Ever wondered how the machine that cools and heats your home can affect your health? We’ll explore seven ways your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system can impact your health. Don’t worry, we’ll keep things simple and easy to understand!
YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR HVAC SYSTEM: WHAT’S THE CONNECTION?
Think of your HVAC system as the lungs of your home. It breathes in and out, controlling the air that you breathe. If it’s working well, you’re likely to be healthy. But if it’s not, you could face health problems. Let’s see how.
HOW YOUR HVAC SYSTEM CAN MAKE YOU SICK
- Bad Air Quality: If your HVAC system is like the lungs of your home, what if those lungs are dirty? An unclean or poorly maintained HVAC system can lead to poor air quality, filling your home with dust and pollutants. This dirty air can trigger allergies and make respiratory problems worse. It’s a bit like living in a smoggy city, right inside your home!
- Hot and Cold Fluctuations: Imagine a day that’s boiling hot and then freezing cold. Sounds uncomfortable, right? That’s what it’s like when your HVAC system isn’t working properly. These temperature swings can stress your body, making you more likely to catch colds, flus, and even suffer from heat strokes. It’s important to keep your HVAC system in check to avoid this roller coaster ride of temperatures.
- Wrong Humidity Levels: Your HVAC system does more than just heat and cool the air. It also controls how dry or damp that air is. If the air is too dry, you might notice your skin becoming dry and itchy. If the air is too damp, it can feel harder to breathe and mold may start to grow. It’s a bit like living in a scorching desert or a swamp – neither is very comfortable!
- Airborne Germs: Just like a fan can spread the smell of a delicious cake through your home, your HVAC system can spread tiny germs in the air. If your HVAC system isn’t cleaned regularly, these germs can build up and spread diseases. It’s important to keep your HVAC system clean to keep these invisible invaders at bay.
- Carbon Monoxide: Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas that you can’t see or smell. It can come from faulty heating systems and can cause headaches, dizziness, and in severe cases, even death. Regular checks of your heating system can prevent this silent but deadly risk.
- Mold and Mildew: Mold and mildew love damp places, and a poorly maintained HVAC system can create just the right environment for them. Not only are they unsightly and smelly, but they can also cause allergies and breathing problems. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system can keep your home dry and mold-free.
- Dust and Allergens: You might have seen dust floating in a ray of sunshine. Now, imagine that inside your lungs! A HVAC system that’s not cleaned regularly can spread dust and allergens around your home, making allergies worse and causing respiratory problems. Regular cleaning can help keep your home – and your air – clean.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR HVAC SYSTEM
You might have some questions about your HVAC system and how it relates to your health. Here are some simple answers:
- How often should my HVAC system be checked?
Your HVAC system should be checked at least once a year. It’s best to do this before the weather gets really hot or cold to ensure you stay safe and comfortable during the extreme weather months. - What signs show that my HVAC system might be causing health problems?
If you’re sneezing more, having trouble breathing, or getting sick often, your HVAC system might be the culprit. - What steps can I take to maintain my HVAC system between professional services?
You can replace your air filters regularly, usually every 1-3 months. You can also keep the outdoor unit of your HVAC system clear of leaves, grass, and other debris. And, try to keep your home’s humidity level comfortable to prevent mold growth.
Contact J-MAC to learn about our affordable maintenance plan and see how regular maintenance from our team could prevent long-lasting health issues.
