How can an air conditioning system be bad, especially when you consider all the comfort and pleasure it gives you all cooling season long. And, here in the DFW area, that’s a lengthy season.
Well, guess what? Your central air system can make you plenty sick. The very best way to fight back is with annual preventive maintenance. But there’s plenty you can do on your own to keep it running effectively, efficiently, and without making your life miserable.
Here are the most common warning signs of AC related illness.
1. Breathing or Respiratory Problems
A dirty AC unit and filter are breeding grounds for a multitude of respiratory problems, like difficulty breathing, pneumonia – even Legionnaires’ disease. The problem begins when bacteria and fungi are allowed to flourish, thus producing black mold and releasing it into the air. For your part, clean or replace your filter every 6 to 8 weeks or as needed.
2. Watching for Mold
Mold can do even more damage, especially when built-up inside older AC systems. Symptoms such as throat irritation, wheezing, and congestion are often traced to a mold infestation. Before contacting Optimum Air for assistance, check inside the filter and air vents for black spots. If you find any, mix 1 qt. water and 1/2 cup bleach. Be sure to scrub down the spots of mold with a sponge and use protective gloves. If the filter has moldy spots on it, replace it.
3. Fatigue and Headaches
Most people are normally tired after a day of work. But when an AC system has a pile of dirt or mold inside it, you can feel much more tired than usual. Along with some serious drowsiness, you’re likely to suddenly notice some level of headache. Until Optimum Air arrives on the scene to make matters right again, turn off the system, use fans for temporary relief and step outside to breathe cleaner air, even if the temperatures are “up there.”
4. Dry or Flaky Skin
Cold, dry air – the kind your AC system generates – has been known to sap moisture from your skin until it becomes dry and flaky. It also can happen to your hair and scalp. If that’s happening to you, you’re probably spending too much time indoors. Still, you can relieve the itching with an organic, chemical-free skin moisturizer. Also, drink plenty of water.
And now, we’re right back where we started – making sure you have your AC system professionally cleaned and inspected once a year. Throughout DFW, no one is better suited to the task than Optimum, and we have a ton of very satisfied customers to prove it. Call us today for a cleaner, safer AC system.