HVAC Age Decoder

Need to know how old your HVAC system is? Enter the brand and serial number below and we'll decode the manufacture date, show you where it sits in its expected lifespan, and help you plan ahead.

Helps improve decoding accuracy. Found on the same data plate as the serial number.

Typically on a metal plate on the side or back of the unit.

How to Find Your HVAC Serial Number

Every HVAC system has a data plate (sometimes called a nameplate or rating plate) with the model and serial number. Here's where to look:

  • Central AC (outdoor unit): On the metal data plate on the side of the condenser unit, usually near the service valve connections or the electrical panel cover
  • Furnace: On the data plate inside the furnace cabinet — open the front panel or blower door to find it
  • Heat Pump (outdoor unit): On the data plate on the side of the unit, similar location to a central AC condenser
  • Mini-Split: On the outdoor unit's side panel or on the indoor unit's data plate (behind the front cover or on the side)
  • Package Unit: On the data plate on the exterior panel of the unit, typically near the electrical disconnect
  • Boiler: On the front panel, side panel, or behind the burner access door

Brands We Decode

Our HVAC age decoder supports all major brands and their subsidiaries:

  • Carrier family: Carrier, Bryant, Payne, Heil, Day & Night, Arcoaire
  • Trane family: Trane, American Standard
  • Lennox: Lennox, including Allied, Armstrong, Ducane, and Concord
  • Rheem family: Rheem, Ruud, Richmond, Weather King
  • Goodman family: Goodman, Amana HVAC (owned by Daikin)
  • York family: York, Coleman, Luxaire, Fraser-Johnston
  • Daikin: Daikin branded equipment
  • Ductless systems: Mitsubishi Electric, Fujitsu

Average HVAC Lifespans

Understanding your system's expected lifespan helps you budget for replacements and make smarter repair decisions:

  • Central Air Conditioner: 12-20 years (average 15 years)
  • Gas Furnace: 15-25 years (average 20 years)
  • Heat Pump: 10-18 years (average 14 years)
  • Mini-Split: 12-20 years (average 15 years)
  • Package Unit: 12-18 years (average 15 years)
  • Boiler: 15-30 years (average 20 years)

When your system approaches the end of its expected life, our Repair or Replace Calculator can help you decide whether a repair is worth the investment, and our HVAC Cost Estimator can give you Good/Better/Best pricing for a new system.

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