Properly caring for your air conditioning unit can help your unit last as long as it is designed to. According to Bob Vila, typical HVAC units can last between 15 and 25 years with this type of care. Unfortunately, many homeowners and business owners don't know how to properly care for and maintain their air conditioning units. Here are a few air conditioning maintenance facts that you should know to help you keep your unit in good shape.

1. Professionally Clean and Inspect It Twice a Year

Our HVAC professionals recommend that you have air conditioning services completed at least twice a year to help your unit function efficiently and last for its full lifespan. Most professionals recommend having your unit professionally maintained in the spring and the fall. Spring maintenance helps to get your unit ready for the warm summer months, while fall maintenance is done to check your unit after it has been used for the summer months.

2. Replace the Filter Every One to Two Months

Another tip that you should know related to air conditioning maintenance pertains to the air filter. You should replace the air filter in your air conditioning unit at least once every one to two months, according to our team. If you live in a dusty environment, you may need to replace your filter more frequently. Replacing your filter is important to the overall efficiency of your air conditioning unit.

3. Trim Trees, Bushes, and Plants Away From Your Unit

The last tip for maintaining your air conditioning unit is to always trim back plant life, such as grass, trees, shrubs, and bushes. Our professionals recommend that there are at least five feet of clear space in front of your air conditioning unit. Overgrown plant life can restrict the amount of air your air conditioning unit can pull in. This means your unit has to work harder to pull in air to clean, which wears the unit out faster.

Air conditioning units are a necessary investment. As such, you want them to last as long as possible after purchasing a new one. Hiring air conditioning services to maintain your unit, regularly replacing the filter, and trimming plant growth away from your unit are just a few of the maintenance tips you should know to help your cooling appliance last. Reach out to local air conditioning services, such as Pipco Air Conditioning & Heating, to schedule an appointment to have your unit cleaned and inspected.