Air Conditioning Improve Indoor Air Quality

Air conditioning is designed to reduce humidity, a leading cause of mold and other indoor health problems. But did you know it can also improve the quality of your home’s indoor air? The answer to this question depends on the type of air conditioner you have and how you use it.

Central and split air conditioners are equipped with filters that collect a wide range of airborne pollutants, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They can also reduce fumes from household cleaners, paint products and gas stoves. These filters can also remove mold spores and bacteria that circulate in the air.

In addition to filtering out common airborne pollutants, many air conditioning systems have built-in humidifiers. These units increase the humidity in your home to a level that helps prevent the growth of mold and other indoor health issues. This humidity control is especially important for homes located in hot, humid climates, where high indoor humidity can lead to mold and mildew.

Humidity control is also important for maintaining healthy skin and reducing the risk of respiratory conditions like asthma. The first modern air conditioning Longmont CO system was invented by Willis Haviland Carrier in 1902. His invention solved a humidity problem at the Sackett-Wilhelms Lithographing and Publishing Company in Brooklyn, N.Y. Paper stock was absorbing moisture from the warm summer air, which made it difficult to apply layered inking techniques required for printing on the papers. Carrier’s solution involved blowing the air across chilled pipes. The cool air was unable to absorb the moisture from the paper stock, and the humidity in the plant dropped significantly.

Can Air Conditioning Improve Indoor Air Quality?

The air conditioning system in your home works by removing the heat from the air inside your house and pushing it outdoors through a series of coils filled with refrigerant. In order to make the process work properly, your air conditioner needs to be in good working condition. Over time, dirt and debris can build up in your unit, which causes it to work less efficiently and may even deteriorate the compressor.

Dirty ducts can also negatively impact indoor air quality. These ducts can recirculate pollutants and allergens that are already in your home, so it’s important to have them cleaned regularly. In addition to professional duct cleaning, you should also have your attic and crawlspace sealed to limit the amount of dust and pollutants that leak into your conditioned space.

In addition to utilizing whole-home air purification systems, you can further improve your indoor air quality by closing all windows and doors when the AC is running. This can help eliminate the influx of pollutants that can be found in newer homes, where air ducts are generally tighter and seal better than older homes. It’s also a great idea to have any open window frames in your home resealed, as this can further help limit the amount of outdoor air that can enter the conditioned space. Finally, making sure you’re getting plenty of exercise, eating well and sleeping soundly are important components to preventing respiratory illnesses and keeping your immune system in tip-top shape.