If you’re having allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, sore throat, and wheezing, it might be more than the pollen count. It could also be your air conditioner failing to scrub the air of the allergens that are making you miserable. A little maintenance and regular checkups can improve the quality of your indoor air.
Mind Your Filters
Your AC filters are not just one of the most important parts of your system. They’re also the easiest to maintain. Changing the filters is one of your responsibilities as an HVAC owner. A filter that’s full of gunk not only stresses the entire system but sends pollutants into your indoor air.
Make Sure the Condensate Drain Line Is Clear
Any air conditioning system, even a window unit, produces condensate as part of how it operates. The condensate then drains to the outside. If the line that carries it outside is clogged with mold or algae, the condensate can drip back into your house. This can lead to indoor mold that can worsen your allergies.
Keep the Condenser and Evaporator Coils Clean
It’s important that your AC’s condenser and evaporator work well. This means, like other parts of the system, they need to be kept clean and well-maintained. Allergens can build up on their coils. When this happens, not only does your AC need to strain to work the way it should, but pollutants, including allergens, enter your home.
Have an HVAC Pro Check the Ducts
If your AC system uses ductwork, chances are you probably don’t see it. This makes it easy to ignore. Neglected ductwork is just the thing for the accumulation of allergens. Make sure you engage an HVAC professional regularly to check your ductwork. The technician makes sure it’s airtight and free of dust, mold, and other debris.
Upgrade Your AC System
If you’ve had your AC for a while and it’s within your budget, you might want to upgrade your system. HVAC systems are now far more efficient than they were even a few years ago. For example, there are now HEPA filters for your AC. These filters can catch particles that can only be seen under a microscope. You can also have a professional install a whole-home purifier, which destroys pollutants that cause your allergy symptoms to flare up.
Make Sure to Schedule Maintenance
Of course, whether you suffer from allergies or not, you should have an HVAC tech check your system at least once a year. Some people have the system checked twice—once before the cooling season, and again before the heating season.
A bit of prevention can go a long way in relieving your seasonal allergy miseries. If you live in Mount Holly, NJ or a surrounding area and need AC maintenance services, make your first call to Raynor Services.
