How Long Does “Freon” Last in a Window Air Conditioner?

What is Freon?

The name “Freon” applies to any type of refrigerant used in air conditioning and cooling systems, not just “Freon” (which is the brand name for the refrigerants R-12, R-13B1, R-22, R-410A, R-502, and R-503 made by The Chemours Company). Whether it’s R-22, R-410A (which is the current refrigerant used in home systems), or any other refrigerant, they don’t typically degrade over time.

Refrigerant’s Affect on the Unit’s Lifespan

While refrigerant itself doesn’t wear out, it can still be affected by external factors such as leaks or contamination. If there is a leak in the system, the refrigerant will gradually escape, causing the air conditioner’s cooling performance to decline. If you notice your window air conditioner is not cooling as well as it used to or if it’s taking longer to cool the room, it could be a sign of a leak. Causes of leaks include manufacturing defects, poor installation, corrosion, environmental conditions, or physical damage. Additionally, if the system is poorly maintained or mishandled, contaminants might get introduced into the refrigerant, which can hurt the system’s efficiency and lifespan.

If you suspect a leak or contamination, you should always have a professional HVAC technician take a look at your air conditioner to find the source of the leak, fix it, and recharge the system with the appropriate amount of refrigerant.

If there are no refrigerant leaks and the air conditioning system is well-maintained, the refrigerant itself is not typically a limiting factor in the lifespan of the system. Refrigerant doesn’t degrade over time; it circulates through the system in a closed loop, absorbing and releasing heat to provide cooling.

What Really Affects the Lifespan of an Air Conditioner

The main things that influence the lifespan of an air conditioning system, whether it’s a window unit, central HVAC system, or a ductless mini-split, are the mechanical components, electrical components, and wear and tear of the system. A well-maintained window air conditioner can last anywhere from 8 to 15 years or even longer, depending on the following:

• Quality of the Unit: Higher-quality units with better components tend to have a longer lifespan.
• Usage: How often you use the air conditioner can affect its longevity. Units used only seasonally may last longer than those used continuously.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing air filters, cleaning the coils, and ensuring proper ventilation, can significantly extend the lifespan of the unit.
• Environmental Conditions: The climate and environment in which the unit operates can impact its lifespan. For example, units exposed to salty air or extreme humidity might experience more wear and tear.
• Installation: Proper installation can play a role in the unit’s longevity. If it’s installed incorrectly or in a location that doesn’t provide good airflow, it could lead to premature failure.
• Brand and Model: The reputation of the manufacturer and the specific model of the air conditioner can affect how long it lasts. Some brands and models are known for their durability.
• Maintenance History: If the unit has been well-maintained throughout its life, it’s more likely to last longer.

To maximize the lifespan of your AC unit, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations and have it professionally serviced when needed. Regularly cleaning or replacing filters, keeping the coils clean, and ensuring proper ventilation around the unit can go a long way in extending its operational life. By the way, the same things that influence the lifespan of a window AC unit also apply to central HVAC systems and ductless mini-split systems.