Life Expectancy of Commercial HVAC Equipment

As a commercial property owner or business owner, your HVAC system is one thing that needs constant care and attention. It is vital that your commercial HVAC equipment is running properly at all times. Whether you’re trying to keep your data systems cooled or your tenants comfortable, you must ensure the system is in its tip-top condition.

While you may take care of maintenance, you might also be considering how long the system will last. When was the last time it was replaced? How many years can you expect to get out of your HVAC system? These are important questions to keep in mind when you own a business. Here’s a look at the factors that play a role in the commercial HVAC equipment lifespan.

Ask Yourself

  • How big is your unit?
    The size of the commercial HVAC equipment is a factor in its life expectancy. This can contribute to potential issues with your system as bigger units have more parts.
  • Does it get regular maintenance?
    Preventative maintenance is crucial to a long-lasting HVAC unit. Seasonal routine maintenance will play a significant part in the durability of the unit.
  • When is the last time you changed the filters?
    If you do not routinely change the filters on your HVAC system, you could shorten the lifespan. Change your filters once a month or follow the manufacturer’s suggestion on the filter type that should be used.
  • How well was the unit installed?
    Another major factor that contributes to lifespan is installation. Did the commercial HVAC equipment installer know what they were doing? Unfortunately, the answer is sometimes no and it can shorten the usefulness of your unit.
  • Is the unit the correct size?
    You have to consider if the unit is the correct size for the building. If a unit is too small to properly take care of your business or location, it can work harder than it has to. The inefficiency of your system can lead to earlier breakdown and replacement.
  • How old is your HVAC System?
    If you are a new business owner or you are buying a new property location, the age of the unit is part of the process. You should know how old the original unit is, so you can gauge how long it will last until it needs replacing.
  • When was the last time the ductwork was inspected?
    Your ductwork system can also play a role in longevity. In addition to costing money, leaks in the ductwork can lead to bad air quality, depressurization, and lowered comfort levels for your building’s occupants. You can ensure better air quality by properly inspecting and sealing ductwork.

How Long Should It Last?

Depending on the factors above, your commercial HVAC equipment can last up to 15 years. If you are taking proper care of the unit, it can even outlast the maximum years allotted. Items such as your rooftop or central air typically last up to 15 years. Other items such as a water heater unit can last up to 14 years. A furnace system that is taken care of can last around 18 years before it needs replacing.

The key to increasing the lifespan of your HVAC system is to keep your equipment properly maintained and repaired. Routine maintenance can make your HVAC system last much longer, avoid lost sales, and increase employee productivity. Additionally, before you make the decision to buy a property, make sure that you have a professional complete a commercial HVAC system inspection.

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