What shortens the life of an air conditioner?

• <div><p>While most air conditioners can last between 10 and 20 years, they will only last this long (or longer) if properly taken care of. Routine maintenance and inspections help keep your AC unit running in tip-top shape but understanding what factors will decrease its lifespan will also help keep your unit running cool.</p><p>Some things that shorten your AC’s lifespan include:</p><ul><li><p>Extreme outdoor conditions, like high humidity or extensive salt spray </p></li><li><p>Improper installation</p></li><li><p>Extended run times, either by the unit being too small or the thermostat setting too low</p></li><li><p>Not performing required maintenance</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Q: Why is my house AC constantly running?

• <div><p>If your AC runs constantly, it could be due to a number of things, including a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/why-my-thermostat-acting-weird.htm">faulty thermostat</a>, incorrect temperature settings, or broken equipment. Alternatively, you might have an airflow problem (for example, blocked vents or leaky ductwork). Either way, an HVAC pro can identify the specific problem and fix it for you.</p></div>

Q: Can I just replace my outside AC unit?

• <div><p>No, it's not advisable to only <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/can-you-replace-part-your-air-conditioner.htm">replace the outside AC unit</a> connected to your system. AC units are designed to work as a cohesive system, and older units work differently than newer units. Therefore, replacing only one component can lead to incompatibilities that affect the system&rsquo;s performance. Replacing one component can void your warranty, costing you money for repairs.</p></div>

Q: Will turning off AC stop it from leaking water?

• <div><p>Turning off your AC may temporarily stop your unit from leaking water unless the leak is from a thawing coil that continues to thaw after the system is shut off. Regardless, it helps to discontinue use of the unit if it has a leak in order to figure out what&rsquo;s causing the issue. </p></div>

Q: What is the rule of thumb for return duct sizing?

• <div><p>The standard rule for return duct sizing is that the return vent should be the same size or larger than the supply vent. This will ensure balanced airflow in your home and reduce strain on your HVAC system.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Heating And Air Conditioning Service pros in Atlantic, IA

*The Angi rating for Heating And Air Conditioning Service companies in Atlantic, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Heating And Air Conditioning Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Heating And Air Conditioning Service companies in Atlantic, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Heating And Air Conditioning Service needs.

Last update on November 10, 2025

Reviewed in December 2021
We are very pleased with the work he did. He replaced an old dryer venting line that had completely broken down and was putting a lot of lint out into the inside of our home. It so nice to run the dryer now and not have all that hot moist air and lint going everywhere. Thanks Van
Handyvan
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Reviewed in June 2020
Really nice young man and did what he said he would do. Maybe a bit on the high priced side but they got AC fixed the same day.
Ozark Heating and Cooling
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Reviewed in May 2018
A home we had bought needed radon mitigation to reduce the radon level below the EPA recommended 4 pCi/L level. Being an older home which had been extensively added onto by previous owners, the construction which included approx. 1/3 over a small basement, 1/3 over two separate areas of concrete...
Neighbors Heating Cooling Plumbing & Geothermal
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Reviewed in August 2016
I decided to make the purchase though I did not need all of the equipment. The TRITON 9000 RS Generator/Compressor/Welder machine was what I really had my eye on. I had never seen a machine with so many functions before. The 10,000 gas generator is the machine I needed the most, but the other...
AMP-American Multi-Products
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Reviewed in July 2013
I had gone without water for two weeks, because the plumbers' businesses in my county did not come when they promised, nor would they return calls, nor say why they didn't want the job, nor give any other professional response. But Mike came within hours of my call, from the next county over. ...
Mike's Plumbing and Pump Service
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Reviewed in June 2013
Mike arrived right on time and got started after introductions. He did a thorough job inspecting both buildings for a very reasonable price. He climbed up on the roofs of both inspected gutter chimneys, then around both foundations. Then inside checking both furnaces and AC units. Windows,...
The BrickKicker
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Reviewed in February 2012
Kevin and Nate first pre-plumbed our drains and well runs before the concrete floor was poured and as soon as the inside was ready for the rough in they came back and worked with us on the locations of everything and talked us through what they would be doing and when. We felt totally...
City Plumbing
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Reviewed in February 2009
Mark the manager and Dave the Mechanic are wonders. They are two honest men. "Only what you need...at a price guaranteed," isn't just a sales come-on. They live by that motto. Dave said, "I've had some success draining/flushing heater cores before. I can't be sure of the results unless I try....
EXHAUST PROS
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Find Heating and air conditioning pros in Atlantic

WireOne

WireOne

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 95% of Angi customers

37 local quotes requested

When you are looking for professional top level electrical services, WireOne is here standing by to help. Our team of experts has the experience and training to handle all of your electrical needs from diagnosis to repairs. Our dedication to our customers is apparent in every job we take, as we always make sure all of your worries and concerns are covered. We back this up with a true written 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Call your trusted electrician today if you're in need of any electrical services handled with proficiency and care 24 hours a day seven days a week.

"Was able to start project the same day but wasnâ t able to finish same day."

Holly L on April 2022

"Was able to start project the same day but wasnâ t able to finish same day."

Holly L on April 2022

Jimenez Service

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Jimenez Service

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

365 local quotes requested

Jimenez Services LLC offers you a wide variety of services with the highest quality, price and guarantee. We have the experience and dedication to get the job done right! Specializing in Handyman Services , painting services and hauling ; We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won't leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Call or click for your FREE estimate today!

"He went above and beyond. Very professional and very polite. I highly recommend his services. We even hired him for another project. That's how much we liked his work"

Chris C on September 2025

"He went above and beyond. Very professional and very polite. I highly recommend his services. We even hired him for another project. That's how much we liked his work"

Additional DBA - Krell Industries. Family owned & operated. Nationwide service.

We are a small business with 7 employees. We install and repair HVAC equipment, plumbing, and septic systems for new construction and existing homes. Our billing cycle is net 30 and we accept checks or cash. We are open 7:30 to 5:00 M-F and 7:30 to 12:00 on Saturday. We are also available for emergency situations 24 hours a day. Services may not be limited to the counties selected depending on the location and situation.

"The guys responded quickly and came out to jet our sewer lines and unclog everything. They fit us in on a busy day and got the job done efficiently and effectively!"

Thomas S on January 2025

"The guys responded quickly and came out to jet our sewer lines and unclog everything. They fit us in on a busy day and got the job done efficiently and effectively!"

Thomas S on January 2025

Kenco Construction LLC

No reviews yet

Kenco Construction LLC

No reviews yet

42 years of experience

Ken Co Construction is a women owned construction service with 30 years of experience. We offer quality services that will stand the test of time, including new construction and remodeling work for both residential and commercial structures. We are also experienced working with air conditioning, electrical, plumbing and general contracting projects. At Ken Co, we are not only concerned with budgets and schedules; we also take pride in our superior craftsmanship, commitment to excellence and dedication to customer satisfaction. US Federal Contractor Registration DUNS: 030713116 CAGE: 643P6 Woman Owned Small Business Current in CCR and ORCA 236115 - New Single-Family Housing Construction (except Operative Builders) 236116 - New Multifamily Housing Construction (except Operative Builders) 236117 - New Housing Operative Builders 236118 - Residential Remodelers 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors 238220 - Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors

Showing 1-10 of 40

Heating and Air Conditioning questions, answered by experts

If your AC runs constantly, it could be due to a number of things, including a faulty thermostat, incorrect temperature settings, or broken equipment. Alternatively, you might have an airflow problem (for example, blocked vents or leaky ductwork). Either way, an HVAC pro can identify the specific problem and fix it for you.

No, it's not advisable to only replace the outside AC unit connected to your system. AC units are designed to work as a cohesive system, and older units work differently than newer units. Therefore, replacing only one component can lead to incompatibilities that affect the system’s performance. Replacing one component can void your warranty, costing you money for repairs.

Turning off your AC may temporarily stop your unit from leaking water unless the leak is from a thawing coil that continues to thaw after the system is shut off. Regardless, it helps to discontinue use of the unit if it has a leak in order to figure out what’s causing the issue.

While most air conditioners can last between 10 and 20 years, they will only last this long (or longer) if properly taken care of. Routine maintenance and inspections help keep your AC unit running in tip-top shape but understanding what factors will decrease its lifespan will also help keep your unit running cool.

Some things that shorten your AC’s lifespan include:

Extreme outdoor conditions, like high humidity or extensive salt spray
Improper installation
Extended run times, either by the unit being too small or the thermostat setting too low
Not performing required maintenance

The standard rule for return duct sizing is that the return vent should be the same size or larger than the supply vent. This will ensure balanced airflow in your home and reduce strain on your HVAC system.

The Atlantic, IA homeowners’ guide to heating and air conditioning services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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What Is HVAC? Learn About the Main Components, Types of HVAC Systems, and More
What is HVAC? Learn how your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system works to regulate your home’s temperature, humidity, and quality.
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Nov 6, 2025Nov 6, 2025
Who Installs Whole-House Humidifiers?
Who installs whole-house humidifiers? Learn more about hiring a licensed HVAC technician to install a whole-house humidifier.
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Oct 20, 2025Oct 20, 2025
Should I Replace the Blower Motor or Buy a New Furnace?
When the furnace stops working, you may ask yourself: repair or replace? Find out whether to replace a blower motor or buy a new furnace with this guide.