Have you noticed a change in your indoor air quality? Do you tend to cough more than you used to? Does anyone in the family suffer from asthma or allergies? If the air inside your home seems stale and stagnant it sounds like it may be time to have your system professionally cleaned by an AC contractor or HVAC company. A dirty system is not efficiently trapping the dust and particles that contribute to low air quality. Call your Austin AC repair contractor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
• Sinus congestion (not related to a cold)
• Headaches
• Eye irritation
• Shortness of breath (not related to health problems)
• Allergies
• Coughing and sneezing
Indoor air quality refers to the state of the air inside your home. Dust, pollen, allergens, mold and microscopic particles in the air make it dirty and can affect the health of the home’s occupants. When someone with asthma or breathing problems is in a dirty environment it makes it harder for them to breathe and they may need medicine more frequently to keep their airways clear of congestion.
People who work in crowded, dirty factories may suffer from a condition known as SBS or Sick Building Syndrome. The air inside these building is often stagnant from a lack of proper ventilation and long-term exposure to the air can cause the person to become ill. The same type of situation can be present in your home as well; poor ventilation and circulation can lead to mold growth and bacteria spreading which can irritate the breathing passages of people with breathing problems.
To ensure the health of your family it is wise to have your air conditioning system cleaned periodically and inspected for damage. Investing in an air purifier may be a good preventative measure as well. These will help but the biggest culprit is your air filter. They should be checked monthly and changed as needed. There are several good types of air filters that have several layers that filter dirt and debris down to the tiniest particles. For those who are concerned about cost or are looking for a greener solution, permanent filters that can be cleaned with a garden hose and replaced may be the right choice.
To keep the air inside your home clean and healthy, change air filters regularly and have your heating and cooling system and ductwork cleaned periodically. If you make these recommended changes and you experience no changes in air quality, it may be time to replace your air conditioning system. ABA Heating and Cooling are HVAC professionals serving Austin and surrounding areas. Contact us today with any questions you may have about air quality or to schedule AC repair in Austin.