Allergy season is right around the corner – along with pumpkin lattes. Likely there’s only one of these seasonal things that you want to quickly come and go (unless, of course, you’re allergic to pumpkin too). Whatever your bad reaction, know that you can at least combat fall allergens at home; it starts with your air conditioner.
In Florida, we run our AC systems nearly year round so it’s no surprise that they pick up microscopic problems along the way – problems that could impact your health. Want to know more about what’s inside your AC? Consider these three AC parts and the tiny “critters” they may be carrying.
1. Filters: Dust
Failing to change your filters can impact your indoor health. Dust is really just a general term for the mixture of stuff that gets trapped in them. Filters can become cluttered with actual dust mites, as well as other allergens, including pet dander and pollen.
While these intruders are small, their related symptoms are nothing to sniff at. Your typical seasonal issues such as itchy, watery eyes or nose, sneezing, coughing, and even headaches can all be exacerbated by dusty filters. For optimal breathing, the average air filter should be changed every 30 to 60 days.
2. Ductwork: Mold
Mold is perhaps one of the more dangerous seasonal allergens. If left untreated, mold can creep through dirty ductwork, spreading spores throughout your home. The worst part? You don’t even need a mold allergy to be affected. Typically, a person will experience headaches and dizziness from exposure. Those with upper respiratory diseases and compromised immune systems can expect more serious reactions.
It isn’t necessary to regularly service air ducts; however, a precautionary professional cleaning at the beginning of allergy season is bound to help many homeowners – especially in Florida where indoor mold is common.
3. Drain Pans and Condensation Lines: Humidity
While humidity alone isn’t exactly an allergen, it can be a trigger. Florida outdoors is humid enough; your home shouldn’t be a petri dish for wet weather, as well. Too much moisture can cause mold to develop, making the transportation of dust and other particles even easier.
Humidity can also trigger sicknesses that mimic allergies. This response is most often known as non-allergic rhinitis: a condition that causes congestion and sneezing just the same as other seasonal allergies.
Leaky drain pains and clogged condensation lines can cycle damp air through your AC’s vents, leading to a humid home and future allergy-like symptoms.
AC repair and maintenance is key to keeping your home allergen-free. Do you have a case of the sniffles? Check out our EZ Breezy Club, and contact Easy AC today for more information on our low-cost AC tune-ups and Tampa AC repair.