For many of us, air-conditioning is the only thing that makes it possible to make it through the summer. Even though you might have scheduled visits by a trained professional, there are some things you can do to increase the life-span of your central air-conditioning unit. Since it is a major investment, caring for your unit makes a lot of sense.

You should regularly clean the unit. Your first step would be to turn off power to the unit. After this, remove the grill cover and clean out any debris from the units interior, lubricate the motor, clean the evaporator coil and the condenser. Clean the air filter, or if necessary, replace it.

If you do not use the air-conditioner for an extended period of time, you might want to invest in a cover you can place over it to protect it from the elements during the cold season. It could also help to close the ducts in the ceilings, walls and floor to keep warm air from flowing back out of the room.