Yep, another cleaning tip (have you been noticing the trend?). But in order to get the most out of your AC, not just the inside ducts and filters have to be sparkling; the outside of your unit should be pretty clean, too. This isn’t just to make it look pretty but rather to increase its productivity and lifespan. It’s especially easy for that outdoor unit (the one no longer covered by shrubbery!) to get clogged. “As the unit is outside, it’s easy for debris and foliage to clog up the exterior of the unit, which can make it more difficult for the fan to work properly and the heat to escape the unit,” Perera explains. He also notes that vines can grow on the unit, making it more difficult for the system to expel heat. And even if your unit doesn’t have an outdoor component, it’s important to clean off any dirt and dust from the blades, compressors and other interior parts.