It’s possible. While a well-maintained cooling system is meant to make your home comfortable, it could be contributing to your health issues. If you’ve been noticing more sneezing, coughing, or general discomfort, your air system could be circulating dust, mold, or even bacteria. Not exactly what you want from a unit that’s supposed to improve air quality, right?
One of the main reasons for this is the build-up of dust and debris inside the system. If filters aren’t changed regularly, these particles end up in the air you breathe. And in Calgary, with its long winters and dry summers, those particles can accumulate quickly. Mold, which thrives in damp environments, can also develop in ducts or on coils if moisture gets trapped in the system. This can lead to respiratory irritation, especially for those with sensitive lungs or pre-existing conditions.
Don’t panic just yet, though–there are steps you can take to address this. Start by ensuring that your system is properly cleaned and maintained. Regular servicing and filter replacements can go a long way in preventing buildup. Consider upgrading to a higher-quality air filter to trap more particles, or even installing a UV light to kill harmful microbes. If you’re unsure whether your system is working as it should, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional who can inspect and clean it for you.
If you’re feeling off and suspect your air system might be at fault, paying attention to these details could make a significant difference in your well-being. Clean air should be just that–clean–and with a little maintenance, you can ensure your cooling system is working for your health, not against it.
How Cooling Systems Can Trigger Sensitivities in Calgary’s Dry Environment
If you’re feeling discomfort, irritation, or even a bit off after turning on the cooling, it might not be just the temperature–it could be the dry, filtered air circulating throughout your space. The low humidity in the area, combined with intense temperature fluctuations, can create an environment that dries out your skin, eyes, and respiratory passages. This dryness can also lead to particles like dust, mold spores, or pet dander becoming airborne, as the system often fails to catch them all.
If you’ve noticed that your symptoms improve when you step outside or take a break from the cold indoors, it’s worth looking into whether your ventilation system is exacerbating the issue. The constant flow of air might not just dry things out but also stir up irritants that would otherwise stay settled.
Try running a humidifier in your home to balance the moisture levels in the air. It can help keep your skin hydrated and reduce the irritation in your nose or throat. Regularly cleaning the filters is also a must to keep dust buildup in check. You could even consider investing in an air purifier to remove finer particles that the filtration system might miss.
If you’re experiencing persistent issues, it might be a good idea to check the settings of your system. Sometimes, reducing the airflow can prevent over-drying. Making these simple changes could provide relief from the discomfort that some people experience in this dry climate.
Common Airborne Allergens That Get Trapped in Cooling Systems
Pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander are the usual suspects that tend to accumulate in cooling units. These particles often get trapped in the filters and ducts, circulating through the system every time it runs. Pollen, especially, is a significant issue during spring and early summer, with tree and grass pollen being the most prevalent. It’s pretty common for these tiny particles to stick to the inner parts of the unit, where they remain until disturbed.
Dust mites are another major culprit. These microscopic pests thrive in warm, humid conditions, making cooling systems an ideal breeding ground. As the system cycles air, they can get spread through the space, irritating the respiratory system. Mold spores, too, are frequently found in ACs. When moisture builds up inside the ducts, it creates the perfect environment for mold to grow. Once disturbed, these spores can spread through the air, triggering various symptoms.
If you have pets, pet dander is a likely issue as well. Even though it’s invisible to the naked eye, it can easily become trapped in the filters or settled in the cooling ducts. Every time the unit operates, these particles get blown back into the living space.
To reduce these allergens, cleaning or replacing filters regularly is essential. It’s also helpful to schedule professional maintenance to ensure that ducts are clear and free from buildup. Just as important–if not more so–is controlling humidity levels. When the air is too moist, allergens thrive. Keeping the moisture in check can make a noticeable difference in air quality. Regularly cleaning the cooling unit and addressing moisture issues is the key to reducing the potential for these allergens to circulate.
Steps to Prevent Allergy Flare-Ups from Cooling Units in Calgary Homes
Regularly cleaning the filters of your system is one of the simplest ways to minimize the risk of triggering sensitivities. Over time, dust and debris build up inside, circulating allergens into your living space. At least once every 1-3 months, depending on usage, clean or replace the filters. It’s not hard to do, and it can make a noticeable difference in the air quality.
Maintain Proper Humidity Levels
Dry air can irritate the respiratory system, while overly humid environments encourage the growth of mold and mildew. Both scenarios are problematic. A smart move would be to invest in a humidifier or dehumidifier, depending on the season. Humidity levels between 30-50% tend to be ideal for most homes.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
When you’re using your cooling system, don’t forget to ventilate the space. Opening a window for a short time or using an exhaust fan can help reduce the buildup of stagnant air. While your system circulates the air, fresh ventilation helps bring in cleaner, more breathable air from outside.
Additionally, it may be helpful to check for any blockages or leaks in the ducts. These can trap dust and other particles that affect air quality. You might not notice them at first, but over time, they can create bigger problems.
Finally, consider using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in your system. HEPA filters are designed to catch smaller particles like pollen and pet dander, improving the overall air quality. They aren’t foolproof, but they do help reduce the amount of irritants in the air. If you’re unsure about which filter to use, a professional can guide you toward the best option for your home setup.
Taking these simple steps can significantly reduce flare-ups and help maintain a cleaner, more comfortable living environment.
Contact “Calgary Air Heating and Cooling Ltd” For More Information:
Address
95 Beaconsfield Rise NW, Calgary, AB T3K 1X3
Phone
+1 403 720-0003
Hours of operation
Open 24 hours 7 days a week