How Long Does a Commercial HVAC System Last On Average?

An HVAC system is a significant investment, and it’s essential to consider all the costs associated with it when deciding if you want to invest in a replacement. If you’re considering replacing your HVAC system, read this article to learn how long a typical commercial HVAC system lasts and whether you need to replace it.

How Long Can You Expect Your Commercial HVAC System to Last?

The average lifespan of a commercial HVAC system is usually 15 to 20 years, primarily based on the quality of its construction and how well it is maintained.

One factor that may be calculated into the lifespan of a commercial HVAC system is the individual components of the HVAC system, each having its own life span. For example, an air conditioner may have a 15 to 20 years lifespan, while a heat pump may only have 15 years. 

Other Factors That Could Affect the Lifespan of a Commercial HVAC System

How long an HVAC system lasts can also depend on other factors, such as:

• The impact of weather events on the HVAC equipment located outside, and 
• Not providing routine maintenance on the equipment. 

Weather Conditions and Indoor Pollutants

Weather conditions can impact the lifespan of your HVAC system. For example, in a predominantly hot climate, the air conditioner works overtime to cool the building while the furnace hardly operates. As a result, the wear and tear on the air conditioner may shorten it’s lifespan. 

Indoor pollutants, such as chemicals emitted from cleaning supplies or outgassing from newly installed materials, such as carpets or wooden structures, may also shorten the lifespan of indoor coils, especially copper coils.

The Lack of Routine Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is essential to expanding the lifespan of your commercial HVAC system. Not only will it help expand the lifespan, but it will also save you from frequent repair costs. 

Routine maintenance would inspect for clogged filters, bad thermostats, or holes in the ductwork. These issues could overexert your equipment if left too long to be repaired, causing a breakdown. Routine maintenance resolves these types of issues before more significant problems occur.

Early Warning Signs that Might Be Telling You It Needs to be Replaced

• Unusual noises or odors
• You have had your equipment for more than 15 or 20 years.
• Utility bills have risen without reason.
• Moisture on walls or windows or rust on pipes and appliances
• Unexplained variations in temperature in a room or space

Ensure Your Commercial HVAC System is Operating Consistently

If you haven’t seen signs that you need a replacement or have had your equipment for less than 15 years, you may not have to invest in replacing your HVAC system just yet. However, making sure you have the equipment routinely inspected and maintained will help put off that investment for some time. 

If you would like to start a regular maintenance program for your commercial HVAC system, we can help. We offer a wide range of commercial facilities services, including HVAC services. Contact us to learn how we can help.