Central Air Conditioners

A central heat pump has a similar installation process as a central air conditioner, the only difference being some communication wiring  to allow for both heating and cooling settings:

• The AC coil (indoor unit) is installed on top of your existing furnace
• The compressor (outdoor unit) is installed somewhere outside your home (usually as close as possible to the location of the indoor unit)
• The line set (copper tubing that holds the refrigerant) is connected to both the coil and the compressor
• Power wires are run from your breaker panel to your outdoor unit
• Communication wires are run from your thermostat to your indoor unit (depending on if you have an existing blower fan or furnace)

The lifespan of a central air conditioner is typically 8-15 years, depending on a multitude of factors:

Proper sizing 

An oversized or undersized central AC unit can lower the lifespan of your compressor by causing it undue stress.

Proper Installation

Proper installation is the most important factor in the lifespan of a central AC unit. Ensure the HVAC company you hire is licensed and qualified to install your central AC.

Equipment Functionality

This goes without saying, but the more complex your central AC unit, the more often it will break down and need repairing/ replacing. Many central AC units have complex features that are unnecessary for the Vancouver climate, so it's often best to opt for a simple AC unit.

Proper Maintenance Schedule

Proper maintenance will allow any piece of mechanical equipment to last longer. You should expect bi-annual maintenance for your central AC unit to increase longevity. Regular filter changes and cleaning/servicing are a must for an central AC owner.

Central air conditioner brands can vary greatly and it can be a daunting task to pick which brand to actually go with. 

The truth is: The functionality is more or less the same across all central AC equipment.

Central air conditioner brands usually have several different units they sell and the more simplistic the equipment, the less downtime you'll experience. When you opt for higher-efficiency equipment, you're trading reliability for energy savings, and vice versa.

Central air conditioners operate their best with frequent maintenance and servicing. You should expect to clean the outdoor coil of your AC unit every 6 months. 

You should also expect to replace your air filter once every 6 months as well, this allows for better airflow and for your blower motor to last longer.