Health Problems Caused by a Dirty AC

Indoor air quality can have significant and lasting effects on your health and that of your family. While most people think of big cities when they envision air pollution, the effects are just as noticeable in our homes. It’s important to ensure the quality of the air we breathe, as doing so will prevent serious issues. Here are five of the most common health problems caused by a dirty HVAC system.

Allergies

If your home’s AC is dirty, it may make allergies worse. An allergy may be triggered by several things, such as pollen and plants, but air quality is another culprit. When the air inside a home is dirty, it contains more allergens.

The fastest and easiest way to improve indoor air quality is to clean the AC unit. Changing the filter is a great place to start and, if you want custom air filters, Filter King has them. Follow that step by cleaning the outside of the unit, removing the dust from vents, and having the ductwork cleaned. These steps will remove numerous airborne allergens and keep them from spreading throughout the home.

Fatigue

Indoor air quality also affects stamina and endurance. The harder a person works to get clean air into their body, the more quickly they will become fatigued. Not only does contaminated air lead to an increase in allergies, but it also brings asthma attacks, nasal congestion, and other respiratory issues. When the body struggles to breathe, it tires more easily.

Skin Dryness and Irritation

Low-quality indoor air affects the skin in two ways: low humidity and airborne pollutants. Dry air reduces skin moisture because of constant exposure, while contaminants may irritate the skin. While it’s possible to eliminate many of these irritants through sweating and showering, that may make the skin dry.

Airborne Sicknesses

A dirty HVAC system is the perfect breeding ground for viruses and bacteria. Once germs enter the system, they may get stuck in any buildup that’s in the ductwork or the air handler. The pump is also vulnerable, as it contains enough water to harbor multiplying bacteria. Viruses can also become trapped, leading to serious illness.

An air conditioning system can spread viruses and bacteria throughout the home, increasing the likelihood that your family will get sick. If it’s happening to you, change the filter first and, if that doesn’t work, consider scheduling a thorough system cleaning.

Noise Pollution

While it’s not as common as airborne illnesses, allergies, and skin irritation, it is possible to experience hearing issues due to a dirty AC. A contaminated system may generate enough noise to cause ear strain and eventual hearing damage. Because a dirty system doesn’t run efficiently, it will gradually become louder and stop working as it should.

Furthermore, airborne pollutants can damage your family’s eardrums with continual exposure. If your home’s air conditioner is making too much noise, get it checked.

Clean Your AC for Better Health

If you or a family member are experiencing health problems with no identifiable cause, have your air conditioning system checked by a licensed and certified technician. AC techs can tell you whether your system needs repairs, and they may be able to offer clues as to whether it’s causing your health problems. When your AC filter and the rest of the system are clean, your entire family can breathe easier and be healthier.