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Ashburn VA Building Ductwork and Ventilation That May Need top HVAC Repair Services

HVAC Awareness: Parts & Their Lifespans

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Homeowners who have a malfunctioning HVAC system should research it and determine whether a professional HVAC repair or replacement offers better value. While the lifespan of any given part depends on its system’s type, daily usage, and maintenance, the industry has some general guidelines. For instance, compressors typically last between 10-15 years, furnaces 16-20 years, and window units 8-10 years (most models last 2-5 more years if maintained).

For all your HVAC questions, repairs, and installations, reach out to RA Dobson. We are the Ashburn, VA, region’s provider of heating, cooling, and plumbing services. A second-generation family business with over 45 years of industry experience, we have a deep connection to our community and customers. Our team offers a wide range of services that includes heat pump installation, duct cleaning, thermostat repair, and more. To learn more or get a free estimate, contact us today.

Below, we outline HVAC system types, parts, and their expected lifespans:

Air Conditioner Components

All home HVAC systems operate by exchanging interior and exterior air. The air conditioning function, in particular, is designed to pull warm air from inside and release it outside. It does so using the following parts: 

  • Evaporator – housed within the interior-facing portion of the unit, the evaporator cools indoor air using a copper tubing coil and aluminum fins.
  • Condenser – also made of a copper tubing coil, the exterior-facing condenser releases the unit’s collected heat outside.
     
  • Compressor – a pump that moves refrigerant fluid between the evaporator and condenser as well as their copper tubing.
  • Refrigerant fluid – a liquid pumped into the evaporator, where it pulls heat from the interior air by evaporating, to the condenser, where it releases heat and reverts back to a liquid.

Heating Components

In addition to their cooling capacities, many HVAC systems include heating functionality. Heating applies the air transfer principle, outlined above, in reverse: warm air is pulled from outside and released inside. However, when outdoor air becomes colder than the indoors, the HVAC system warms incoming air using one of two devices: 

  • Furnace – using natural gas, oil, or electricity, furnaces heat the air from outside then release it into ductwork that distributes it throughout a structure.
  • Boiler – instead of heating air, boilers heat water into steam that then warms the interior.

Heat pumps and geothermal heating systems are also used in homes, but they are far less common than furnaces and boilers.

HVAC repair in Ashburn VA

The Lifespan of HVAC Systems & Parts

So, how long do all these systems (and their components) last? As mentioned above, the lifespan of each depends on its system’s daily usage and design. However, the following guidelines can give you a sense of their endurance: 

  • Central HVAC – the “traditional” form of heating and cooling, central HVAC systems combine heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) functionalities. Each element of these systems has a different lifespan: furnaces tend to last 16-20 years while central air conditioners last 12-15. On the other hand, boilers last 10-15 years.
  • Air conditioning window units – estimates for window unit lifespans vary widely. Some sources place it at an average of 10 years while others 8 years. However, all agree that you can extend your unit’s life with regular maintenance.
  • Air conditioner parts – on top of unit lifespans, individual parts in air conditioners can fail. Compressors, for instance, last between 10-15 years. However, this means that you can replace a part without replacing the whole unit.

HVAC Repair and Maintenance Services Available in Ashburn, VA

While HVAC systems come in many types that contain myriad components, learning about them pays off. You’ll know when to call for HVAC repair services and when you need a full HVAC system replacement. No matter the situation, turn to RA Dobson for all your home services needs. We specialize in heating, air conditioning, and plumbing services but also offer support with generators, humidifiers, and more. We’ve served the Ashburn, VA, area for 45 years, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with this community. For more information or to schedule a service, call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form.

HVAC inspections Sterling VA

What to Expect From an HVAC Inspection

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Repairs and replacement parts for any home’s HVAC system can be expensive. However, with regular inspections and maintenance, you can increase your system’s lifespan, all while enjoying the benefits of its continued efficiency. R.A. Dobson knows there’s a difference between simply having your HVAC system checked and paying far more to fix or replace its components. 

However, we ease our clients’ troubles by offering affordable HVAC inspection services, as well as high-quality appliances at competitive prices. With over 45 years of service experience in Sterling VA and throughout Northern VA, our top-notch technicians have helped keep numerous HVAC systems in excellent condition throughout the years.

Here’s what you can expect from one of our inspection services. 

Spot Checking

The first thing your technician will do upon arrival is check the overall condition of your system. 

They’ll check for obstructions, such as dust, mold, or whatever else may have ended up around your coils, leaks, corrosion, rust, and loose wires. 

Upon finding any of these issues, they’ll immediately get to work on fixing them. 

Replacements & Cleaning

After the initial spot check, one of the ways your technician will address any issues that arise is by replacing certain components. 

This most often occurs with systems that are years old and have not undergone any sort of maintenance for some time.

Depending on the parts that are being replaced, this step can extend beyond the original date of inspection, as most HVAC professionals may not have the necessary parts on hand and will have to order and install them later on. 

Along with replacements, your technician will also clean and lubricate your current parts in order to sustain their condition and reduce wear and tear. 

Calibration & Adjustment

Another action your technician will perform is any necessary adjustments to your system’s settings. One example is testing and adjusting the current electrical system in order to generate and receive the proper amount of energy for optimal efficiency from your system. 

They will also check and calibrate your thermostat to ensure that you get the most accurate temperatures from your home’s system.  

R.A. Dobson: Comprehensive HVAC Inspections in Sterling, VA

Getting inspections on your HVAC system as often as twice a year can ensure it remains in its best shape for years to come. Avoid the hassle and costs of expensive replacements and repairs by calling a reliable HVAC inspection expert from R.A. Dobson of Sterling, VA.

Our team is highly-trained in detailed inspections, effective installations, and many other affordable services and products. With us at your side, you can guarantee your home’s air conditioning and heating systems are ready for the hot summer and the cold fall weather right after. 
Contact us at (703) 481-3700 to schedule an expert inspection today.