Around 50 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies. Some of us also experience allergy flare-ups when we stay indoors for extended periods. While there is no single solution to the problem, an air conditioner may hold some secrets that can give you relief from allergies. Let’s go through some common allergens and see how your air conditioning system can help.
Common Allergens and Symptoms
Allergy triggers exist outside and inside our homes. While most seasonal allergens appear around spring when plants release pollen, indoor allergens come from multiple sources—pet hair and dander, dust mites, pest droppings, indoor plants, mold, fibers from synthetic fabrics, cleaning products, gases from running appliances, and chemicals present in building material.
And don’t forget that seasonal allergens also make their way into your home. Allergy symptoms include sneezing, itchy eyes, dry skin, a runny nose, and ear congestion. If not addressed, allergies can also cause breathing difficulties, asthma attacks, and severe fatigue.
How Air Conditioning Systems Help With Allergies
Whether your allergy flares up on specific seasons or when you’re relaxing at home, your air conditioner can dramatically change your indoor air quality and subsequently help you breathe allergen-free air. But the secret lies in the filter. It should have a MERV rating of at least 8, be inspected monthly, and be replaced every three months.
So, how does the AC help? First, the air conditioner unit uses the air filter to sift all the air coming into your home, trapping pollen, tiny particles, and other pollutants. Second, an air conditioner controls humidity indoors, denying mold and fungus the environment it needs to grow. Third, with an air conditioner circulating fresh air indoors, you won’t need to open the window during the sweltering days. That means pollen and other allergens won’t find an opening to get inside your home.
Tips To Use Your AC Unit To Alleviate Allergies
To get the best out of your air conditioner, follow these tips:
Get the Right Filter – As mentioned above, the air filter plays a big role in purifying indoor air. If you experience allergies, you can’t afford to skimp on filters. Apart from a MERV-rated filter, you can opt for an electrostatic filter, which attracts and traps pollutants using an electric charge, or a HEPA filter, which has been shown to collect up to 99.97% of allergens.
Replace Your Air Filters – Regardless of how effective your air filter is, it won’t last forever. It should be replaced every three months. If you neglect it, it will get clogged, impacting your indoor air quality, and force your AC unit to work harder, driving up your energy bill. If you have an electrostatic filter, inspect and wash it frequently.
Schedule Air Duct Cleaning – Your duct system plays a critical role in improving indoor air quality. With time contaminants build up inside them, and they may leak through the vents and pollute the air. While cleaning them frequently isn’t necessary, you should schedule a ductwork cleanup every few years.
Use an Air Purifier to Clear the Air – Don’t let your AC system do all the hard work. Reduce some of its workload by adding an air purifier. These gadgets are effective in eliminating different types of contaminants such as dust, bacteria, and germs.
Keep Your AC Well maintained to Enjoy its Health Benefits
To beat allergies and keep your family safe from indoor pollution-related illnesses, partner with an HVAC technician to perform an AC tune-up at least once a year. This will ensure your AC runs efficiently, keeping your indoor air pure. Veteran Air Conditioning is an established HVAC company in Sarasota, offering unmatched AC and heating services. Whether you need an HVAC repair, an AC upgrade, or a regular check-up, feel free to contact us!
