Do you turn on the air conditioning and find yourself coughing and or sneezing? This is a sign that you can be allergic to the quality of the air circulating your home via your air conditioning unit. Several airborne allergens could be to blame. Air conditioners can spread bacteria, allergens and viruses.
A few symptoms of air contamination can include:
- Runny eyes & nose
- Sneezing or Sniffling
- Coughing
- Soar or Itchy Throat
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Asthma
- Rhinitis
- Shortness of Breath
Pollen allergies: Triggers allergic reactions, which affect the sinus and respiratory tract of allergy sufferers. Symptoms can include watery eyes, runny nose, rhinitis, sore throat, coughing, increased mucous, headaches and asthma.
Pet allergies: People with pet allergies can react to harmless proteins in the pet’s urine, saliva or dander (dead skin cells). If your nose runs, your eyes water or you start sneezing and wheezing after petting a dog or cat, you may have a pet allergy. Your AC unit can circulate pet dander, resulting in allergy symptoms. It can be minimized by bathing your pets regularly.
Mold and mildew: If you suspect that mold is in your AC unit, turn it off so no more mold spores can circulate and contaminate your home. Mold has a tendency to grow inside air conditioners that sit unused for a while, especially during the winter months. Call a professional to inspect your AC unit to determine the extent of the problem.
Airborne Viruses & Bacteria: Viruses and bacteria are transmitted through the air. These are transmitted via a person through their breath by sneezing, coughing, and through phlegm. Your AC unit can circulate them, causing you to become sick.
Treating indoor air pollutants
If you feel ill as a result of indoor air contamination, here are a few things you should do to treat your home:
- Have your AC ducts professionally cleaned regularly.
- Inspect for mold and have removed and cleaned.
- Replace air filters on a monthly basis.
- Air duct cleaning, because they directly affect air quality.
- Clean around your outdoor ac unit.
- Clean intake and output vents.
- Invest in an air purifier.
- If you have pets, bathe them often to reduce pet dander.
There are many possible things that can cause airborne contaminants in your home. Our Air Filtration professionals can help you remove many airborne contaminants from your home. Start breathing better today by contacting CoolPro Heating and Cooling to schedule your air duct cleaning.
