Most people associate fall and winter months with changing weather and allergy season. That’s because, as the weather changes, more people present flu-like symptoms and allergies. Before you know it, you’re suddenly sick. But, what if pollination and the flu aren’t the cause of your running nose? What if instead, it’s your AC system… is that even possible?
Can an unmaintained AC breed more germs?
You’ve probably heard that cold weather isn’t what makes people sick – it’s the bacteria and germs that are drivers in creating the cold and flu-like symptoms. The same applies to your air conditioner. If your AC unit isn’t properly maintained and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, then it will redistribute those things back into the air you breathe.
The same applies to the air already in your home. Your HVAC system works by pulling in humid air, cooling it, and redistributing it to your home. If you or a loved one are sick and creating bacteria into the air, or if your bathroom is producing moisture that is growing mold and other germs, then your AC system will cool and redistribute the toxic air throughout your home – causing you or other healthy loved ones to become sick.
Signs that Your AC is Making You Sick
While the most common sign that your AC unit is making you sick includes cold or flu-like symptoms, there are other signs and conditions that may occur. Other symptoms include:
- Breathing problems
- Headaches and dizziness
- Dry skin and nasal passages
- Heat intolerance
- Weight gain
- Raised blood pressure
How can you prevent bacteria from growing in your AC?
1. Install UV light
One of the quickest ways to prevent bacteria from growing in your AC unit is to install an ultraviolet light. UV light is one of the most effective ways of killing bacteria, which is why most doctors will use it to disinfect while preparing for surgery. By buying an AC unit with UV lighting or calling an HVAC technician to install UV lights within your AC, you can help minimize pathogens that enter or grow inside your system.
2. Clean the AC coils and pipes
Moisture tends to accumulate around your evaporator coils and condensate drain pipes. By routinely cleaning these areas, you can prevent mold and other bacteria from growing. For extra help, contact an HVAC technician to conduct routine maintenance on your AC once or twice a year.
3. Monitor moisture-prone areas
If there are portions of your house that tend to produce more moisture — including areas like your bathroom and kitchen — monitor these places more closely to identify mold, mildew, and other bacteria before it has a chance to spread. Use a dehumidifier or exhaust fans to help alleviate moisture and reduce the risk of buildup.
4. Disinfect contaminated rooms/areas
When a loved one is sick, you want to do everything you can to make them feel better. But, one of the most overlooked things you can do is to disinfect rooms your loved one has visited or commonly used spaces. By using a disinfecting spray or disinfecting wipes, you can reduce the number of germs caused by illnesses and prevent toxic air from being redistributed throughout your home.
AC Service in Brevard County
At Colman, we can help you eliminate bacteria with routine maintenance checks as well as troubleshoot air conditioning issues. We also have a 24/7 AC emergency line. Call us if you need assistance ASAP, or if you need to schedule routine HVAC maintenance.
24-HR Emergency Service: (321) 269-4565
