Are You Allergic to Your Air Conditioning?

Allergy season drives us all indoors to avoid the allergens in the air, but then we are sniffling and sneezing as soon as the air conditioning turns on. The attacks can seem so severe that these episodes make you wonder: "Are you allergic to your air conditioning?" It's particularly troubling when you see your child coughing and sneezing in the very place that you work so hard to make safe and healthy. The answer is not as simple as you might imagine.

Airflow in Your Home

When you turn on your air conditioner, the stream of cold air stirs up dust particles. It often does a whole lot more than that though. As the airflow pushes cold air through the vents, it pushes allergens from one room to the next, and then out of the vents to cause your allergic reactions. The biggest way that pollen and other allergens get into your air conditioning system is by way of an open window, but you and other members of the household carry pollen into the building on shoes or clothes as well.

Indoor Air Quality

Even if you keep the windows closed, and you are diligent about removing or shaking off the pollen from your hair and clothes, you may find that you and your kids are still sneezing. Since most Americans spend 90% of our time indoors, air quality is a big concern. Inadequate ventilation, as well as dirty or absent air filters, can contribute to an increase in the concentration of pollutants or allergens.

HVAC Problems

If there are dent or holes in your HVAC ductwork system, pollen and other allergens make their way into your air conditioning system more easily. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions, so the ductwork of your HVAC unit is a perfect breeding grounds for tiny, unwanted intruders. Bacteria and viruses survive and travel through the air, particularly in crowded areas with poorly maintained ventilation systems. The cool, damp, and humid air contribute to the spread of colds, influenza, tuberculosis, or coughs.

Prevent Allergies

The best way to prevent allergies is to regularly maintain your HVAC system with the help of a good HVAC company.

  • Regularly clean and replace your air filters during the allergy season.
  • Dust your vents.
  • Keep your outdoor AC unit clear and free of debris, leaves, etc.
  • Call your maintenance service to inspect your HVAC system.
    >> If you do have a mold or mildew problem, hire a professional service to make sure the job is done right. If you do it yourself, you may find that the problem returns right away.
  • Add a dehumidifier to keep your home dry and comfortable.
  • Remove or clean up any standing water. It's important to prevent the growth of bacteria, mildew, mold, etc.
  • A Learning Moment

    While you and your family may not be allergic to the air conditioning, the exploration of the possible causes and effects are a great learning opportunity for your kids. Discuss factors that can affect their allergies, as well as what you're doing to make your home safe and comfortable. It's a bit of a science experiment, but you're also helping them to understand the direct correlation between the environment around them and the way they feel. Those are lessons that will last a lifetime.

    Kristi Cathey
     

    Hi everyone! My name is Kristi Cathey and I’m glad you found your way to my blog. I am a mother of 3 beautiful angels. This blog was created in order to share my personal experiences in baby care and general health care for pregnant women. If you'd like to get in touch with me, please contact me by sending me an email via kristicathey.intelligentmother@gmail.com. Welcome to Intelligentmother.com

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