No matter which make or model of HVAC system you currently have in your Lowcountry home or business, time will always win in the long run.
During last month’s Prehistoric Comfort Contest promotion we saw our fair share of systems defeated by time, with no preference on make or model.
Like any other electrical/mechanical system in our world we use everyday — like our cars and trucks — heating and air conditioning systems can and will wear out over time.
That said then, just how long can you expect your HVAC system to last here in the Lowcountry?
Different system types and aspects determine the expected lifespan while other important factors contribute to both shortening or lengthening that lifespan. Below is a quick rundown of what you can expect out of your HVAC system here in Charleston.
Traditional HVAC Systems
When we say “traditional” HVAC systems we’re referring to the typical central air conditioning or heat pump units that one might see sitting outside most Lowcountry homes.
These systems normally have an outdoor unit (which conditions the air) connected to an indoor unit that pushes the air around a home’s duct system.
While the technology for these systems has improved vastly over the years (like Trane’s XV20i AC unit ), most systems of this type/setup generally will log about 12 – 15 good years for your home here in Charleston.
As you’ll read below, though, there are things that you can do to reach that 15 year mark and beyond with ease.
Mini-split Ductless HVAC Systems
Mini-split ductless air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular here in the Lowcountry over recent years.
As some homeowners deal with constant flooding under their homes (and the constant duct cleanup and repair), they’ve been opting for mini-split ductless systems, like the M-Series Mitsubishi model to replace their traditional HVAC systems.
That factor, coupled with the flexibility and dual operation (both heating and cooling) make mini-splits a great choice in the Lowcountry, but how long will they last?
Under most normal operating situations, you can expect a lifespan of 15-20 years for most ductless mini-split models.
Geothermal HVAC Systems
Another type of system that’s growing in popularity here in Charleston are geothermal heating and cooling systems.
Using the ground’s naturally steady temperature (about 55-77 degrees Fahrenheit), geothermal heat pumps can both cool your home in the summer (pumping heat in your home underground) and heat it in the winter (pumping heat up into your home from the ground).
These systems are highly efficient, with monthly energy bills being drastically reduced (up to 70% in some cases).
On top of that, when you install a geothermal HVAC system you’ll be getting more than your money’s worth as far as life expectancy, with the above ground components lasting up to 25 years and the below ground components lasting up to 100 years.
System Operation & Maintenance
As mentioned earlier, HVAC systems aren’t any different than any other mechanical system in our world — they have a definitive lifespan of good use.
However, having your system properly maintained and serviced throughout that lifespan can and will ultimately extend that particular lifespan.
If you’re not sure how old your Lowcountry HVAC system might be or want to talk about a possible replacement – be sure to give a local, experienced heating and air company a call. They’ll be able to estimate how much time you’ve got left on your system and give you the best options for updating your system this year.
