What’s the Average Lifespan of a Central AC Unit?

Most central AC units run reliably for about 10 to 15 years. Take good care of yours, and it could last closer to 20. Skip maintenance or put it through harsh conditions—like Calgary’s sudden heatwaves and dusty air—and it could be struggling in under 10.

The truth? Your AC’s lifespan isn’t just a number; it depends on how you use it, how it was installed, and how well it’s maintained.

Here’s what really makes the difference:

• • Regular Maintenance: Like a car, your AC needs yearly check-ups—cleaning filters, topping refrigerant, checking for wear. Skip those, and you’ll pay for it later.

  • How Often You Run It: Running it 24/7 in July and August puts a lot of miles on it fast.

  • Installation Quality: Even the best unit will fail early if it wasn’t installed right. (Our COR-certified techs see this all the time when replacing DIY jobs gone wrong.)

  • Calgary’s Climate: Dry air and dust? They clog filters quicker than you think. Extreme swings from spring to summer? That stresses the system.

  • The Unit Itself: Higher-quality, high-efficiency models generally last longer and save you on power bills.

If your AC is getting up there in age, here’s what to watch for:

• • Constant Repairs: Calling every summer for fixes? It’s probably time.

  • Weak Cooling: If it’s running but can’t keep up, efficiency’s slipping.

  • Spiking Energy Bills: An older AC works harder (and costs you more) to cool the same space.

  • Strange Noises: Grinding, rattling, banging—none of these are “normal sounds.”

  • It’s Over 10–15 Years Old: Even a reliable old unit won’t last forever.

If this sounds like your situation, it’s worth having us take a look. We’ll give you an honest opinion—repair or replace—and help you avoid wasting money on a dying system.

Want to keep your unit humming along? Here’s what helps:

• • Book annual maintenance with a pro (it’s cheaper than surprise repairs).

  • Swap out filters every 1–3 months, especially in summer.

  • Keep debris away from the outdoor unit—no leaves, no grass clippings.

  • Use a programmable thermostat to give it breaks while you’re out.

  • Don’t ignore small issues—they turn into big ones fast.

We even offer maintenance plans so you don’t have to think about it—we’ll handle scheduling and check-ups for you.

If your AC is more than a decade old and giving you grief, it may be smarter (and cheaper long-term) to replace it. Newer models are far more energy-efficient, which means lower bills and better comfort. Plus, with Wiehler handling the install, you’ll know it’s done right the first time.

We’ve been family-owned and operated since 1979. Marty Wiehler started this company over 40 years ago, and now his sons, John and Eric, run it with the same values. Over 800 5-star reviews later, we’re still doing what we do best: keeping Calgary homes comfortable.

Whether you need a tune-up, a repair, or a brand-new AC, we’ve got your back.