Your HVAC system does more than keep your home comfortable throughout the year. It can also have a significant impact on your health if it doesn’t perform properly. Scheduling regular maintenance and performing air conditioning and heating repairs promptly is key to preventing issues that could threaten your comfort. Below are three ways the system can impact your health. 

How Do HVAC Systems Impact Health?

1. Air Duct Buildup

The longer that you go without cleaning the air ducts, the more likely that dust, dirt, and debris will accumulate inside. That’s problematic because both the air conditioner and heating system push air through the ductwork to cool or heat the home. The air travels through the ducts to the air vents to meet your desired temperature. Breathing contaminated air may cause allergy symptoms, such as congestion and headaches, among some people. Cleaning the ducts regularly is key to preventing pollutants from recirculating.

2. Dirty Filter Contamination

It’s not unusual for homeowners to neglect this step, but it’s key to replace the HVAC system’s air filter at least once every three months. You should change it even more frequently if you have a pet. The filter effectively captures dust and debris, but over time it will become clogged. That not only forces your system to work harder, but it can also aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms due to fewer harmful particulates being filtered. For the greatest health benefits, opt for a filter with a high minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV. It will remove small contaminants efficiently and thoroughly. 

3. Potential Refrigerant Leak

It’s crucial to schedule air conditioning repairs if the unit isn’t cooling properly or your energy bills skyrocket suddenly. It can happen if there’s a refrigerant leak, which forces the system to work harder than necessary to cool the home. More critically, refrigerant can make a person sick if it’s inhaled. The chemical is tasteless and odorless, and exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. 
 

Homeowners throughout Baldwin County, AL, trust in the HVAC contractors at Gulf Coast HVAC for all of their heating and cooling needs. Based in Foley, the professionals handle everything from air conditioning repairs to heating installation. They also clean air ducts and offer a variety of solutions, including ventilation and ionizers, to improve the quality of your indoor air. Visit the website to learn more about how they can help, or call them at (251) 955-1054 to schedule an appointment.