Enhancing Indoor Air Quality with Air Conditioning

Although home ac systems mainly function to keep cool the indoor temperature of our home, they also significantly affect our indoor air quality. The home being a space where most of us spend our time requires good air quality for comfort and good health. That is why people who are vulnerable (like allergy and asthma sufferers) must carefully assess the impact of AC systems on their health. This article discusses the effect of air conditioning units on the quality of indoor air and what home owners can do to make sure indoor air is healthy.

Filtering Out Pollutants

The other major way to route away bad indoor air is through filtration. Existing air conditioning systems commonly use filters to trap dust, pollen, pet dander and other particulates. However, using good air filters, and making sure to change or clean them regularly, is very important for this process.

Managing Humidity Levels

Air conditioning units help to control indoor humidity levels too. If air humidity levels are very high, mould and mildew could grow, which is bad for the structure of your home and your health. By keeping humidity at a moderate level, air conditioners can prevent these problems and make your home more comfortable.

Circulating and Ventilating Air

Proper ventilation of indoor air is one of an air conditioner's main functions, since the cooled air circulating in your home is constantly being ventilated and refreshed, avoiding the formation of stagnant air pockets and contributors, whose air is not as clean. Still, to maximize air quality, air conditioning systems should be supplemented by regular ventilation when possible, for example by opening the windows when the weather allows.

Potential for Contaminants

While air conditioning has the power to purify the air, poorly maintained systems can actually do just the opposite. If not properly cleaned, air conditioners can become a source of bacteria, mould and fungus, which are then circulated throughout your home.

Reducing Indoor Air Pollutants

It is also true air conditiners help to reduce indoor air pollutants. For example, in many cities in the World, the outdoor air is badly polluted so people inside their offices,have much more better indoor air than their outside environment. By filtering and circulating the air inside of a building, air conditioning actually helps to provide a cleaner environment for the home, working or car occupants and prevents them from the external pollutants.

Key Learnings and Actionable Insights

• Regularly clean or replace air conditioner filters to maintain effective pollutant trapping.
• Use air conditioning to manage indoor humidity and prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Ensure proper ventilation in conjunction with air conditioning to enhance indoor air quality.
• Regular maintenance checks will prevent your air-conditioning system from becoming the source of pollutants.
• For more purified indoor air, you might want to supplement your HVAC system with an air purifier or an extra filtration system if you live in an area with high ambient air pollution.