You’re using your air conditioner to cool off your home because it’s scorching outdoors. You feel as though you have an allergy to your house because every time you are in it, you sneeze, cough, or sniffle. Or perhaps it’s your air conditioning system? In a word, “No,” however you can be experiencing an allergic reaction if the air quality within the air conditioner is inadequate.
When Indoor Air Is the Root of an Allergic Response
Toxic microorganisms can exist in large buildings’ ventilation systems, and as cold air is circulated around the structure, the toxins that are discharged can have an impact on those who are within. People may experience the following signs and symptoms if the air in a large facility is contaminated in this way:
✔Dizziness
✔Shortness of breath
✔Fatigue
✔Watery eyes
✔Digestive problems
✔Coughing
✔Sneezing
✔Fever
Unsurprisingly, those who are young, old, have chronic respiratory conditions, or are infants and children are more likely to respond negatively to airborne pollutants.
Although air cooling does not in and of itself cause illness, this does not mean that the airborne allergens that circulate within the air conditioning system do not do so. The AC unit itself can be the source of the issue.
Does it seem like every time you start to feel sick, the AC comes on? If so, airborne allergens are probably the blame. Additionally, air conditioners can transfer bacteria and viruses as well as other pests through the air.
Major Airborne Toxins
What types of airborne pollutants are capable of moving through conditioned air? Many, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from household cleaning products, pollen, dust mites, pet dander, bacteria, and viruses (such as influenza, measles, chickenpox, legionella, and staphylococcus).
How can the root causes of indoor air pollution be treated?
✔Get the ductwork in your home’s attic or basement
✔Despite the fact that your air conditioning unit is outside, clean the area around it.
✔Purchase an air purifier for your home’s interior.
✔HEPA filters, which can eliminate 99.9% of particles larger than a certain size, should be used in place of your current air filters.
Is it time to clean your air ducts or do you need your AC unit maintained or repaired? Contact Winters Home Services to arrange a service call for all of your HVAC needs!