How long do central air conditioners last?
Most central air conditioners last 12 to 20 years. A central air conditioner is commonly given 12 to 20 years; ENERGY STAR suggests considering replacement of units about 10 years old for efficiency.
Most air conditioner trouble starts with airflow and refrigerant, and most of the first one you can handle yourself. A clean filter and a clear outdoor unit are the basics.
Typical lifespan: 12 to 20 years
A central air conditioner is commonly given 12 to 20 years; ENERGY STAR suggests considering replacement of units about 10 years old for efficiency.
Central air conditioner maintenance checklist by season
Spring
Replace the filter and book the annual tune-up before the first hot week. Clear leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit and cut back plants a couple of feet.
Summer
Check the filter monthly, since a clogged one reduces airflow and cooling. Make sure the condensate drain is not blocked, and look for ice on the indoor coil, which points to low airflow or a refrigerant problem.
Fall
Clean the outdoor unit with a gentle hose rinse after power is off. Cover only the top if your installer recommends it. Do not wrap the whole unit, which traps moisture.
Winter
Leave the outdoor unit clear of snow and ice. Note any water staining or rust at the cabinet and tell your technician at the spring visit.
Signs your central air conditioner needs replacing
- The system is more than about 10 to 15 years old and uses a refrigerant that is being phased out, which makes repairs expensive.
- It runs constantly but does not cool the house, or cools unevenly.
- Ice on the indoor coil or refrigerant line, or a hissing or bubbling sound.
- Frequent repairs, rising bills or a loud outdoor unit.
- Water leaking around the indoor unit.
Typical central air conditioner warranty
Parts warranties are commonly five years, often extended to ten years when the unit is registered online within a set window. The compressor may carry the longer term. Labor is usually separate from the manufacturer warranty.
An appliance warranty tracker keeps your central air conditioner's coverage dates and receipt in one place.
What to keep for a central air conditioner
- The installation invoice and registration confirmation
- Model and serial numbers for both the indoor and outdoor units
- The refrigerant type and charge shown on the outdoor label
- Service reports and filter size
Common questions
How long do central air conditioners last?
Most central air conditioners last 12 to 20 years. A central air conditioner is commonly given 12 to 20 years; ENERGY STAR suggests considering replacement of units about 10 years old for efficiency.
When should I replace my AC?
ENERGY STAR suggests considering a replacement when the unit is around 10 years old, since newer models are more efficient. Replace sooner for a failed compressor or frequent refrigerant leaks.
How often should an AC be serviced?
Once a year before cooling season is a common recommendation from the Department of Energy and ENERGY STAR, with filter checks monthly in use.
How do I maintain a central air conditioner?
Follow your manual first. Each season: spring, replace the filter and book the annual tune-up before the first hot week. Clear leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit and cut back plants a couple of feet. Fall, clean the outdoor unit with a gentle hose rinse after power is off. Cover only the top if your installer recommends it. Do not wrap the whole unit, which traps moisture.