What's The Average Lifespan Of A Window AC Unit?

Though a window AC unit costs less than an entire central cooling system, you'd still want it to last as long as possible to recoup your investment. But how long will your air conditioner last? Generally, a window AC lasts eight to 10 years. However, your appliance may run a few more years without trouble if you invest in a high-quality unit. And even if such units start acting up, you can turn to the manufacturer's warranty (or extended coverage) to avoid paying for repairs and replacements out of your own pocket. High-efficiency models also tend to last longer.

However, its build quality won't matter much if you don't maintain your model well and clean your window AC unit at regular intervals. This is because a dirty filter or filthy coils forces the machine to work harder to cool down a room. And this can wear out the parts faster than you'd like. The same thing happens if you run the unit without reprieve, especially if it's set to a low temperature to beat the summer heat. Comparatively, machines running on eco-friendly mode or high temperatures will have a longer life. 

The climate will have an impact, too. If you live in a region with hot and humid weather (think Texas or Florida), your appliance may need to be replaced earlier than expected since it'll be working harder to cool a room. Another important factor is the air quality. High levels of dust and pollutants will put it through the wringer and cut short your AC's life dramatically. And if you live near an ocean, salt spray will promote corrosion, forcing you to get a replacement sooner rather than later.

Despite maintaining your window AC and minimizing stressors, it'll still require repairs and replacements after a few years. Once the warranty expires or your unit celebrates its 10th birthday, it may be more economical to purchase a new AC since replacement parts may be challenging to find or too expensive. If you aren't sure, do a simple calculation: Will you spend more than 50% of the AC's cost to get it fixed? If the answer is yes, it's best to look for other models, particularly if the compressor or motor needs to be changed. However, if the overall quote is lower, a tune-up can be sufficient. That being said, only go this route if your appliance isn't old and doesn't breakdown often. A model that continually goes out of service isn't worth an additional investment.

Another sign is if your appliance stops cooling the room or takes too long to do its job. You can try cleaning your device or recharging the refrigerant, but if that doesn't help, it's probably best to spring for a new unit when you can. Additionally, higher than normal energy bills can indicate a refrigerant problem and shouldn't be ignored. You should also purchase a new AC when you start hearing strange sounds (such as scraping or banging), as this can imply that the internal components are reaching the end of the rope. Moreover, if you find dusty surfaces even after staying up-to-date on your cleaning routine, your appliance's filtration system might be deteriorating, signaling the need for an upgrade. Further, check out the window AC brands to avoid before investing in your next unit.