What is the connection between your AC system and indoor air quality?
Air conditioning units use air filters which help to remove a wide variety of particles that end up in our indoor air and negatively affect our health.
These pollutants can include things like:
- Pet Hair
- Dander
- Dust Mites
- Pollen
- Other Allergens
Air conditioning units also help to regulate the humidity within your home.
High humidity can lead to the presence of:
- Mold
- Mildew
- Fungus
- Viruses
It’s important to remember that air conditioning units are not designed to be air purifiers and won’t remove all germs, viruses, smoke, or pollutants in the air. However, a well-maintained HVAC unit can reduce indoor air pollution and help to create a healthier indoor atmosphere.
What are the effects of a poorly maintained air conditioning system?
Air conditioners are used to regulate indoor temperature and humidity levels, keeping a comfortable environment within your home. However, when unmaintained, AC units can do more harm than good. All AC units, including central air conditioning, duct-split systems, and window units have components that filter and circulate the air throughout your home.
These components include:
- Air Filters
- Coils
- Fans
Without proper maintenance, these components can become a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and dust, contributing to poor health, respiratory issues, and exacerbating allergies.
How can I improve my indoor air quality?
Now that we know the connection between your air conditioner and indoor air quality, let’s take a look at some steps you can take to ensure your family is both safe and comfortable this summer:
- Clean your air filters – Over time, air filters get dirty and clogged. Not only will dirty air filters cause your air conditioner to work harder to keep your home cool (resulting in higher energy bills), but your system will no longer efficiently trap airborne particles such as dust and pollen. Regularly cleaning your air filters is essential to maintaining indoor air quality and preventing the buildup of contaminants within the system. You can clean your AC filter by shutting off the system and removing the filter. Use a vacuum to remove any debris and gently wash the filter with soap and water. Allow it to dry completely before returning it to the AC unit. You should aim to clean your air filter every 1-3 months.
- Install a dehumidifier – Your air conditioner helps to control the humidity in your home as it cools the air. However, it can’t remove all moisture, especially when the humidity levels outside are high. Installing a whole-home dehumidifier removes any moisture that your AC misses, inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew while allowing your cooling unit to run more efficiently.
- Install an air purifier – Your air conditioner’s primary function is to cool the air, not to filter it. Installing a whole-home air purification system that connects to your HVAC unit removes a wide range of airborne pollutants, effectively cleaning the air in your home.
- Schedule regular AC maintenance – The best way to maintain your air conditioning unit is through an annual maintenance checkup with a professional HVAC technician. Regular preventative maintenance by an expert keeps your air conditioner running at optimum efficiency. Professional HVAC maintenance can reduce your energy costs, reduce the need for repairs, extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit, and improve your indoor air quality.
Now you can see the connection between air conditioning and air quality. Not only does a well-maintained, properly functioning air conditioner work to keep you cool during the midst of summer, but it also plays an important role in indoor air quality. On the flip side, air conditioning systems that are not adequately maintained can contribute to poor air quality that negatively affects your family’s health. To schedule your air conditioning maintenance checkup, contact us today at Lynn’s Heating, Cooling, Sewer, and Drain.
Greetings, I’m Dallas. I’m a small business owner living in Winnipeg, MB, Canada and operate Lynn’s HVAC Winnipeg: Heating Cooling Sewer & Drain.
Lynn’s HVAC Winnipeg plumbing, heating, cooling is a small family owned and operated business since 1980. We pride ourselves on quality work completed by licensed technicians. We believe our outstanding customer service sets us apart from other Winnipeg residential plumbing, heating and cooling companies. Experience the difference and be a part of the Lynn’s family! “We provide comfort at your door!”
Services we provide:
– HVAC repair, – AC repair & install, – Furnace repair & install, – Hot water tanks, – Water heaters, – Clogged drains & sewage, – Plumbing
Areas we serve:
Winnipeg, Oakbank, Beausejour, La Salle, Ile Des Chênes, Stonewall, Niverville, Gimli, Ste. Francois Xavier, Landmark, Selkirk, Steinbach, Stony Mountain, Winnipeg Beach, Lorette & More!
