Air-conditioning units are essential during the hot summer weather, but replacing a failing unit can be very expensive. Most people do not want to spend thousands of dollars on a new AC unit, so it is important to know how to maintain your current unit and reduce unneeded wear and tear so it can last as long as possible. Use the following tips to ensure that your air conditioner meets or exceeds its expected lifespan.

Do Not Skip Having Your AC Unit Serviced

Just like an automobile, an air-conditioning unit needs service and maintenance in order to run efficiently and last as long as possible. Having your air conditioner serviced by a reputable HVAC company will also make sure that any small issues are identified and repaired before they turn into big problems that can lead to your air conditioner failing completely and needing to be replaced. A good rule of thumb is to schedule an AC tuneup and maintenance service during the spring months before you begin using your air conditioner on a regular basis during the summer.

Replace Your Thermostat with a Programmable Thermostat

An easy and affordable way to greatly reduce the wear and tear on your air conditioner is by replacing your current thermostat with a programmable thermostat that can be purchased at any home-improvement store. When you have a programmable thermostat, you can determine when your air conditioner runs and at what temperatures. This can eliminate your air conditioner running during the day for no reason when no one is at home. All you have to do is set the temperature in your home to be warmer when no one is around but program the thermostat to adjust to a lower temperature shortly before you arrive home so you are cool and comfortable when you walk in the door.

Create Shade Around Your Air-Conditioning Unit

During the hottest time of a summer day, a little bit of shade can make a huge difference. When an air conditioning unit sits in direct sunlight and becomes very hot, it has to work that much harder to properly chill the air that is being blown into your home. You can reduce your air conditioner's workload and eliminate some of the wear and tear by planting shade trees in the vicinity of your AC unit. In addition to reducing wear and tear on the components of your air-conditioning unit, providing shade may help lower your cooling costs since your air conditioner will be more efficient. 

For more information about the repair of AC units, talk to a company such as Always Ready Repair.