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5 Reasons That Kill the Life of Your AC

5 Reasons That Kill the Life of Your AC

Air conditioners are essential for maintaining comfort, especially in hot climates. However, improper maintenance and certain habits can drastically reduce AC lifespan.In this article, we will discuss five common factors that can reduce the lifespan of your AC and how to avoid these 5 reasons that kill the life of your AC.

1. Dirty Air Filters

One of the primary causes of AC failure is neglecting to clean or replace air filters regularly. Clogged filters hinder airflow, forcing your AC to work harder to cool your home. This added strain can damage the system over time.

Why It Shortens AC Life:

Limited airflow puts excessive strain on the blower motor, resulting in early failure.
– Dirt buildup can clog the evaporator coil, reducing cooling efficiency and causing the system to freeze.

Prevention Tip:

Change or clean your air filters every 1 to 3 months to ensure proper airflow and enhance efficiency.

2. Skipping Regular Maintenance

Skipping routine maintenance is a quick way to reduce your AC’s lifespan. Yearly tune-ups enable professionals to spot minor issues before they escalate into significant problems. Ignoring maintenance can cause small issues to escalate, resulting in costly repairs.

Why It Shortens AC Life:

– Lack of maintenance can lead to refrigerant leaks, clogged coils, and electrical problems.
– Without regular upkeep, components wear out faster and efficiency decreases.

Prevention Tip:

Arrange for professional maintenance at least once a year to ensure your AC operates efficiently.

3. Improper AC Size and Installation

An improperly sized AC can lead to inefficiency and frequent breakdowns. A unit that is too small will have difficulty cooling the area, whereas an oversized unit will frequently turn on and off, which can harm the compressor.

Why It Shortens AC Life:

– An undersized AC works overtime, leading to overheating.
Oversized units undergo short cycling, leading to increased wear and tear on the system.

Prevention Tip:

Seek advice from an HVAC professional to confirm that your AC is appropriately sized for your home and installed properly.

4. Overworking the AC

Running your AC continuously, especially during extremely hot weather, can overwork it. This puts strain on the compressor, one of the most expensive parts of the system, and increases the risk of breakdowns.

Why It Shortens AC Life:

– Overuse leads to overheating, damaging the compressor and other components.
– Operating at low temperatures makes the system work harder than it needs to.
Prevention Tip: Set your thermostat to a moderate temperature (24-26°C or 75-78°F) and give your AC breaks by using fans or blinds to reduce heat indoors.

5. Blocked Vents and Poor Airflow

Restricted airflow due to blocked vents or clogged ducts can significantly reduce your AC’s efficiency. When airflow is compromised, the system must work harder to distribute cool air, putting strain on the motor.

Why It Shortens AC Life:

– Blocked airflow overworks the fan motor and compressor, leading to faster breakdowns.
– Obstructed vents can cause the system to freeze, resulting in expensive repairs.
Prevention Tip: Ensure proper airflow throughout your home by keeping vents clear and cleaning ducts regularly.

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