You mean it has a filter?

Since I'm in the HVAC business let's talk things you can do as a homeowner to help your system last longer. There are a lot of things you should not do and only a few you may want to do. The air filter is the only thing you must do. I subscribe to the "Air Conditioning" not "Air Filtration" way of thinking on this. Meaning cheaper may be better. More airflow is the deciding factor here. Expensive pleated filters that pick up every tiny particle may be choking your A/C system. Causing strain on your compressor. The more airflow the better. A cheap Dollar filter can be better for your system than anything else. Change your filter every month or so depending on your house and family. Less need to change it if you are an elderly couple that keeps a clean house, as opposed to Mom, Dad, 3 kids, 2 Dogs and a Cat. Sorry Mom. More traffic, more dust, more dander equals more need to change. If you desire more filtration consider asking a HVAC professional about a filtration system specifically designed to filter the air. They can be installed on most any existing system. The very basic one will consist of a large pleated filter. about 5" thick. this gives more area, thus providing great filtration and good airflow. Another benefit is the need to change around once a year.

Next on the agenda should be your outside condensing coil. I believe it is a good idea to wash the coil itself with a garden hose. NEVER a brush or other tools. The coil is very easily bent. You bend the fins and the coil can't breath as well. I use a nice strong spray starting at the top and moving down. You just want to get the dirt, grass or whatever else has been sucked into the coil. And No, never a pressure washer. lol. That was a fun day... Running or not doesn't matter. I hit it when I'm in the area. No direct spray in the fan tho. For obvious reasons.

 Lastly, let's talk plants. They are good for hiding the unit and possibly providing some shade for it on very hot days. They can also be a huge bother for anyone with a need to work on the unit, as well as invading the cabinet of the unit. Ivy and Honeysuckle. Nice, but very invasive. Keep them cut back. You don't want your HVAC service tech doing it. Not very kind to the plant and way expensive. Heh

These things are easy for a homeowner to do and can keep you away from heavy repair bills if you are lucky. And if you are ever hesitant about any of these. Call a professional. Thank you.