Americans are largely creatures of comfort. We like to have the ability to control the temperature year round so our house is always comfortable. Because of this, 66% of U.S. houses have heating and air conditioning units. But like all pieces of equipment, in order for home air conditioner units to work properly for a long time, they require maintenance. Below are the top 3 things you can do to keep you heating and cooling repairs to a minimum.

1. The first step of air conditioner maintenance is to change the filters. It is an easy thing to forget but it is also important. Changing the filters allows the machine to operate at its best performance level. The machine has to work harder if it has to push through a lot of dust and pet hair. Generally, HVAC systems need the filters replaces every 1-3 months. Set a reminder on your phone to make sure you remember to replace your filters and help you avoid a broken air conditioner.

2. Perform regular air conditioning maintenance checks. But don’t do them yourself, hire a HVAC repair professional to check the maintenance. By having the professionals come and regularly maintain your air conditioning unit, you can add up to 40% on to the average life of the units. Since many air conditioning units have a lifespan of 15 years, you can add an additional 6 years and hopefully delay or avoid any major heating and cooling repair.

3. Check your heating and cooling system for energy savings. Save energy and money by making sure there are no leaks in the duct work. These leaks can us up to 40% more energy. Fixing these leaks will save you money but will also save your system some work, making it last longer. Heating and cooling units of today are up to 50% more efficient than those from 1990 and it is recommended that if your heating and cooling unit is over 10 years old, you consider replacing it. Saving energy is saving money and saving the equipment some wear and tear.

Keep comfortable with your home heating and air conditioning systems. Systems need maintenance and may need heating and cooling repairs in order to operate at peak efficiency. The last thing you want is to have the heat go out on some cold winter night. Treat your equipment properly with changing air filters regularly, perform regular maintenance checks, and check the system for energy leaks. Follow these guidelines and your heating and cooling equipment may last for over 20 years.