Is the Filter of Your AC Making You Sick?
May 4th, 2021The warmer months aren’t far away, which means you’ll be using your air conditioning soon (if you aren’t already). It’s important to make sure that your AC unit is in good working order before you start using it over the summer. One thing that many people neglect when it comes to their AC units is the filter. In fact, if you’re often sick in the summer months, it may be related to your AC filter.
How Dirty AC Filters Lead to Problems
If not properly managed, the air inside of your home becomes polluted with many of the same contaminants as outside. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, dirty AC filters may contribute to increased difficulty with allergies or asthma while inside.
Your air conditioning filter is designed to catch particles such as allergens, dust, and dander. If you don’t regularly change your filter, it will no longer be catching these particles anymore and they will begin to build up. You’ll then be inhaling all of these particles, which can potentially aggravate allergies or asthma.
Changing the filter on your AC unit is simple. Some filters are housed behind the primary register, while others are within the unit. Once you have located the filter, look at the sides of it. The size of the filter will be listed so you can buy a replacement. You could also bring the old filter to the store. An employee should be able to help find the right replacement.
When to Change Your Air Conditioning Filter
Ideally, you should change your once a month. This can be extended under some circumstances. For instance, less air will pass through the filter in smaller homes, so you could go a bit longer. However, the longer you wait, the more of an issue it may become for allergies or asthma. If you begin to notice your allergies flaring up inside your house or are having difficulties with congestion, you should change your AC filter to see if it helps.
Some filters boast that they last for up to three months. This may be true in some circumstances, but you should still check the filter once a month for heavy buildup.
Further Reducing Indoor Air Pollution
If you have severe asthma or allergies, it may be a good idea to go with a HEPA filter, as they are designed to catch very small particles. These filters can help to reduce pet dander, allergens, and dust. Vacuuming regularly and grooming your pet outdoors can also help keep these types of particles out of the air in your home.
Island Comfort Is Here for All of Your HVAC Needs
If you are looking for HVAC services in Hawaii, contact Island Comfort Air Conditioning. We are a family-owned air conditioning and heating company that operates on Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island. We want to ensure that you and your family are comfortable no matter what the season may be. Give us a call today so we can help fulfill your heating or cooling needs.