As a homeowner, you depend on your air conditioner to keep your home cool all summer. That’s why regular AC maintenance is so important; no one wants to be left in a sweat—literally—if the AC breaks down.
But did you know that regular AC maintenance can also improve your indoor air quality? In fact, your indoor air quality can be up to 5x more polluted than the outdoor air. Why? Because there is less air circulation inside compared to outside, exposing you to dust mites, pet dander, and mould spores—all of which have a direct effect on your health and can cause headaches, allergies, and serious heart and respiratory issues.
In this article, we explore how regular AC maintenance can improve your indoor air quality.
Understanding the Relationship Between AC Systems and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
Your AC system plays a vital role in maintaining your indoor air quality (IAQ). When your AC system is functioning properly, it can help filter out pollutants, allergens, and other harmful particles from the air in your home or office. However, if your system is not regularly maintained or has a buildup of contaminants, it can lead to poor indoor air quality and even health issues.
AC units not only cool your home but they also remove excess moisture from the air, which helps control humidity levels. High humidity creates an ideal environment for mould and mildew to thrive, which can lead to significant health risks, including respiratory issues and allergic reactions. Regular AC maintenance ensures that your unit efficiently removes excess moisture, keeping mould growth at bay and ensuring a healthier indoor environment.
Common AC Components That Can Affect Your Air Quality
Air conditioners come in different sizes and styles but they all operate similarly. There are three main components of an AC that require regular maintenance to ensure high-quality indoor air. These include the air filters, evaporator coils, and ductwork.
Air Filters
Air filters clean and purify the air that flows through your AC. From dust and debris to pet hair and pollen, air filters capture a wide range of irritants that would otherwise remain in your home’s atmosphere. High-efficiency particulate Air (HEPA) filters, in particular, are highly effective at trapping very fine particles, substantially reducing the amount of dust and allergens in your home. This not only helps to improve the overall air quality but can also enhance the efficiency of your AC, leading to lower energy bills and longer-lasting equipment.
Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coil in your AC unit, responsible for cooling the air, can be a potential breeding ground for mould and bacteria if not properly maintained. Working with the condenser coil, the evaporator coil primarily reduces moisture in the air. Regularly cleaning your evaporator coil prevents microbial growth, ensuring the air blowing through your ductwork is clean.
Ductwork
Your AC’s ductwork can accumulate dust, dander, and other pollutants over time. One important aspect of an annual AC maintenance check is to ensure the ductwork isn’t blocked. As the air is dispersed through the ductwork, a build-up of dirt or dust can adversely affect the quality of the air. Furthermore, particles within the ductwork can be circulated throughout the rooms.
Consequences of Neglecting AC Maintenance
Without regularly scheduled AC maintenance, the air quality in your home can quickly become compromised. As the air filters, coils, ductwork, and other intricate parts of the AC system can directly affect your health, it is important to be aware of the potential consequences of neglect.
Clogged Filters
Dirty filters not only restrict airflow, making your system work harder (thus increasing energy costs) but also reduce the AC’s ability to capture pollutants, directly affecting your home’s air quality.
Mould Growth
A neglected AC unit can contribute to a humid environment, ideal for mould growth. Mould and mildew both need moisture or water to thrive. As an air conditioner is designed to draw in moisture from the air, without regular maintenance and cleaning, mould can develop quickly.
Increased Allergens
A dirty AC unit can recirculate trapped allergens and pollutants throughout your home, reducing the air quality. As airborne dust, dirt, mould, pollen, and other allergens build up in your ductwork, it can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems.
Benefits of Regular AC Maintenance
Regular AC maintenance can prevent serious issues from arising. Not only will this save you money in the long run by not needing extensive repairs but it can also support good health.
Cleaner Air
Scheduling AC services with comprehensive maintenance checks can have a positive impact on your health. A well-maintained AC system provides improved filtration and reduces allergens, significantly benefiting your respiratory health and reducing allergy symptoms.
Reduced Mould Growth
Regular maintenance helps keep humidity and, consequently, mould growth under control, contributing to a healthier indoor atmosphere. Condensation trays, evaporator coils, and filters should all be cleaned and disinfected to prevent moisture buildup.
Improved Comfort
Beyond the air quality benefits, arranging AC maintenance in Toronto will ensure optimal airflow and efficient temperature control, making your living space more comfortable. An inspection and maintenance checkup by a reputable AC service provider can potentially prevent sudden breakdowns, not to mention save you money on costly repairs.
Implementing a Regular AC Maintenance Schedule
While a spring AC maintenance checkup is recommended before you officially turn on your AC for the summer, it’s recommended to perform certain maintenance tasks at different intervals—monthly, quarterly, and annually. Staying consistent with these efforts and working with HVAC professionals for more technical checks ensures your AC system supports your IAQ goals.
Breathe Easy with Econoair: Schedule AC Maintenance Today!
Air conditioner maintenance with Econoair Heating and Cooling Inc. provides more than just peace of mind that your unit will work throughout the hot summer days and nights. Our highly trained technicians offer comprehensive diagnostics services for a variety of air conditioner makes and models. We also have a 24/7 contact line for emergencies. Contact us at (905) 763-2400 or request a quote here.