When it comes to your home's air conditioner, the chances are that you don't give it much thought unless it is need of repair or replacement. However, it's important to note that your air conditioner is an integral part of your home. In much of the country, an air conditioner is a must for keeping the home comfortable during the hotter months of the year. 

In fact, in some areas, not having a working air conditioner can be dangerous when temperatures begin to rise. This is why it's important to know a few key things about your home's air conditioning system.

1. They Don't Last Forever

The first thing that you should be aware of is that air conditioners don't last forever. Eventually, your home's system will need to be replaced. The average lifespan of a central air conditioner is between 15 and 20 years. It's important to know how old your air conditioner is and to start planning for replacement once it is getting toward the end of its typical lifespan. While proper maintenance can extend the life of your system, eventually you will need a new one.

2. Regular Maintenance Is Necessary

It's also important to note that regular maintenance is also necessary for your home's air conditioner. Proper maintenance will ensure that your air conditioner runs for as long as possible and as efficiently as possible. While replacing filters is important, there is more to maintenance than just that. Air conditioning systems need to be cleaned and expected at least once a year if not more often. 

There are a variety of professionals who offer residential ac services and that are able to see to your air conditioner's maintenance needs. Annual maintenance services provided by a professional cost around $100 and can save you a lot of money in the long run.

3. Signs of Trouble

When it comes to air conditioners, there are a few tell-tale signs to look out for that indicate that something may be wrong with your system. A few signs of trouble include hearing strange noises coming from your air conditioner, a buildup of moisture, strange smells coming out of the unit, uneven cooling, and limited airflow. High energy bills are also a major indicator that something is wrong with your system. If your energy bill has risen significantly, your air conditioner may need repair or replacement.

When it comes to your home's air conditioner, there are a few things that you should be aware of. Air conditioners don't last forever and typically need to be replaced after 15 to 20 years. Regular maintenance is also a necessity. There are also a few signs to look out for that indicate that your system needs repair or replacement.