Allergy Sufferers: 3 Aircon Tips to Boost Your Indoor Air Quality

It’s usually best to change your aircon filters every three months. However, as with many aircon tips, that’s just a general rule of thumb. If you notice your filters getting dirty substantially earlier, replace them sooner.Additionally, you should consider using a filter with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating of at least 8. A high-quality filter will trap tiny particles, further improving your indoor air quality. We’d be happy to recommend the ideal filter for your needs if you’re not sure which to choose.

2. Keep the Unit Clean

Regularly inspecting your system is another essential aircon maintenance tip worth remembering. Although it’s best to schedule annual inspections with professionals to ensure your aircon remains in good working order (and doesn’t break down without warning when you need it most), you should also make a point of visually inspecting it yourself from time to time. You want to make sure there aren’t any obvious signs of damage or leaks.

Pay attention to whether the system appears dirty when inspecting it. If you notice dust or debris accumulating around the outside of the aircon, clean it away. This dust and debris could work its way inside the system if you ignore it. When that happens, the aircon may distribute it throughout your home, which is definitely something anyone with allergies wants to avoid. Remember to clean your dust vents and registers too.

3. Upgrade Your HVAC System

Exposure to bacteria makes virtually anyone uncomfortable to at least some degree. However, those who are allergic to mold and bacteria can experience quite severe reactions if they’re exposed to it.Bacteria tend to develop in moist environments. Thus, you need to keep the humidity levels in your home relatively low.

Your air conditioning system will help you do so by ensuring you don’t have to keep the windows open to maintain a comfortable temperature at certain times of the year. If your air conditioning system isn’t working properly, there may be days when you decide you need to open your windows and doors to adjust your home’s temperature. This increases the odds that rain may get inside, resulting in the kind of moist environments where mold and bacteria develops. That’s not something you need to worry about when you’re able to keep the windows closed thanks to a functioning air conditioning system.

(Keep in mind that you should be on the lookout for moist or damp areas when inspecting your aircon. If you notice any issues, contact an aircon expert to determine what might be causing the problem.)

However, to truly keep your home’s humidity levels in a safe range, you may want to upgrade your air conditioning system by installing a whole-home humidifier that integrates with your ductwork as well. Doing so will allow you to exercise a greater degree of control over your home’s humidity levels. Again, we’d be more than happy to make a recommendation if you’re not sure where to start.

 

Original Article: https://www.easyac.net/home-air-quality-articles/air-filter-facts.html