As a homeowner, of course you want to keep your home's major components in good working condition. This certainly applies to your home's central air conditioning, especially when you consider that it can easily cost thousands of dollars to replace this type of system. The good news is that there are some very simple steps you can start taking now to prolong the life of your central air conditioning system and potentially save yourself some money on the repairs down the road.

Cover Your Condenser During the Winter Months

All central air conditioning systems have at least one condenser unit, which is that large, boxy component that is most likely set up somewhere along the side of your house or even behind your home. If you live in a climate where you don't use your air conditioning for several months out of the year (such as during the cooler winter months), consider investing in a quality cover for your condenser unit. 

By covering your condenser unit while it's not in use, you can prevent falling debris (such as leaves and twigs) from making its way into the condenser itself. You can also cut down on the chances of precipitation entering the unit and freezing, which can cause damage to internal components. Just make sure you remember to remove the cover before firing up your AC for the first time in the spring/summer!

Keep Landscaping Trimmed Around Outdoor Units

Overgrown grass, weeds, and plants can impede airflow around your outdoor air condenser unit as well. Over time, this can cause the unit to work harder than it should to keep your home cool, which can put stress on parts and result in premature wear. You can avoid this by simply keeping all landscaping around your outdoor condenser unit trimmed back, especially during the summer months.

Schedule an Annual Air Conditioning Inspection/Tune-Up

If you're not already signed up for an annual service contract with your favorite HVAC company, now is the time to enroll. These air conditioning maintenance services typically include an annual inspection and tune-up on your entire central AC system, which can keep your unit running more smoothly. These inspections can also alert you to potential issues that can be easily (and inexpensively) repaired.

A little air conditioning maintenance can go a long way in maximizing the life of your home's central AC. As a result, your system may run more efficiently and may last longer, thus saving you some of your hard-earned money.

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