If you suffer from allergies, you know just how irritating symptoms can be when you’re trying to enjoy the warm, sunny days of late spring and summer. If you still experience symptoms even when indoors, your air conditioner may be the culprit. To learn how your breathing supply became contaminated and what you can do to fix it, consider the following informative guide.

How Can an Air Conditioner Provoke Allergies?

As you come into contact with dirt, pollen, and bacteria outside, they stick to your shoes, skin, hair, and clothes. These pollutants then hitch a ride into your home. Over time, a significant amount of allergens will accumulate in your carpet fibers and upholstery. Dust, dead skin cells, and pet dander from inside will collect as well, settling on floors, furnishings, and other surfaces. These particles will become airborne and will be distributed around your indoor air supply. 

Once they enter your ductwork, they will circle throughout your whole-home HVAC system, moving through different rooms and zones in your house. If your air conditioner filter is clean, it will be able to trap most of these particles, so they’re removed from your indoor air supply. However, over time, the buildup on the filter will get thicker and thicker, until air can no longer pass through. 

As a result, allergens will start recirculating through your home, causing allergic and asthmatic reactions. You’ll likely notice respiratory issues, such as sneezing, coughing, wheezing, and red or irritated eyes. You may also experience symptoms on your skin, such as dry, itchy patches, or rashes. Some people also experience headaches and fatigue if dust, mold, and mildew are present.

How Can I Fix This Issue?

If your filter is dirty or clogged, you should remove and clean it, or dispose of and replace it. Wear gloves and a breathing mask or respirator while you do this. The filter should be cleared at least once every three months or even as often as once monthly, if you have pets or acute sensitivities. However, if you’ve waited too long to clean your filter, the allergens could be stuck in your ductwork, clinging to the sides of the passageways. As a result, even more particles will latch onto the buildup, sometimes leading to mold growth inside ducts and vents. To get rid of this, you’ll need to hire a professional to inspect your system and clean out your ductwork. 

If you’re tired of dealing with allergies at home, get in touch with B & C Heating & Air Conditioning of Magnolia, KY. They have over 13 years of experience providing maintenance services for air conditioners. Whether you’re having trouble breathing or can’t seem to get cool, call them at (270) 268-2902 to schedule an inspection today. Visit the website to learn more about their services.