If you often find yourself with a runny nose or a sore throat when your AC is on full blast, you might be wondering if your air conditioner is making you sick. Often, a runny nose can be attributed to a sudden change from warm to cold air, like if you come in from a hot summer day. Air conditioners also dry out the air, which can cause respiratory irritation if humidity levels fall too low.
However, sometimes your AC might negatively impact your health beyond a cold nose or a dry throat. In this blog, we’ll dive into the potential health issues that can come from poor indoor air quality when an AC system is not properly maintained.
How Does Your AC System Affect Indoor Air Quality?
Air conditioning itself doesn’t cause illness, but it can contribute to poor indoor air quality if your system isn’t kept clean and well-maintained. Your AC circulates air throughout your home, which means any allergens, dust, or pollutants in that air will be recirculated unless it is filtered out.
Common AC problems include:
- Dirty filters that fail to trap pollen, pet dander, and dust.
- Mold and bacteria growing in damp areas of the system, especially in the evaporator coil or ductwork.
- High humidity, which creates an ideal environment for allergens and microbial growth.
If these conditions go unchecked, your air conditioner could start circulating more than just cool air.
How to Keep Your AC System Clean
A clean air conditioning system is a big part of maintaining healthy indoor air quality. Follow these tips to reduce health risks and keep your AC running efficiently:
- Change air filters regularly: Replace your filters every one to three months, especially during peak cooling season, to trap airborne allergens and dust before they circulate through your home.
- Schedule routine HVAC maintenance: Professional AC maintenance helps catch issues early, keeps your system running efficiently, and reduces the likelihood of mold or bacteria buildup.
- Keep vents and registers clean: Wipe down your air vents regularly to prevent dust and debris from entering the system or blowing into your living spaces.
- Install an air purifier: A whole-home air purifier works alongside your AC to capture allergens, bacteria, and other airborne pollutants, improving indoor air quality throughout your home.
- Monitor and control humidity: Use humidifiers and dehumidifiers as needed to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% to 50%, preventing the growth of mold and dust mites.
- Check for leaks or standing water: Any moisture buildup in your HVAC system can become a breeding ground for mold. Address leaks or drainage issues immediately.
Choose All-Temp for AC Services
If your AC is making you feel less than your best, it might be time to call in the experts. All-Temp Systems Mechanical, LLC has been helping homeowners across Central Massachusetts breathe easier since 1982. With upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency services, and a reputation for excellence, All-Temp is the trusted name for AC services in Holliston, Milford, Franklin, Medway, and beyond.
Contact All-Temp today to schedule your AC tune-up in Central Massachusetts!
