5 Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your HVAC System
Your HVAC system isn’t like any other appliance that you plop on your kitchen counter and use daily without much thought or consideration. It’s a long-term investment in your comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency. As a major system in your Marana home, it needs a little care to keep performing its best year after year.
The good news? A little bit of attention can go a long way toward preventing those inconvenient—and expensive—breakdowns. Think of it like giving your car an oil change or your houseplants a good watering. With just a few simple habits, you can help your system run smoother, last longer, and save money in the process.
In this guide, Hamstra Heating & Cooling will cover the “why’s” behind these five practical tips for extending the lifespan of your HVAC system:
- Stick to a Regular Maintenance Schedule
- Replace Air Filters Regularly
- Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
- Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
- Address Repairs Promptly
Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your HVAC System
On average, a new HVAC system lasts 15–20 years with proper care. Air conditioners commonly last around 15 years in Arizona while heat pumps may run closer to 12–15 years due to heavier, year-round use. Furnaces on the other hand, can fair better in the Grand Canyon State due to less intensive usage; often reaching 20+ years.
So, how do you ensure your heating and cooling system makes it to the high end of the expected lifespan, or even a little past it? Our team of HVAC contractors put together these common tips to keeping your system running smoothly for longer.
Stick to a Regular Maintenance Schedule
One of the easiest ways to extend your HVAC lifespan is by scheduling professional maintenance twice a year—once in the spring for cooling, and once in the fall for heating. Routine inspections catch small issues before they escalate, like worn belts, loose connections, or refrigerant leaks.
During maintenance, a Hamstra Heating & Cooling technician will also clean vital components such as coils, condensate drains, and blower assemblies. Keeping these parts clean and functional reduces strain on the system and improves efficiency, helping it last closer to that 20-year mark.
Pro tip: Ask your Hamstra contractor about our maintenance plan, the Choice Service Club. Being a member of our Choice Service Club helps protect you from breakdowns and enjoy the possibility of a longer HVAC service life.
Replace Air Filters Regularly
Clogged or dirty filters are one of the leading causes of premature HVAC wear. When airflow is blocked, your system has to work harder, which can shorten its lifespan. A clean filter not only protects your system but also improves indoor air quality. It’s a win-win for both your HVAC lifespan and your health!
Most standard filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, depending on your household. If you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty environment, monthly replacement may be necessary.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear and Protected
Your outdoor condenser unit faces more than just leaves and grass clippings—it takes the full brunt of Tucson’s desert climate. During monsoon season, high winds can blow debris against the unit, while lightning strikes and power surges pose electrical risks. The dry desert air brings its own challenges, with dust and dirt easily infiltrating the coils and restricting airflow. Even local wildlife, like snakes or rodents, can seek shelter inside the unit, causing damage or blockages.
To extend your HVAC system’s lifespan:
- Keep at least two feet of clearance around the outdoor unit.
- Trim nearby shrubs or trees.
- Gently rinse away dust and debris with a garden hose (never a pressure washer).
- Consider installing a surge protector or protective screen for added defense.
Keeping your condenser clear and protected ensures efficient performance and helps your system withstand Arizona’s unique outdoor challenges.
Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
How you use your HVAC system has just as much impact on lifespan as maintenance. Constantly running your system at extreme temperatures forces it to work harder and wear out faster.
A programmable or smart thermostat helps regulate usage by automatically adjusting temperatures when you’re away or asleep. Even a small reduction in runtime can add years to your HVAC system’s life while lowering utility bills.
Example: Set your thermostat 7–10 degrees higher in summer or lower in winter when you’re not home. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates this can save up to 10% annually on heating and cooling costs while reducing wear and tear.
Address Repairs Promptly
It’s tempting to ignore small issues—like unusual noises, weak airflow, or inconsistent temperatures—but these are often early warning signs of bigger problems. It’s even more tempting to ignore recommendations for repair or replacement of worn parts from your Hamstra HVAC contractor during a maintenance visit.
However, delaying repairs forces your system to operate inefficiently, which shortens its lifespan and increases the risk of sudden breakdowns.
Whether it’s a faulty capacitor, low refrigerant, or a failing blower motor, catching and repairing problems early is key to preserving your HVAC system’s longevity.
Extend Your HVAC Lifespan With Hamstra
Your HVAC system is one of the largest investments in your Marana home, and protecting that investment should be a priority. By keeping up with maintenance, changing filters, clearing the outdoor unit, using smart thermostat settings, and handling repairs promptly, you can maximize your HVAC lifespan and enjoy reliable comfort for decades.
Ready to get the most out of your system? Schedule your next maintenance visit today and take the first step toward a longer-lasting, more efficient HVAC system. Call Hamstra Heating & Cooling at 520-629-9833 or request service online.