During the cooler months, you might not give a single thought to your air conditioning unit--but at the first warm gust of wind heralding the summer months, many of us run straight to the air conditioner. Maintenance in those cooler months can ensure that your air conditioner is up to the challenge during the dog days of summer.

Air Conditioning Maintenance

Although an annual air conditioning check-up is a good idea, regular maintenance between check-ups is also important. Here are a few easy ways to ensure your air conditioning unit will run just as it should:

• Change the Filters. Disposable filters should be replaced, but electrostatic filters simply need a thorough cleaning. Clean filters help your air conditioner run more efficiently.
• Check the Outside. Clear any trash, leaves, or other blockages from around the unit. Good air flow is essential to air conditioning!
• Run it Occasionally. Turn your air conditioner on now and then, especially in the early spring. If the air conditioner isn't working like it should, fixing the problem in the cooler months will be much easier than sitting on a waiting list during the hottest days of the year.
• Check the Panels. Small bits of debris in the unit or small nesting animals can wreck havoc on your air conditioning system. Make certain all access panels are tightly closed.

Cleaning Your Air Conditioner

Clean the vents, filters, and outside of your unit, but leave the heavy cleaning to professionals. Using a water hose to clean the air conditioning unit can lead to electric shock or short out the electrical components. A professional cleaning takes care of the dust and debris that can prevent your air conditioner from running at peak performance.