Air conditioning systems can last for a long time when properly maintained. Modern air conditioning systems, in fact, have an average lifespan of about 10 to 20 years. Some of them will even last longer. To protect your air conditioning system from premature wear and tear, though, you should avoid these cooling systems.

#1) Closing Supply Vents

Closing the supply vents in your home can take a toll on your air conditioning system. If you close all of the supply vents for an unoccupied room, pressure will build up inside of the ductwork. Too much pressure can damage the ductwork, resulting in costly air leaks.

#2) Opening the Windows

Avoid opening the windows when running your air conditioning system. Even if you only crack the windows, it will allow the conditioned air to escape your home. The cool and conditioned air will escape through the windows, and it will be replaced by warm air.

#3) Running the Blower 24/7

Another cooling mistake to avoid is running the blower all the time. The blower is a fan. You can control it at the thermostat. Even if your air conditioning system isn’t running, you can run the blower by choosing the “ON” setting. But running the blower all the time won’t create a cooler interior; it will simply consume energy while blowing room-temperature air throughout your home.

#4) Using a Dirty Air Filter

Perhaps the most common cooling mistake homeowners make is using a dirty air filter. Air filters will inevitably get dirty. After all, they work by catching particulate matter from the air. If you don’t change the air filter, it may get so dirty that it restricts airflow.

#5) Overlooking the Condensate Drain

Don’t overlook the condensate drain. If you have a central air conditioning system with an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, it will have a condensate drain. The condensate drain is located near the indoor unit, which is the evaporator coil. Like most types of drains, it can get clogged. A clogged condensate drain can cause water to back up at the evaporator coil.

#6) Neglecting an Annual Inspection

About once a year, schedule a professional inspection for your air conditioning system. Some homeowners neglect an annual inspection. Rather, they wait until their air conditioning system stops working to contact a professional. You can protect your air conditioning system from failure by getting it professionally inspected at least once a year.