient AC systems will help reduce your energy bills.

Your AC unit may require professional servicing ASAP if you notice any of the following signs:

• Warm air blowing out of the vents when the AC is on cooling mode
• Insufficient airflow
• High humidity indoors
• Water leaks
• Unpleasant odors
• Strange noises

Sun Air Tampa: 24/7 HVAC Service in Tampa, FL

Regular preventative maintenance is the number one way to help your AC unit last longer. Sun Air Tampa is here for all your AC needs, with high-quality brands, excellent service, and competitive prices. Call 813-694-8989 for a maintenance appointment, installation quote, or 24/7 emergency repair service.