What is the average lifespan of AC?

Most central air conditioning systems last about 12 to 15 years, and many continue cooling effectively into their mid-teens when properly maintained. Lifespan varies by type and usage, so this range serves as a general guideline.

Lifespan by type

Lifespan varies by system type. Here is a breakdown to set expectations for common configurations.

Central air conditioning

• Typical life: 12–15 years, with many units lasting longer if they receive regular maintenance and timely repairs.


• Factors that can push toward the upper end: professional annual tune-ups, clean coils, and good outdoor unit airflow.


• Factors that can shorten life: neglected maintenance, refrigerant leaks, and extreme temperatures stressing the compressor.

Central systems often share a similar core reliability, but proper service and installation quality play outsized roles in extending their useful life.

Window and portable units

• Window units: typically 8–12 years, depending on build quality and how hard they’re worked.


• Portable units: commonly 5–7 years, with some reaching toward a decade under careful use and maintenance.

These types are generally less durable than split systems, but suitable for supplemental cooling or smaller spaces.

Ductless mini-splits and heat pumps

• Ductless mini-splits: usually 12–15 years, and many exceed that with routine service.


• Air-source heat pumps (which both heat and cool): typically 12–15 years, though some models can approach 20 years with good maintenance.

Heat pumps blur the line between heating and cooling equipment, so their longevity is closely tied to usage patterns and efficiency maintenance.

What affects how long an AC lasts

Several factors determine when an AC will need replacement or major repairs. The most influential are maintenance, usage, installation quality, and component reliability.

• Maintenance schedule: regular professional tune-ups, coil cleaning, and filter changes extend life and keep efficiency high.


• Usage and climate: extreme heat, dust, humidity, and long runtimes accelerate wear on compressors and fans.


• Installation and sizing: a correctly sized system installed by a qualified technician reduces strain and energy waste.


• Refrigerant and components: older refrigerants (such as R-22) and worn parts can limit life and raise repair costs.


• Airflow and filtration: dirty filters and restricted airflow cause the system to work harder and wear faster.


• Preventive maintenance: proactive checks catch leaks, corrosion, or coil problems before they cause major damage.

Ongoing maintenance and prompt repairs can meaningfully extend the usable life of an AC and improve energy efficiency over time.

When to consider replacement vs repair

As an AC ages, repair bills can climb and efficiency can degrade. Homeowners typically weigh these signals when deciding whether to replace.

• Frequent breakdowns and costly repairs


• Rising energy bills despite consistent usage


• Insufficient cooling or uneven temperatures across rooms


• Unusual noises, odors, or refrigerant leaks


• Age of the unit: many professionals start evaluating replacement around the 12-year mark for central systems, especially if efficiency has declined

When weighing replacement, consider upfront costs against long-term energy savings, reliability, and potential tax credits or rebates for high-efficiency models.

Summary

In short, a typical central air conditioner lasts around 12–15 years, with variations by type, climate, and care. Regular maintenance can push life toward the longer end, while frequent breakdowns and rising bills may signal time to replace. Consulting a licensed HVAC professional can help determine the right course of action for your specific system and usage.

Which AC brand lasts the longest?

Top 8 Most Reliable AC Brands for Long-Lasting Cooling

• Carrier. Carrier's innovative technology and energy-efficient systems make it a premium choice for reliable air conditioning solutions.
• Trane.
• Lennox.
• Rheem.
• Goodman.
• Daikin.
• American Standard.
• York.

What is the $5000 AC rule?

The "AC 5000 rule" is an HVAC industry guideline that suggests replacing an air conditioner if the result of multiplying its age by the estimated repair cost is over $5,000. If the result is under $5,000, a repair is likely the more cost-effective option for now. This is a simple starting point, and other factors like energy efficiency, repair history, and comfort should also be considered before making a final decision.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the 5K rule: 28sHVAC Guide for HomeownersYouTube · Feb 19, 2025
How to apply the rule

• Multiply: Take the age of your air conditioning unit in years and multiply it by the estimated cost of the repair. 
• Analyze the result:
  • If the total is greater than $5,000: Consider replacing the unit, as it may be more financially sound in the long run. 
  • If the total is less than $5,000: A repair is likely the better option, especially if the system has been reliable up to this point. 

Example

• A 12-year-old unit with a repair estimate of $600: 12×600=$7,20012 cross 600 equals $ 7 comma 20012×600=$7,200. Because this is over $5,000, replacement might be a better long-term investment. 
• A 5-year-old unit with a repair estimate of $500: 5×500=$2,5005 cross 500 equals $ 2 comma 5005×500=$2,500. Because this is under $5,000, a repair is probably the more economical choice. 

Other factors to consider

• Energy efficiency: A new system with a higher SEER rating can lead to significant savings on energy bills. 
• Frequency of repairs: If you are constantly needing repairs, the cost of individual repairs can add up to more than a new system. 
• Refrigerant type: Older units may use refrigerants like R-22, which are becoming more expensive due to being phased out. 
• Warranties: Check for any warranties on new systems or parts before making a decision. 

This video explains how to use the 5K rule for deciding whether to repair or replace your HVAC system: 58sServiceMark Heating Cooling & PlumbingYouTube · Jun 20, 2016

How often should AC be replaced?

You should plan to replace your air conditioner (AC) unit every 10 to 15 years, as this is the average lifespan for most central units. Factors like consistent maintenance, climate, and usage can extend this lifespan to 20 years or more, but replacement may be more economical after the 10-15 year mark due to declining efficiency and rising repair costs. 
Factors that influence AC lifespan

• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including changing filters and getting annual professional check-ups, can significantly extend an AC's life. 
• Climate: Units in hot, humid climates may have shorter lifespans because they have to work harder. 
• Usage: How often the unit is used will affect its wear and tear. 
• Installation: Improper installation or sizing can reduce the unit's lifespan. 

Signs your AC needs replacement

• Age: The unit is 10 to 15 years old or older. 
• Frequent repairs: You are calling for repairs more often, and the cost of repairs is starting to add up. 
• Rising energy bills: Your energy bills are increasing, even though your usage hasn't changed, as older units are less efficient. 
• Poor performance: The unit is not cooling your home evenly, leaving you with hot and cold spots, or it is making unusual noises. 
• System age: An AC unit that still uses R-22 refrigerant (Freon) is likely 15 years old or older, as R-22 production was stopped in 2010. 

Is a 10 year old AC unit old?

Age of the AC: If your unit is around 10 years old and has been well maintained, it may still last a few years, but if it's more than 15 years old, consider replacing it. Energy efficiency: When the costs of running your AC are high, it makes sense to think about replacing it with a modern, energy-efficient model.