They say prevention is the best medicine, and staying on top of your health will keep you happy and healthy for years to come. The same applies to your air conditioning unit. When the heat is rising, the last thing you want is for your cooling power to die. Annual tune-ups can keep your air conditioner running strong all summer long. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, if you neglect annual maintenance, your air conditioning performance will steadily decline. Oh, and your energy bills? Expect those to skyrocket. The DOE also says replacing a dirty, clogged filter can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption anywhere from 5 to 15 percent. With annual maintenance, an air conditioner can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. A seasonal tune-up costs $99, while a new air conditioner can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $7,183. The cheaper choice is obvious, right? Right!