Age of AC and how long should a system last?
 

We have recently purchased a CYV with the original Trane AC system. It’s 16 years old and is working without any issues. Since we will be snowbirds and won’t be here much of the time we are wondering how long should we expect the system to last? I will say the AC we set at 79 regularly and does a fine job of keeping the home comfortable.

Call chuck Farrell Hvac 352-787-9497 have him check it and he can give you an honest assessment about the condition

Based on a discussion with an AC service person, 12-14 years in the villages, your mileage may vary. My current house up north the system was 38 year old when we purchased the house it still worked.

You can replace it now if a new one will increase the efficiency, power use, and your peace of mind. Or, you can just wait for it to stop working. But, I don't think anyone can tell you when it will fail, and I wouldn't spend any significant amount of money to repair it if it breaks down. Being out of town will not really increase the life span because you need to keep it running to control the humidity in the house.

Mine lasted 13 years.

As others have said, know one can tell you when it will need replacing. I will say that it has met or exceeded it's normal expected lifespan and you should budget for a replacement soon. It may last another 5 years, it may die tomorrow.

Typically we tell folks to expect 12-15 years, provided it has had good regular cleaning and maintenance. Without regular service, I have seen systems need to be replaced in as little as 7-8 years.

So...the question is, do you want to be pro-active or reactive? You will often find better prices during the winter months here, with no pressure to get it done ASAP. Rebates are often available during the winter months.

Do you want to have this work done while you are 1200 miles away?

A new complete system will me MUCH more efficient with a higher SEER rating. Also, it will have R410-A instead of the older , now costly R-22 refrigerant.

If the unit dies when you are away, you could risk mold issues. While it may cost you between 5-7K for a new system, you will save money in the long run with a higher efficiency unit.

The newer units seem to have a lifespan of only 10+ years.

I have heard many good things about Chuck Farrell.

Frank

I had a capacitor fail after 5 years. Not a big repair and probably something we would think would never fail over the life of an A/C. I would probably keep the system if I was here full but since you will not be here I would go with a new system and you probably will be ahead due to efficiency.

Hi, first time posting, I have Trane AC, its 15 years old, no problems with it, just asking for should I replace with the same, or go with another brand? Hope its not a dumb Q.

Kinda old for an air conditioner, but I am not the one to look down on OLD.

The longevity of any system is dependant on the brand, how well and often it has been serviced, etc. If you are here full time you could more easily consider waiting until you need to replace it.

However, I personally do not like to be in a position of getting prices, etc, when the A/C company knows I have NO A/C. I would rather do my research, etc and take my time. Like I said before, one typically can get a better price and rebates when the A/C guys are not as busy, like in the fall/winter.

Folks are naive if they think they are going to "get a great deal" when it is 97 degrees out and all the good A/C guys are working 80 hours a week just to keep everyone happy and cool.

Capacitors are about the #1 part that goes bad on any A/C system. Capacitors and Contactors. I keep extra ones at my house just in case, as they are a inexpensive part, usually below $30.00 and an easy part to replace IF you know what you are doing.

Your A/C system is about the most expensive and important system in your home. Good maintenance can keep it running a few years longer than folks who never get theirs serviced.

Frank

Thank you all for the advice. I will be contacting someone to have a look at the unit. Per my usual research I’ll get a least 2 prices one from a contractor we’ve done business with in the past when we had a winter home in Ocala.

A/C 19 years old, just replaced by Chuck Farrell $4300, American Standard, could not be happier with Chuck Farrell.352-753-9497. Btw, American Standard bought Trane.