Clean the filter every month - Most air conditioners are outfitted with a simple electrostatic filter in the front grill area to filter air that passes through. You should clean the filter once a month during the cooling season. If it looks worn or has holes in it, it's time to replace it. Try our "electrostatic filter cut-to-fit material," which you can find by clicking here.

Don't short cycle the cooling system - Air conditioners have cooling systems similar to refrigerators. It's important not to turn the unit off and then back on right away. Wait at least ten minutes after shutting the unit off to allow the pressure in the refrigeration system to equalize. This will prolong the life of your air conditioner.

Clean condenser coils annually - Window air conditioner condenser coils get very dirty over time. The dirt is often hard to see, as it tends to accumulate on the inside of the coils, out of sight. Remove the entire cover of the air conditioner to gain access to the coils. Watch out for wasp or bees nests inside the unit. The coils can be cleaned by blowing compressed air at them or by using a soft bristle brush to wipe the dirt off. While you have the unit open, be sure to clean any dirt or lint build-up in the bottom of the air conditioner, and oil the motor if the unit is equipped with oil ports.

Inspect cooling coils for frost or ice build up - If the temperature outside cools to approximately 68 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, check the coils on the front of the air conditioner to be sure they are not icing up. If they are icing up, turn the air conditioner off until the temperature outside rises higher than 68 degrees. Remember to turn the unit off at night if the overnight temperature is expected to drop below 68 degrees.

In the winter, store the unit in a basement or utility room, not a garage - Mice and other small animals love to nest in air conditioners. They can cause serious damage by chewing on wiring and insulation. Wasps and birds also like to nest in uncovered units left in windows. Consider buying a cover for the part of the unit that sits outside the window if you are unable to remove and store it for the winter. Try our "window air conditioner cover," which you can find by clicking here.