While HVAC systems do range in quality, the longevity of your system will also depend on practicing preventative maintenance. Most people know to replace or clean their air filter every 30 days, but there’s more you should do to care for your system. A Scranton, PA, heating and cooling contractor will provide the maintenance and additional services you need to keep each component of your system functioning efficiently for longer.
Longevity of HVAC Components
Each component in your heating and cooling system will have its own unique lifespan. This means your furnace may outlast your air conditioner or vice versa. Here is a look at the average HVAC lifespan for each component.
Furnace
The HVAC life expectancy for your furnace will vary based upon the type of unit in your Scranton, PA, home. An oil furnace can be expected to last up to ten years or less due to this unit’s inefficient use of fuel. A gas furnace will last considerably longer, ranging from 10 to 20 years. In most cases, a failing heat exchanger will necessitate installing a new furnace, as the exchanger is an expensive component to replace.
Boiler
The heating system’s boiler will also need to be replaced when the heat exchanger develops leaks. In most situations, the boiler will last up to 25 years.
Air Conditioner
As a whole, the cooling system in your Scranton, PA, home can last up to 20 years. However, HVAC units in homes that are located closer to the coast may have a shorter lifespan since exposure to salt in the air can corrode the system. You may also need to replace the condenser if the compressor or connecting hoses develop leaks.
Heat Pump
Despite its name, the heat pump is used year-round to service both the heating and cooling systems. Through this normal cycle of wear and tear, a heat pump’s longest HVAC age is considerably shorter than that of other equipment. You should expect to replace it every seven to 12 years.
Ductless Mini-Split System
The mini-split system provides both heating and cooling, which means it’s used year-round. While forced-air HVAC systems are used to heat and cool an entire home, the mini-split system is best used to service one room or area. As such, the useful life of an HVAC unit can be up to 20 years before it needs to be replaced.
How to Extend the Life of Your Heating and Cooling System
Your heating and cooling components rely on preventative maintenance and care to meet their expected HVAC lifespans. Make sure to schedule a seasonal inspection in the fall and spring with your HVAC contractor. With regular inspections, your contractor can identify problems before they cause a failure of your system.
When a mechanical issue is identified, make sure to schedule repairs as early as possible. Operating your system with a damaged or failing component will waste energy and may cause problems with other components. In this way, scheduling service as soon as it’s needed will save you money in the long run.
Call the Professionals at T.E. Spall & Son for HVAC Services
Whether your home needs heating and cooling maintenance, repairs, or replacement, contact T.E. Spall & Son. Our technicians have the skills and equipment to provide you with the highest quality of service for your HVAC system.
Contact us today or give us a call at (570) 281-0155 for more information on HVAC services in the Scranton, PA area, or to schedule a service with one of our professionals.
