What is the typical lifespan of a residential HVAC system?

The typical lifespan of a residential HVAC system is around 15 to 20 years. This range reflects the average duration that equipment can operate effectively under proper maintenance and optimal operating conditions. Factors such as usage, quality of the system, and regular maintenance can influence longevity.

Systems that fall within this lifespan can show significant drops in efficiency after the 15-year mark, which is why routine service and timely upgrades are often recommended for optimal performance. HVAC systems that exceed this lifespan may still function but often require more frequent repairs and can lead to inefficient energy use, which affects both comfort and energy bills.

Understanding this typical lifespan helps homeowners plan for eventual replacements and make informed decisions on maintenance to maximize their investment in HVAC systems.