What shortens a system's life?
- Oversizing, which makes the system turn on and off in short bursts.
- Undersizing, which makes it run long and hard on the hottest and coldest days.
- Installation problems, including ductwork that restricts airflow.
- Skipped maintenance and clogged filters.
- Running constantly through long cooling and heating seasons.
What helps a system last?
Correct sizing and a careful installation come first; maintenance can't fully make up for either. After that, regular maintenance and clean filters help the equipment run the way it was designed to, and catching small problems early keeps them from turning into larger ones.
My system is getting older. Should I replace it now?
Not just because of its age. If it's reliable and keeping you comfortable, there's no need to replace a working system on a schedule. What's worth doing is planning ahead: knowing your options before a breakdown means you aren't making a big decision in a hurry on the hottest or coldest day of the year.
