How Long Does an HVAC System Last in Texas? When to Plan for a Replacement

Living in Southeast Texas, your HVAC system is a lifeline to keeping you and your loved ones comfortable and safe. Whether you are in Spring, The Woodlands, or Tomball, you know that our climate puts mechanical equipment to the ultimate test.

Between the oppressive humidity of July and the sudden cold snaps of January, your system works harder here than almost anywhere else in the country.

At Milton Frank Plumbing & Cooling, we’ve been serving the North Houston area since 1984. With over 42 years of experience, we’ve seen firsthand how the Texas heat affects air conditioners and heaters.

If you’re wondering how much life is left in your system, here is what you need to know about HVAC longevity and replacement.

HVAC Equipment Service Life in Texas

In milder climates, an air conditioner might last 20 years or more. Here in Texas, we tend to go big—even with the weather.

The Greater Houston area presents unique challenges: extreme heat, high humidity, and heavy pollen counts. Here is what you can typically expect:

Air Conditioners: 10–15 Years

The Texas sun weighs heavily on AC units. Because our cooling season lasts from March through October, the high run time required to keep a home comfortable causes internal components to wear down faster than the national average. A system past its prime can’t pull moisture out of the air, creating a breeding ground for mold in your ductwork.

Furnaces: 15–20 Years

While we don’t ‘burn’ through furnaces, the salt air and high humidity in the Greater Houston area can cause heat exchangers to rust out while sitting idle. A furnace that looks brand new on the outside might have dangerous cracks on the inside.

Heat Pumps: 10–12 Years

Heat pumps are popular in Texas because they handle both heating and cooling. Because they work year-round without a seasonal break, they often have a slightly shorter lifespan than a dedicated furnace.

HVAC Replacement Planning

If your HVAC unit is approaching the 12-year mark, it is wise to start budgeting for a replacement. We carry Trane products because they are built to outlast other brands in the Houston heat. Modern Trane systems meet the latest SEER2 requirements.

Factors That Influence Your System’s Longevity

Not every HVAC system is created equal. Several factors determine whether your unit will make it to its 15th birthday or fail at year eight.

• Extreme Heat and Usage: The ‘Texas Tax’ on HVAC equipment is real! Constant, high-intensity operation during our long summers places extreme strain on the compressor and fan motors.
• Maintenance History: This is the single most important factor. Regular, professional bi-annual tune-ups (spring and fall) can extend a system’s life by 5 or more years.
• Installation Quality: A system is only as good as its installation. If an AC unit is improperly sized for your home, it will short-cycle or run constantly, leading to premature failure.
• Dirty Coils and Filters: Restricted airflow is the silent killer. When filters are clogged, the system has to work twice as hard to move the same amount of air, accelerating internal wear.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Texas HVAC Equipment

It can be tempting to keep patching up an old unit, but there comes a point where value means investing in a new system rather than throwing money at a failing one.

Look for these signs:

• The 5,000 Rule: Multiply the equipment’s age by the repair cost. If the total exceeds $5,000, replacement is usually the smarter financial move.
• Rising Energy Bills: If your electric bills are climbing even though rates haven’t changed, your system is losing its efficiency.
• Humidity Issues: If your home feels clammy or your AC can’t keep the humidity below 55%, the system is no longer dehumidifying effectively.
• Frequent Repairs: If you’ve had our technicians out more than twice in two years, the system is signaling its retirement.

Texas HVAC: Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my AC struggle when it hits 100°F outside?

Most residential systems are designed to drop the indoor temperature by about 20 degrees compared to the outdoor air. When it’s 100°F in Houston, your system is working at maximum capacity just to stay at 78°F. If your home is significantly warmer than that, it’s time for a professional inspection.

How often should I actually change my filters?

While packaging might say 90 days for a standard 1-inch filter, that doesn’t account for a Texas summer. Between the heavy pollen in the springtime and the constant runtime in July, we recommend checking your filter every 30 days.

Should I turn my AC off when I leave for work?

Never. In the Spring/The Woodlands area, turning your AC completely off allows humidity to soak into your furniture and drywall. Instead, raise your thermostat by 5 to 7 degrees while you’re away to maintain humidity control without overworking the unit.

New for 2026: Making the Upgrade Affordable

Replacing an HVAC system is a significant investment, but 2026 is actually one of the best years to do it. Because we prioritize value, we make sure our customers stay informed on current savings:

• HEEHRA Rebates: Depending on your household income, you may qualify for point-of-sale rebates of up to $8,000 for high-efficiency heat pump installations.
• Local Utility Programs: Companies like Entergy Texas and CenterPoint often offer instant rebates for upgrading to higher SEER2-rated equipment.
• Trane Seasonal Promotions: As a Trane dealer, we often have access to special trade-in allowances and financing offers that aren’t available to the general public.

Trust the Local HVAC Experts in Greater Houston

Don’t wait for your AC to fail on a Sunday afternoon in August. Planning your replacement during the shoulder seasons allows you to choose the right system without the pressure of an emergency.

At Milton Frank Plumbing & Cooling, value is our golden rule. As a family-owned business since 1984, we take pride in our A+ BBB rating and our NATE-certified technicians. All of our experts are licensed by the Texas Department of Labor Regulations (TDLR), ensuring your home stays cool, safe, and efficient.

If you live in Spring, The Woodlands, Tomball, or any of the surrounding areas, contact Milton Frank Plumbing & Cooling today for a system evaluation. Call us today at 281-645-9596 or request service online.