If you’ve noticed that your energy bill tends to fluctuate quite a bit from quarter to quarter, you’re not alone.
A/C Designs of St. Augustine, LLC Blog: Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning’ Category
Your Utility Bill & A/C System: How Much of Your Bill is Attributed to Your A/C?
Wednesday, April 15th, 2020How Long Does An A/C Unit Typically Last?
Friday, March 20th, 2020Your a/c is often the silent hero of your home, consistently maintaining it at a comfortable temperature no matter what the outside weather is like. But far too often, your a/c unit isn’t appreciated for all it does until it suddenly stops. Just how long can you expect an a/c unit to last? Learn more about the average lifespan of the typical a/c unit, as well as what you can do to extend the usable life of your current unit.
Typical A/C Lifespan
The life expectancy of your a/c depends on several factors, including:
- Brand of the unit
- How frequently you use it
- If it’s located in direct sun for much of the day (therefore forcing it to work harder)
- If it’s exposed to salty sea air, sand, or other abrasive elements
- How often you perform routine maintenance
The “average” a/c will usually last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, though maintenance (or the lack thereof) can skew this figure in one direction or the other.
Extending Your A/C’s Working Life
By far the most impactful factor in your a/c’s life expectancy is the maintenance you perform on the unit. If you don’t clean out debris regularly, cover the unit during winter to protect it from the elements, change your air filters on a regular basis, monitor your refrigerant, and have an occasional tune-up performed, you could be shortening your unit’s life by years.
You’ll also want to do what you can to reduce the burden your a/c bears while it’s working. This can mean shading the unit so that it doesn’t get too hot in the Jacksonville summers, monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy to ensure that it’s not causing the unit to cycle on and off too often, and, in some cases, even upgrading to a larger a/c unit that’s sufficient to accommodate your home’s needs without overworking itself. An a/c that runs or cycles too frequently is at risk of overheating, which can lead to a whole host of potentially expensive problems.
Finally, it’s a good idea to schedule annual tune-ups with a reputable HVAC company. By giving your unit a thorough once-over, HVAC professionals like those at A/C Designs can spot any problems before they start, preventing potentially expensive repairs (or even a/c replacement) down the road. If it’s been a while since your a/c unit was given some TLC, visit our website to learn more about the services we offer or to get in touch with one of our experienced a/c technicians.
3 Common A/C Problems and How to Fix Them
Friday, February 14th, 2020While homeowners in some parts of the country have a long “off-season” to have their a/c repaired or replaced, most Florida residents use their a/c for a significant portion of the year. Because of this, it’s important to diagnose and repair any issues quickly, before they begin to have a serious impact on your unit and home comfort. Take a look at three of the most common a/c problems and how you can fix them.
What You Need to Know About the R22 Refrigerant Ban
Wednesday, January 29th, 2020Beginning in 2020, homeowners whose heating or cooling systems use R22 refrigerant will get a firsthand look at part of this phase-out process. As of January 1, 2020, U.S. consumers and retailers will no longer be allowed to produce, sell, or import R22 refrigerant, which could present complications for those with older HVAC systems. Learn more about the factors behind this phase-out and what homeowners can do to maintain their cooling systems going forward.
Protecting Your HVAC Unit During Inconsistent Weather
Monday, January 20th, 2020Residents of the parts of the U.S. with four distinct seasons know to expect chilly temperatures from Thanksgiving to Easter (and sometimes beyond). But many Floridians are just as likely to need their air conditioner as their heater during the winter months, which can make it tough to maintain a well-functioning HVAC system. Here are some tips and tricks you can use to protect your HVAC system during Florida’s unpredictable weather patterns.
8 HVAC Tips for 2020
Friday, January 17th, 2020Jacksonville’s climate, with its frequently-fluctuating temperatures and high humidity levels, can make HVAC maintenance a challenge. Fortunately, engaging in some regular preventive maintenance can often help you avoid big-ticket repairs. This article will explore 8 ways you can optimize your HVAC’s performance in 2020.
3 Tips to Keep Your Guests Comfortable This Holiday Season
Monday, November 25th, 2019If you’re hosting guests this holiday season, you may already be preparing for their arrival. You may also feel your stress level rising as your to-do list continues to grow. But being a good host doesn’t have to be stressful, especially with some planning and preparation before their arrival. Read on for some tips and tricks that can help keep your guests comfortable in your home over the holidays.
3 of the Spookiest A/C Problems & How You Can Solve Them
Monday, October 21st, 2019Is your home haunted? Or is it just your a/c? We’re here to debunk three of the most common misconceptions your home experiences during this spooky fall season.
How Do I Take Care of My Outside A/C Unit?
Wednesday, October 9th, 2019Even if you keep your indoor air ducts and filters as clean as a whistle, without regular maintenance, your outdoor a/c unit can quickly fall victim to environmental wear and tear. Fortunately, keeping your outside a/c system in good working condition doesn’t need to be a tough or time-consuming process. Take a look at some tips and tricks on caring for your outside unit.