How to Use Your AC to Achieve Better Indoor Air Quality
Your cooling system has a significant impact on your home’s overall air quality. If you don’t use it strategically, it may end up causing more harm than good each time it cycles on. This article walks you through three must-know tips for achieving better allergy control with your AC.
Change the Filter on a Regular Basis
If you never change the filter on your AC, there’s a good chance it’s contributing to poor indoor air quality. Over time, filters clog with dust, dirt, pet dander, and other allergens. This restricts airflow, making the AC work harder, while also triggering allergies since the filter can no longer effectively capture airborne particles. By replacing the filter regularly, you greatly reduce the risk of contaminants circulating throughout the home.
How often to replace your filters depends entirely on the system (ducted or ductless), whether you have pets in the home, and the overall air quality in your area. Most ducted systems need filter replacement once every one to three months. Ductless mini-split systems often need them more frequently, every two to six weeks. If your AC is compatible, you can use a HEPA filter, which delivers enhanced allergen control with its ability to capture extremely small airborne particles.
Integrate the AC With a Whole-Home Dehumidifier
High humidity creates the perfect conditions for mold and dust mites, both of which are very problematic to people with allergies. The excess moisture in the air also makes the AC work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. If you integrate a whole-home dehumidifier with the cooling equipment, it’ll automatically kick on when it detects elevated humidity levels. By removing the extra moisture, the home will feel cooler, you’ll breathe easier, and the HVAC system will run more efficiently.
Consider a Whole-Home Air Purifier
A whole-home air purifier is another type of air quality system that can work directly with the AC to deliver cleaner air throughout the entire house. There are several types available, including UV lights, electronic air cleaners, and activated carbon filtration systems. Some versions use sensors to detect airborne contaminants, and others activate every time the AC runs. UV lights are especially advantageous for your overall wellness because of their ability to help neutralize mold, bacteria, and certain viruses.
Talking with an indoor air quality specialist is the best move for learning how to use your AC for a healthier indoor environment. Many homes use a combination of humidity control systems and advanced filtration technologies to reduce airborne contaminants and allergens. If you live in Panama City, FL or a surrounding area and need AC installation services, make your first call to Ridge Heating & Air Conditioning.
