Regular servicing: a term we either use loosely or ignore completely. Too often, once we purchase our expensive gadgets, we install them and then relinquish responsibility for their maintenance and upkeep. However, when it comes to air conditioning, the decision to neglect the maintenance and upkeep of our air conditioning units can be detrimental: not only to our finances, but also to our health and to the environment. This article will look at each risk in turn, in an attempt to encourage responsible practices when it comes to your air conditioning unit. Let us begin by examining their effect on the environment. A number of important studies have been conducted to examine how air conditioners affect the ozone layer, and the greatest contributing factor has been said to be the refrigerant gasses that produce carbon dioxide and other harmful gasses that leave an enormous carbon footprint. Furthermore, the hazardous amount of energy consumption further perpetuates dangerous environmental waste. In addition, the cost of not only buying but using an air conditioner can run well into the thousands. Automobile air conditioners have been found to use a lot of fuel, and in the home, they can consume an excessive amount of electricity. Furthermore, air conditioners have been found to cause diseases such as Legionnaire’s disease, influenza and exacerbate allergies to dust or pollen. However, curbing these risks is not difficult to do, while still enjoying the use of your air conditioner. The first thing to remember is to make sure that the temperature of your air conditioner does not exceed 30 degrees, and never goes below 25 degrees, which is the best room temperature. Secondly, be sure that the air filters of your machine are regularly unclogged as clogged filters reduce the efficacy of your machine, leading to greater fuel or electricity consumption. Finally, make sure your air conditioner has a service plan, and if it does, take advantage of this to ensure the good running of your machine. These easy steps go a long way in preventing harm not only to your wallet and to your health, but to the environment, which we are all responsible for looking after.