As the adage goes, prevention is better than cure. It will take you less time and resources to keep your HVAC system in good shape instead of waiting for it to develop problems and call for a repair. Essentially, HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Without it, you wouldn't be able to enjoy the thermal comfort inside your house despite the temperature terribly high or low. If you are looking to keep your air conditioning unit in good shape, here are some helpful tips to get you through:

• Learn Stuff about Your HVAC

The first step to keeping your HVAC in good shape is by learning lots of stuff about it. Most people just know where the thermostat is located and what it does. They just see the vents and fans on walls and ceilings but they rarely care to dig deeper into the system. Don't be one of those people. Explore the fittings further and follow your HVAC down to the vents, condenser and heaters. These hidden components are the lifeline of your HVAC. With central HVAC systems, go through the manufacturer's guide to understand where each component is located and what it does. Such knowledge will help you to detect problems early enough before they occur.

• Inspect Your Filters

If there is one that works very hard on your HVAC system then it is the filters. Their work is to trap any dust particles that would have otherwise found their way into your indoor air. They also prevent dirt from entering and clogging the HVAC system when air circulation of air reverses. Ideally, you should check your filters once a month by opening the vent inlet. If they are dirty, clean them as directed in your system's manual. You should also change the filters every six months to keep mechanical breakdowns from occurring regularly.

• Keep Fans Clean

Note that most air conditioning systems have fans. As the fans go about their business rotating wildly in the air, they generate electrostatic charge, which is a perfect magnet for dust particles to the fans. Cleaning the fans should thus be a part of your regular cleaning routine. Dusting and wiping them weekly should be good enough for your system.

• Professional Inspections

Many homeowners believe that professionals are only required when there is a problem you cannot deal with yourself. However, this is not the case. Make it a habit to call in a professional every two years to inspect the system thoroughly and make his or her recommendations. They will help you keep your maintenance and energy consumption on track.