If you live in a really hot area, having AC in the house can be a blessing in disguise. You don’t have to be outside all the time, and you can even enjoy a nap in peace. However, if you are new to having one, you may find yourself making mistakes that will cost you a pretty penny to fix.

Some of the things you should and shouldn’t do:

Dos include

Before you turn the AC on, you should always check the filters, if need be then replace it.

Depending on the brand of AC that you have, you may find the filter in the duct system of some and in the basement of others.

Make sure that there are no obstructions that may hinder the airflow in your room.

Carefully check if the condenser is clear of any vegetation or shrubs near it that will affect its efficiency. Once you have turned it on, listen for any unusual noises. If there is any, don’t hesitate to call a technician to check it out.

You should learn how to maintain the AC by yourself so that you can save on money that you could have used to pay someone else to manage it for you. You don’t need to buy any fancy cleaners, simply get a wet rag with mild detergent added to water. If you feel you need a tougher cleaner, then you can dab some white vinegar onto the cloth every now and then to remove any dirt and debris that may have been stuck on the blades or any other parts that may need cleaning.

Doing this often will result in a manageable electricity bill. You should get a programmable thermostat so that you can adjust the temperature to be cooler or warmer when desired.

Don’ts include

Not checking on the state of your air conditioner regularly can lead to several problems in the future, such as breakdowns leading to a lump sum of repair costs. When it comes to the point where repair is needed, deal with the situation immediately and look up aircon servicing charges to get a gauge of how much it costs.

That’s why it is wise to open up your windows when the weather is favorable as much as possible. You can also make use of fans if you have any. Ceiling fans can also be used so that the AC is not overused and will last longer. These few tips will help to lengthen the life of your aircon.

However, try not to open the doors and windows when the AC is on since it will have to work harder to make the air in the room evenly distributed.

A significant thing you should also avoid doing is missing the inspection that is done on the air conditioner every year. This will need the services of a professional technician from an aircon servicing company. The technician will be poised to identify any issues that will require immediate attention so they can repair it.

Following these points will help you to maintain your air con for a maximum of 10 -15 years. But remember that it’s only the case if you take care of it well.