Do you know how to keep cool this summer?

The thermometer’s climbing and tempers are rising. But if you take care of your air conditioning system, you can beat the heat without breaking a sweat.

In the sweltering heat, few things feel as good as the cold breeze of an air conditioning unit. Here are some tips for keeping your unit in tip top shape this summer.

Clean your unit’s standard air filter at least every three months. When changing a filter, take it with you to the hardware store so you can get an exact fit. On older models, clean the air conditioner’s air filter once a month. Newer units need their filters cleaned every three to five months.

Keep the area around the outdoor or condensing unit of your central air conditioner free from shrubs and debris. When mowing the lawn, don’t blow lawn or grass clippings toward the unit.

Finally, don’t run your central air conditioner when the outdoor temperature is below 70 degrees. Using your unit during cooler temperatures can cause the air conditioner to die before it’s time.

Follow these tips and you should have a worry-free cool-as-a-cucumber summer.