Air conditioning isn’t just about comfort in Southern California—it’s a necessity. With hot summers, unpredictable heatwaves, and year-round reliance on HVAC systems, your AC works hard to keep your family cool. But like any machine, your air conditioner won’t last forever. The good news? With the right care and maintenance, you can extend the life of your AC system, reduce costly repairs, and enjoy more efficient performance for years to come.

This article explains simple steps and professional strategies to maximize your AC’s lifespan, common mistakes to avoid, and why expert maintenance is key.

How Long Should an Air Conditioner Last?

Most central air conditioning systems have an average lifespan of 12–15 years, depending on the brand, model, and level of care. In Southern California, where AC units work harder due to high demand, the average can sometimes be closer to 10–12 years.

However, homeowners who stay on top of maintenance—cleaning filters, scheduling tune-ups, and repairing issues early—often see their systems last well over 15 years. That’s the difference between replacing your AC once in 15 years versus possibly twice.

Why Extending Your AC’s Life Matters

Replacing an air conditioning system is a major investment. By extending the life of your current unit, you can:

  • Save money – Avoid premature replacement costs.
  • Reduce repairs – Prevent minor problems from becoming major breakdowns.
  • Lower energy bills – Keep your system running efficiently.
  • Maintain comfort – Ensure consistent cooling, especially during peak summer.
  • Protect your home – A failing AC can cause leaks, mold growth, or electrical issues.

The best part? Many of the steps that extend your AC’s life are simple, affordable, and can be done regularly.

10 Ways to Extend the Life of Your Air Conditioning System

1. Replace Air Filters Regularly

Clogged air filters are the number one cause of strain on AC systems. Dirty filters block airflow, making your system work harder and reducing efficiency.

  • When to replace: Every 1–3 months, depending on usage, pets, and allergies.
  • Tip: Upgrade to a high-efficiency filter (MERV 11 or higher) for better air quality.

2. Schedule Annual Professional Tune-Ups

Think of your AC like a car: it needs regular service to perform its best. A professional tune-up includes cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, tightening connections, and testing system performance.

  • Best time: Spring, before heavy summer use.
  • Benefits: Catch issues early, improve efficiency, and prevent costly breakdowns.

3. Keep Outdoor Units Clean and Clear

Your outdoor condenser unit needs space to “breathe.” Debris, dirt, and plants around the unit restrict airflow.

  • Do this monthly: Remove leaves, grass clippings, and trash from around the unit.
  • Maintain clearance: Keep at least two feet of space around the condenser.

4. Clean Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Dust and dirt buildup on coils reduce heat transfer, forcing your AC to run longer. Professional cleaning once a year ensures maximum efficiency.

  • DIY step: Gently rinse coils with a garden hose (avoid high pressure).
  • Professional step: Have coils deep-cleaned during annual maintenance.

5. Inspect and Seal Ductwork

Leaky or dirty ducts cause cool air to escape before reaching rooms, forcing your AC to work harder. Duct cleaning and sealing can improve airflow and efficiency by up to 20–30%.

6. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Running your AC constantly is one of the fastest ways to wear it out. A programmable thermostat allows you to:

  • Raise temperatures when you’re away.
  • Reduce usage during cooler nights.
  • Optimize comfort without overworking the system.

7. Maintain Proper Insulation

Insulation keeps cooled air inside your home. Poorly insulated attics or leaky windows force your AC to run longer cycles. Adding insulation or sealing leaks reduces strain.

8. Avoid Overworking the System

On extremely hot days, it’s tempting to set the thermostat much lower, but that only makes your AC work harder without cooling faster.

  • Best practice: Set thermostat between 74–78°F.
  • Extra tip: Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air more effectively.

9. Address Repairs Promptly

If your AC makes strange noises, leaks, or struggles to cool, don’t wait. Small issues—like refrigerant leaks or worn belts—can snowball into major system failures if ignored.

10. Upgrade When the Time Is Right

While maintenance extends lifespan, every AC eventually reaches its limit. Replacing an outdated unit with a high-efficiency Lennox® system can save money long-term, especially if your unit is over 15 years old.

Mistakes That Shorten AC Lifespan

To keep your air conditioner running strong, avoid these common mistakes:

  • Ignoring filter changes
  • Skipping annual tune-ups
  • Blocking vents with furniture or rugs
  • Running the AC nonstop without breaks
  • Attempting DIY refrigerant refills or repairs
  • Neglecting duct maintenance

Avoiding these pitfalls goes a long way in protecting your investment.

The Role of Professional Maintenance

While some steps are DIY-friendly, professional maintenance is critical to truly extend your system’s lifespan. Certified HVAC technicians can:

  • Identify worn parts before they break
  • Clean components safely and thoroughly
  • Ensure refrigerant levels are correct
  • Test electrical systems for safety
  • Optimize system performance for efficiency

A well-maintained AC doesn’t just last longer—it also keeps your energy bills lower and your home more comfortable.

Why Southern California Homes Need Extra Care

Families in Southern California rely on air conditioning more than in many other parts of the country. Between scorching San Fernando Valley summers, wildfire smoke, and year-round heat in places like Los Angeles and Pasadena, AC systems rarely get a break.

That constant demand makes preventive care even more important. Skipping maintenance here can cut years off your system’s life.

Around the Clock Heating and Air Conditioning: Protecting Your Comfort Since 1967

At Around the Clock Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve spent over five decades helping Southern California families get the most from their HVAC systems. As a Lennox® Premier Dealer ranked in the top 5% nationwide, we specialize in extending the life of AC systems through expert maintenance, repairs, and replacements when needed.

When you trust our team, you can expect:

  • Licensed, bonded, and insured technicians
  • Comprehensive tune-ups and maintenance packages
  • Honest, upfront recommendations for repairs or replacements
  • Indoor air quality solutions to keep your home healthier
  • Service tailored to the unique climate challenges of Southern California

Call to Action: Keep Your AC Running Strong

Don’t wait until the next heatwave to find out your air conditioner is struggling. Protect your investment, reduce repairs, and keep your family cool by scheduling professional maintenance today.

Call Around the Clock Heating and Air Conditioning at (310) 274-5525 or (818) 506-4400
Or request service online: https://aroundclock.com/contact

With the right care, your AC system can keep your family comfortable for many years to come. Trust Around the Clock Heating and Air Conditioning—your climate, controlled.