How Long Do Outdoor AC Units Last in Toston, MT?

Premier Systems
July 25, 2025
Water Heater and Heating Repair Services in Toston, MT

HVAC systems are expensive appliances that require extensive planning before installation. Once you’ve purchased and installed a new one, you might worry about when you’ll have to strategize the next replacement service. How long do outdoor AC units last?

As your trusted provider of AC services in Toston, MT, Premier Systems breaks down the answer to that question. We’ll also explain how you can make your air conditioner last longer. 


The Average Lifespan of an Air Conditioning Unit

Central air conditioning equipment can last up to 20 years on average. An outdoor unit might have a slightly shorter service life, since it remains exposed to the elements year-round. However, you should generally be able to keep the same equipment set for the same stretch, more or less.

How long do outdoor AC units last according to various factors and habits? You might be surprised at the simple changes you can make to prolong its service life. 


How Long Do Outdoor AC Units Last in Toston, Montana?

Now that you know the average air conditioner lifespan, let’s examine the factors that may determine the outdoor unit’s performance and longevity. Many property owners have more control than they think as far as preserving this external equipment. 

Ask yourself the following questions to determine the unit's probable lifespan. 


What’s the Weather Like?

Residents of Toston, Montana, are blessed with mild summers where temperatures rarely rise above the mid-80s. That means you might not excessively use your HVAC system, unless you like to make your building as chilly as possible. However, the frigid winters can negatively impact the outdoor unit’s lifespan.


How long do outdoor AC units last in Toston, Montana? If you don’t protect yours from ice and snow buildup, you can take a few years off your equipment’s service life. 


How Do You Use Your System?

You probably know that your usage habits directly impact energy efficiency and consumption. Fortunately, Montanans enjoy easy, breezy summers with low cooling demands. So, you’re likely to prolong your system’s performance for several years, especially compared to states with extreme heat and humidity.

 

Do You Keep to a Maintenance Routine?

A consistent, comprehensive maintenance schedule is essential for all heating and cooling equipment, regardless of location. Ideally, property owners should perform basic maintenance each quarter. Things like filter changes, tidying up around the outdoor unit, and checking your thermostat performance go a long way in protecting the external equipment. 


You also need annual maintenance from an HVAC technician in the spring. The technician’s efforts go deeper into the system’s inner workings, cleaning, adjusting, and lubricating delicate internal components. 


Does Your Outdoor Unit Have Protection?

How do you shield your outer HVAC equipment from the elements? Rain, snow, and ice can accelerate the unit replacement timeframe. If you have trees overshadowing the unit, they may drop tree nuts, twigs, and leaves inside it. 



You can purchase outdoor covers that give your system shade and protection from organic debris. Note that you shouldn’t wrap your unit in tight-fitting covers. However, overhanging shelters can offer protection without trapping moisture. 


Did You Install Quality Equipment?

How long do outdoor AC units last? Consider the brand and model you chose for your home or business.

Some manufacturers make higher quality equipment, built to last decades. Others produce mid or low-tier options that won’t weather the elements as well. That’s why investing in top-notch equipment usually pays off in the long term. 


Protecting Your Air Conditioner’s Service Life

So, what can you do to make your outdoor air conditioning unit last longer? We have a few helpful suggestions:

  1. Perform quarterly self-maintenance. Change your air filters, clean up around the unit, and remove debris that gets wedged in its coverings.
  2. Schedule annual maintenance services. Each spring, have an HVAC technician visit your property to tune up the indoor and outdoor equipment.
  3. Set up a structured covering to keep your unit dry and shield it from debris. You can find waterproof canvas awnings at home improvement stores that should do the job. 

Choose quality, well-sized equipment. An under- or oversized unit will have a shorter lifespan as it works too hard.

Water Heater System Repair Experts in Toston, MT

The Secret to a Long-Lived HVAC System: Premier Systems Installs, Repairs, and Maintains Air Conditioners in Toston, Montana

How long do outdoor AC units last? When you implement the benefits of regular AC cleaning and other maintenance work, you can significantly prolong the external equipment’s service life. Let Premier Systems help you out with top-notch installations, dependable repairs, and comprehensive maintenance services in Toston, Montana. 



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