Killing with kindness

[thurston]

Here in Ontario Canada, I use my A/C 3-4 months only. Would this make the unit last longer in years of service, or actually shorten its life? The A/C in our cars typically fail early due to lack of use for most of the year and I wonder if this is the same for the home A/C?

[billva]

It will depend on the installation.

I'd say you are good for 5-20 years.

[thurston]

It will depend on the installation.

I'd say you are good for 5-20 years.

Thanks for the insight. Much appreciated.

[subcooled_]

"The A/C in our cars typically fail early due to lack of use for most of the year and I wonder if this is the same for the home A/C?"


The A/C compressor in your car runs when you have the heater on in defrost to prevent premature failure and to dehumidify the air. I live in Minnesota which about the same A/C usage (3-4 months) and most units last 15-20 year. Mine is 24 years old. The only thing I've done to it is a new compressor contactor.

And the A/C in my old car (a '97 Lumina built in Canada:) ), still worked great.