An air conditioner’s primary purpose is to cool your home, not purify the air. Even so, an AC unit can significantly improve air quality in your home if the unit is properly maintained.
How an AC Unit Works
An AC unit sucks warm air into a filter. The air cools down after passing over a cold coil, after which it is blown back into the room via the AC vents. In the process, the air passes through the AC unit’s filters. These filters remove a great deal of debris that would otherwise pollute your indoor air. Dust, mites, small bugs, and other debris are typically caught in ordinary filters; however, stronger HEPA filters can even trap bacteria and cigarette smoke.
How to Help Your AC Unit Keep Your Air Clean
If you need top-tier performance from your AC unit, follow the tips listed below to ensure your air is as clean and pure as you need it to be.
- Change the filters regularly.
An allergy-free person living alone may be able to get away with changing filters only twice a year. On the other hand, replacing your A/C filter every month is a must if you live with others, have a pet in the home, and/or suffer from allergies. - Clean the evaporator coil every year.
Some units make it possible for homeowners to do this without professional help. In other instances, an HVAC technician will need to do the job. - Have the unit maintained by a professional.
HVAC experts recommend having the unit checked once in the spring and once in the fall. An HVAC technician will make sure the unit is working properly to ensure your air quality remains pure during the hot summer months. - Check the ductwork.
If the air coming through your unit is dusty, chances are your ducts may need to be tightened or repaired. If the air stinks, there may be mold growth in the ducts or even the AC unit itself. - Replace an old unit.
The average AC unit only lasts for up to 20 years. Investing in a new unit will not only improve air quality but also lower your utility bills.
An air conditioning unit that is properly maintained will last longer and provide cleaner, cooler air than a unit that has not been properly cared for. At Knight’s Mechanical, we take pride in offering fast, effective service that will meet or even exceed your expectations. Get in touch with us to learn more about our services or to make an appointment with one of our experienced HVAC technicians at your convenience.