It's hot outside and everyone wants to stay cool inside with their air conditioner. But, if you don't take proper care of your AC unit, it won't last long! Here are 5 expert tips to keep your AC running smoothly:

First, clean or replace the air filter regularly (every three months or so). A dirty filter can not only reduce the efficiency of your system but can also cause damage. Not only that, but changing your filters is an easy and inexpensive way to maintain your air conditioner.

Secondly, check the outdoor unit condenser coil often. If there’s dust or debris in this area, it needs to be cleaned out with a garden hose and soft brush. This will help improve the efficiency of your AC system by allowing more airflow through the coils.

Moreover, you should make sure there are no obstructions around the outdoor unit like shrubs or leaves. These can hinder airflow and cause damage over time! It’s also important to check for loose parts on a regular basis; these should be tightened promptly in order to avoid any unnecessary problems.

Additionally, keep in mind that proper maintenance requires professional expertise from time-to-time. Have a qualified technician inspect your system at least once a year to ensure its performance level remains high and any needed repairs are taken care of quickly!

Finally, make sure you use energy-efficient settings on your thermostat as much as possible – this will lower energy costs while still keeping you comfortable indoors. Also remember to turn off the AC when leaving home for prolonged periods of time so you don’t waste electricity unnecessarily!

So there you have it – five expert tips for maintaining your air conditioner! Following these steps will go a long way towards ensuring that it continues working properly for years down the road (and without breaking down too!). All in all - taking good care of our AC units is key if we want to stay nice and cool during those hot summer days!