If you run a business, you likely rely on commercial air conditioning. The next time an HVAC contractor comes for a maintenance visit, ask them when you will need to replace your system. After assessing the system’s condition, they will address its expected life span. While a new unit may require a significant upfront expense, you can’t afford to have the old one break down before it’s replaced. Here are a few features to think about when estimating the remainder of an AC system’s service life.

3 Factors HVAC Contractors Use to Determine Equipment Longevity

1. Quality of Installation

If it isn’t installed properly, even the best AC equipment will fail long before it should. Whether the problem is related to loose connections or an improper fitting, the added strain of poor installation will gradually wear down the components. If you hired a less-than-reliable HVAC contractor, you might have reason to worry.

2. System Age

Every commercial air conditioning system will eventually stop working—no matter how expensive it was originally. Most brands come with a 20-year life span, so if your unit is inching toward the 15-year mark, consult an HVAC contractor. When aging systems lose their efficiency, repairs become increasingly common. Anything between 15 and 20 years old is due for replacement.

3. Preventative Maintenance History

Air conditioners that make it past 15 to 20 years do so because of regular preventative maintenance. Regular inspections and maintenance appointments are the surest way to add years to your equipment’s service life. While you want your air conditioner to last as long as possible, pushing it past its limits is not a sound strategy. Once it fails, you’ll have to scramble to find a replacement. It’s always better to know when the end is near and be prepared to move forward.

If you’re not sure whether it’s time to replace your commercial air conditioner in Honolulu, HI, talk to the HVAC contractors at Cornerstone Air Conditioning. They make it a priority to stay up-to-date on all the newest HVAC technology, and they’ll give you an honest answer as to how long your system has left. Call them at (808) 847-3639 to schedule commercial air conditioning service and learn more about the company on their website.