Twenty years is definitely impressive, and it shows you've been diligent with maintenance. If you're noticing bearing noise, you might want to do a quick check on the compressor and coils too—sometimes dirt buildup or minor leaks can sneak up on you. I usually recommend folks keep an eye on temperature consistency between rooms; uneven cooling or heating can hint at bigger issues. But honestly, hitting two decades without major headaches is already a win...you've clearly done something right.
Twenty years is solid, but honestly, luck plays a bigger role than people think. I've seen folks baby their HVAC systems religiously and still have compressors fail at 12-15 years tops. On the flip side, I once tore out a 25-year-old unit that was practically neglected—filters rarely changed, coils never cleaned—and it was still chugging along (barely). Maintenance definitely helps, but manufacturing quality and installation conditions can make or break longevity too.
Also, uneven temps between rooms don't always mean major trouble brewing. Could just be ductwork layout or insulation differences. Had a client convinced his system was dying because one room was always warmer; turned out the duct run was pinched behind drywall from a bad remodel job years earlier.
Point is, don't stress too much about every little sign...HVACs aren't immortal. When it finally goes, it goes. You've already gotten your money's worth and then some.
"Maintenance definitely helps, but manufacturing quality and installation conditions can make or break longevity too."
Couldn't agree more. I've had properties where the HVAC was meticulously maintained yet still gave out early, while others just kept going despite minimal care. One thing I'd add—location matters too. Units in coastal areas or humid climates tend to rust out quicker, even with regular upkeep. So yeah, luck's a factor, but environment plays its part as well...either way, 20 years is a solid run.
That's a great point about location—I've seen coastal units eaten alive by rust, even with regular maintenance. But I wouldn't discount installation quality either, as the original poster mentioned. I've opened up walls to find ductwork that was poorly sealed or kinked right from day one, and that definitely shortens lifespan. On the flip side, I've also come across HVAC units tucked away in older homes that seemed like they'd been forgotten for decades, yet they still ran like champs.
Honestly though, 20 years is pretty impressive no matter how you slice it. You might've gotten lucky with a solid brand or a top-notch installation crew back then. Or maybe your climate conditions are just ideal enough to give the system an easier life. Either way, enjoy it while it lasts, because newer doesn't always mean better these days...
20 years is pretty awesome...makes me wonder, have you been doing regular tune-ups or just leaving it be? I've heard mixed things about newer units too—more efficient, sure, but sometimes pricier repairs. I'm trying to squeeze as many years as possible outta mine, so any tips you've got would be great. Did you stick with the same thermostat all this time, or upgrade at some point?
