Your AC keeps your family comfortable and healthy no matter how much the heat rises outside. You want to make sure that the AC doesn't pose a safety hazard to your children while also ensuring your child doesn't accidentally damage the air conditioning unit.

1. Protect the Condenser Unit

The condenser is the part of your AC that sits outside next to your home. It has a bunch of easily bent fins on the side, along with various vents that a child may be tempted to place items through. These fins are also sharp and can cut small fingers. Protect the unit and your child's safety by making the area off-limits. You can install a small fence around the unit. Just make sure the fence is set a couple of feet out from the condenser so air can circulate freely.

2. Manage Floor and Wall Vents

If the vent is within reach of a child, that child may very well be tempted to place items inside. First and foremost, make sure all vent covers are screwed into place so your child can't remove the covers. It's also a good idea to remove the covers yourself at least once a year to make sure that your child hasn't dropped any items inside. Some items can make a mess in the ducts, while others, like food, can lead to foul odors each time you run the AC.

3. Lock the Thermostat

The thermostat, with all of its buttons and dials, can be quite tempting to a child. While some thermostats are out of reach, others are not. If your child can reach the thermostat, have your AC service install a new one that has a locking feature. This way you won't have to worry about your child turning on the heat in August or cranking up the AC right before you leave on vacation.

4. Child Proof the Air Handler

The air handler is the part of the AC unit that is inside your home. It's often placed inside a closet or in the basement. It may even be a combined unit with your furnace. Inside the air handler is the blower and motor. Although the moving parts are hidden behind an access panel, a determined child may be able to open it up. Put a childproof safety device on the door leading to the room or closet with the air handler to protect both it and your child.

Contact a local air conditioning service for more help.