Living here in Central Florida where it’s hot and humid nine months of the year, air conditioning is likely your best friend. But did you know that while an air conditioner may keep you cool, a poorly maintained AC can make you sick? While a well-functioning AC can improve comfort and air quality, neglecting routine maintenance can result in a range of health issues tied to indoor air quality, mold growth, and respiratory problems.
Your air conditioner might be a hidden health hazard!
How Air Conditioners Affect Indoor Air Quality
Air conditioning units play a crucial role in regulating your home’s temperature, but they also impact the quality of the air you breathe. Systems functioning at maximum efficiency filter out dust, allergens, and pollutants.
If your system is clogged with dirt, has accumulated moisture, or has not been adequately maintained, it can do the opposite. Instead of filtering out harmful pollutants, it circulates dangerous contaminants through your living spaces.
Indoor Air Pollution: A Growing Concern
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air pollution can be two to five times worse than outdoor air pollution. In some cases, it can be up to 100 times worse, particularly in homes with poor ventilation or outdated air conditioning systems.
This is a scary fact because “Breathing is really important!”
Indoor air pollution gets worse when wildfires or chemical spills happen in the outside world and infiltrate your home through open windows and doors.
Pollutants such as dust mites, pollen, pet dander, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and bacteria can accumulate in your AC system, eventually being recirculated in your home’s air. This can contribute to allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems.
The Hidden Threat of Mold
One of the biggest culprits in air-conditioning-related health issues is mold. Air conditioning units work by pulling warm, moist air out of your home and cooling it. If the moisture isn’t properly drained or the system isn’t cleaned regularly, it can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Mold spores can spread through your ductwork, entering the air you breathe. Exposure to mold can cause a wide range of health issues, from mild allergic reactions to more severe respiratory conditions.
Coughing, wheezing, and nasal congestion can all be caused by improperly maintained air conditions. So can eye and skin irritations, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that exposure to mold can worsen pre-existing conditions like asthma and other lung diseases, particularly in those who are immunocompromised.
Air conditioners can harbor several types of mold and bacteria especially if they are not properly maintained. Here are some common types:
Mold Types
Aspergillus: This is a common indoor mold that can grow in air conditioning systems. It appears in assorted colors, including green, yellow, and black. Aspergillus can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues, particularly in people with weakened immune systems1.
Cladosporium: This mold is often found in HVAC systems and can appear green, brown, or black. It is common and can cause allergic reactions and asthma symptoms.
Stachybotrys: Also known as “black mold,” Stachybotrys is greenish-black and is one of the most notorious molds due to its potential health risks. It thrives in damp, humid environments and can cause severe respiratory issues.
Bacteria Is Bothersome, Too
In addition to mold, bacteria and viruses can thrive in a poorly maintained air conditioning system. Stagnant water in drip pans, clogged filters, and dirty coils are all prime locations for bacteria to flourish.
Remember Legionnaire’s Disease, named from an illness that broke out during an American Legion convention in Philadelphia, 1976?
Legionella is a type of bacteria that causes this illness. Legionella exists in AC systems that haven’t been properly cleaned. While this is rare in residential units, it’s a more common issue in larger commercial systems or older units.
Pseudomonas: This type of bacteria can grow in the moist environments of air conditioning systems. It can cause infections, particularly in people with compromised immune systems.
Mycobacterium: These bacteria can also thrive in air conditioning systems, especially in the presence of stagnant water. They can cause respiratory infections and other health issues.
Preventive Measures
Change Air Filters Regularly
Your AC filter is your first line of defense against airborne pollutants. A dirty or clogged filter will not only reduce your system's efficiency but can also circulate dust, mold spores, and allergens throughout your home.
How often should you change your air filter? The honest answer...
Carefully consider the kind of filters you choose to use. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can capture up to 99.97% of airborne particles, including mold spores and dust.
No matter what kind of filter is best for you, you can purchase filters directly from ServiceOne Air Conditioning and Plumbing, the locally-owned, family-owned business you can trust! They will be delivered right to your door.
Schedule Routine Professional Maintenance with ClubOne Membership
Annual tune-ups by a professional HVAC technician are crucial for catching early signs of mold, mildew, or bacterial growth. Technicians will clean evaporator and condenser coils, check drainage lines, and ensure that the system is free of contaminants.
Research shows that regular AC maintenance can reduce the risk of airborne contaminants by up to 50%.
ServiceOne offers regular maintenance and Precision Tune-Ups through our ClubOne Membership – along with lots of perks!
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Your AC should work in conjunction with proper ventilation to ensure fresh air is circulating in your home. Stagnant, recirculated air can increase the concentration of pollutants. Make sure your home has proper ventilation by occasionally opening windows or using exhaust fans, particularly in areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Check to make sure that no furniture is blocking vents.
Clean Ductwork and Vents
Your ductwork can become a reservoir for dust, mold, and bacteria. Periodically cleaning your ducts and vents can prevent the recirculation of harmful pollutants.
According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), air ducts should be cleaned every 3 to 5 years, or more frequently if there are signs of mold, pests, or extensive dust buildup.
Address Leaks and Moisture Problems
Since moisture is a key factor in mold growth, any leaks in your AC system or ductwork should be addressed immediately. Check for standing water in drain pans or around the base of your unit and ensure that condensate lines are clear and functioning properly.
Stay Cool and Healthy
While air conditioning can be a lifesaver during hot summer months, a poorly maintained system could pose health risks to your household. Regular maintenance, cleaning, and attention to indoor air quality are essential for keeping you safe.
Maintaining your AC isn’t just about comfort, it’s about health. Don’t let your air conditioner be a health hazard!
Call ServiceOne.