How Long Does An HVAC Unit Last In North Carolina?

How Long Does an HVAC System Last in North Carolina?

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North Carolina sees its fair share of extreme weather. A reliable HVAC system isn’t just a convenience — it’s a necessity.

During the chilly winters, temperatures frequently dip below freezing overnight, so a heating system is crucial to keep your home warm. During our sweltering summers, temperatures can soar into the high 90s, making your living space uncomfortable if your AC isn’t up to par.

If you’ve depended on your HVAC system for a long time, you may be wondering how long you have before you need to replace it. Comfort First Heating & Cooling has the answers you need to make the best decision for your comfort and budget.

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Typical HVAC Service Life

The lifespan of an HVAC system varies depending on factors like equipment quality, frequency of use, and how often the unit is maintained.

Here’s how long you can expect the most common HVAC systems to last:

  • Central air conditioners: 10 to 15 years
  • Gas furnaces: 15 to 20 years
  • Electric furnaces: 20 to 30 years
  • Oil furnaces: 20 to 25 years
  • Heat pumps: 10 to 15 years
  • Ductless mini-splits: 15 to 20 years

Signs You Need HVAC Replacement Instead of Repair

HVAC repair is usually better if you have a relatively newer unit or need minor repairs. However, HVAC replacement is more cost-effective when:

  • Your system is nearing the end of its lifespan: If your unit is over 10 years old, it’ll be more prone to issues and run less efficiently.
  • Your HVAC unit is out of warranty: New HVAC units often have parts warranties from the manufacturer, and many HVAC companies also offer labor warranties. Warranties protect your investment and make repair costs more manageable.
  • Your HVAC system needs frequent repairs: Constant repairs are a sign of recurring issues that may not be fully resolved without replacing essential but expensive parts.
  • Your system needs repairs that cost over 50% of its value: You’re better off investing your money in the cost of a new system instead of trying to restore your old unit.
  • Your HVAC unit drives up your utility bills: Rising utility costs over time despite consistent usage means your HVAC isn’t as efficient as it used to be. It’s also far less efficient than modern units.
  • Your HVAC system can’t keep your home comfortable: Hot and cold spots in your home suggest that your HVAC system can’t distribute air evenly, which affects your overall comfort.
  • Your system is undersized or oversized for your home: An HVAC system that’s too large will cycle air too quickly and cause short-cycling. Undersized units will struggle to maintain your desired temperature. Both raise your utility bills and accelerate wear and tear.

Maximize Your HVAC’s Lifespan with Preventative Maintenance

Preventative HVAC maintenance is one of the most important investments in your comfort system. You don’t want to be caught without heat or AC, so routine tune-ups will:

  • Increase the lifespan of your unit
  • Improve system reliability
  • Lower repair and utility costs
  • Maximize energy efficiency

Comfort First’s Equipment Protection Agreement provides peace of mind to our customers by simplifying the process of regular heating and cooling maintenance.

Members receive priority scheduling, 15% off repairs, discounted diagnostic fees, and no overtime charges.

Request HVAC Service with Comfort First

Our highly skilled technicians are the trusted experts in HVAC services throughout North Carolina. Backed by over 50 years of experience, we’re proud of our legacy of technical expertise and excellent customer service.

Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We proudly offer:

  • 24/7 emergency HVAC repairs
  • Service for all brands
  • Free estimates on replacements
  • Financing options on approved credit
  • Quality installation procedures
  • HVAC installation guarantees

We’re on a mission to create customers for life with people you can count on.

Request HVAC replacement in the Triangle, the Triad, Charlotte, Jacksonville, or the Outer Banks.

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What Our Clients Are Saying

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Excellent all-around generator install experience; the initial call, the sales meeting, the installation guys, the communication, the pricing... everything was/is perfect, I will highly recommend and use Comfort First again without hesitation.

Wayne Braren

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Had these folks install a couple of whole home dehumidifiers for me. They were prompt, courteous, professional, and efficient. During the installation, several deficiencies were identified from the previous installers of the existing HVAC equipment and rather than step back or charge extra, they rolled up their sleeves and took care of the problems (that they…

William Dunford

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Absolutely AWESOME! These guys knew what they were doing, had a plan, and executed it. The customer’s satisfaction was always paramount to any issues that arose. It was evident that "Customer First" is an attitude that stretches from the great guys/gals on the install crews, to those in Admin, and those at the TOP. Absolutely would…

Albert Renaud

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Extremely efficient and professional. Took the time to walk me through the process and to answer questions. I would highly recommend Comfort First Heating and Cooling.

Betty Lovelace

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What a great experience. Each and everyone that we had come out to our home from AJ who helped us pick out the system that was best for our home to the installers the spent almost a whole day at our home putting the system in were professional and courteous! We will definitely refer anyone we…

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