Summertime often means air conditioning is a necessity. However, as temperatures rise and more people turn on their AC units, there is a growing concern about the impact air conditioning has on indoor air quality. So, do air conditioners help with air quality? If so, how effective are they? Let’s go over everything you need to know in more detail below.
Does AC Improve Air Quality?
Air conditioning has become an indispensable part of our lives, especially in hot and humid weather conditions. It is an essential component in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. So, it’s understandable if you’ve been asking yourself: do air conditioners help with air quality?
When it comes down to it, the answer to this question is “somewhat.” AC does improve air quality to some degree — but certainly not to the extent you might think. Many people believe that air conditioners are designed to improve air quality, but this is not the case. Air conditioners are primarily designed to cool indoor spaces, not to purify the air. That said, cooling systems do provide some benefits to indoor air quality, depending on how they’re used.
For starters, air conditioning units can help to filter out some harmful pollutants from outdoor air, such as particulate matter from wildfire smoke. However, indoor air pollution is often a greater concern, and air conditioning units don’t do much to alleviate that problem.
Indoor Air Quality and Your AC System
Indoor air quality is affected by many factors, one of which is the condition of your air conditioning system. If your AC unit isn’t regularly serviced or maintained, it can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, mold, and other contaminants that can be spread throughout your home or business via the air conditioning system.
Moreover, if your windows and doors aren’t properly sealed, outdoor air pollution can make its way into your indoor space. So, while a functioning AC system can help to cool indoor spaces and filter out some harmful pollutants, it’s not a solution to all indoor air quality problems.
Tips for Improving Air Quality
When it comes to improving the air quality in your home, many people turn to air conditioning systems as a solution. Although air conditioners do help with air quality, as we discussed above, they still aren’t the most effective way to achieve cleaner, healthier air. Fortunately, there are several other steps you can take to enhance air quality and breathe easier.
Close Windows & Doors
One of the most basic ways to improve air quality is to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. This simple step can help prevent outdoor pollutants, such as exhaust from passing vehicles or industrial emissions from nearby factories or power plants, from finding their way inside your home. Even if you live in an area with relatively low levels of outdoor pollution, keeping windows and doors closed during periods of high outdoor pollution can go a long way toward improving your indoor air quality.
Maintain Your AC System
Although AC does improve air quality to a certain extent, proper maintenance of your AC system is also crucial to achieving optimal IAQ. Regular cleaning and upkeep of your AC unit help ensure that it’s working at its best and filtering out the maximum number of pollutants. This includes regular replacement of filters, cleaning of the unit’s condenser coils and other components, and inspection of the ductwork and other parts of the system.
A well-maintained AC system not only helps improve indoor air quality but also extends the life of your unit and helps prevent costly repairs down the road. If you think it’s time to schedule your annual air conditioning service in Simi Valley, turn to our experts to book your appointment today.
Invest in IAQ Products
Another way to enhance air quality is to use an air purification system. These products use advanced filters to capture pollutants and particles that might be missed by your air conditioning system alone. While these systems can be pricey, those with respiratory issues or allergies may find the investment well worth it. In fact, studies have shown that air purification systems can significantly reduce indoor levels of common pollutants, making them a valuable asset to any home.
Call RR Electric, Heating & Air for Indoor Air Quality Services
Indoor air quality is one of the main concerns for homeowners — even during the summer when the heat can be oppressive. Many people believe that their air conditioners are able to purify the air and remove harmful pollutants. So, what is the truth? Does AC improve air quality?
All in all, air conditioners do help with air quality — but not to a large extent. You will most likely need a better solution if you’re hoping to achieve clean, healthy air. If you’re concerned about your home’s IAQ, the best thing to do is to call a professional. The experts at RR Electric, Heating & Air can help you assess your indoor air quality, make recommendations on how to improve it, and take the necessary steps to do so.
By scheduling indoor air quality services with RR Electric, Heating & Air, you can take the first steps towards ensuring that the air in your home is safe, clean, and healthy. Our team can provide services, including air purification, air duct cleaning, changing filters, and replacing units as needed. Don’t wait until your air quality is bad; take the first step towards healthier air quality in Simi Valley by calling us today!
