Indoor air quality can be compromised by air conditioner maintenance issues, and lifestyle choices. You can play an active role in improving the air you breathe while indoors.
Change the air filter regularly
Every system has recommended filters and replacement periods. How often you need to change the filters depends on both your system’s recommendations, how many people live in your home, and the area you live in.
Check your system’s maintenance manual for a guideline. Often the recommendation is every 4-6 weeks in the winter and monthly in the summer. If you aren’t sure, just look at the filter. The simple rule of thumb is: if it is dirty, change it. Getting the correct size filter will also prevent gaps that could allow air to escape. With a clean filter, your system will run more efficiently and your air will improve.
There are other factors that will influence whether or not you’ll need to replace your filter more often:
- If someone in your house has allergies or asthma
- If you have furry pets
- The more people who live in your house, the more often you’ll need to change the filter.
- If you live on a busy street
- If there is construction nearby causing dust.
- If the outdoor air is regularly smoggy – you’ll likely have more particulates in your air
Get rid of dust and dander
Regular dusting, vacuuming, and pet grooming can go a long way to improving air quality. It may seem basic – but sometimes we forget that the air filters are sucking up everything in the air. The sooner you capture any of the particulates on the front end, the less likely you will be breathing them in later. This will not only help your HVAC system, but it will also help allergies and asthma sufferers. It will also deter mold growth if you find yourself with a moisture condition.
- When you vacuum, be sure to vacuum in and around your vents and air intakes in the floor or ceiling as well.
- Regular pet grooming can reduce floating fur, and can reduce pet dander. Both these items will eventually end up in your filter.
Check for Mold
Mold can grow where ever there is a “food source” (think dust, leaves, debris), and moisture. Homes with too much humidity are prone to mold. Places where water is not properly draining can also invite mold. Places to look for evidence of mold are the filter, the air intake, AC condenser grills, drip pans, or condensate drains. Some of these can be easy to remediate, others might require an Allied Technician for diagnosis and resolution of the issue.
If you see mold, it’s important to find the reason for the mold growth before you tackle any form of remediation. Sometimes this is fairly simple – other times, you will want professional help, particularly if it is in your ductwork.
For long term solutions to mold issues, talk to your Allied representative about systems you can add to your current system to prevent future mold growth. Options include UV Filters that can eliminate a significant portion of particulate matter in the interior of your home.
Knowing you have quality indoor air can help everyone in your home breathe easier.
