Is the AC Making My Allergies Worse

Have you been sneezing more than usual lately? Do your eyes feel itchy and watery? Are you constantly rubbing your nose? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then it’s possible that the air conditioning (AC) in your home is making your allergies worse. While the AC is designed to keep us cool and comfortable, it can also circulate pollen, dust, and other allergens that can trigger our allergies. Here are five ways the AC can make your allergies worse and how to prevent it:

1. Not Changing the Filter Regularly

One of the main reasons why the AC can make your allergies worse is because of the buildup of dust, pollen, and other allergens in the filter. Over time, these particles will build up and will eventually be circulated back into the air, exacerbating your allergies. To prevent this from happening, be sure to change your AC filter every 1-3 months. If you have pets or someone in your household suffers from asthma or allergies, it’s best to change the filter every month.

2. Not Keeping the AC Unit Clean

Another reason why your AC may be making your allergies worse is because it’s not clean. Just like the filter, over time dust and other allergens can build up on the AC unit itself. When the AC is turned on, these particles will be circulated into the air, causing your allergies to flare up. To prevent this from happening, be sure to clean your AC unit regularly. You can do this by wiping down the unit with a damp cloth or using a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove any debris.

3. Not Ventilating Your Home Properly

If you don’t have proper ventilation in your home, the air inside can become stagnant and filled with allergens. This is especially true if you live in an area with high pollen counts or dust levels. To prevent this from happening, be sure to ventilate your home regularly. You can do this by opening windows and doors to let fresh air in or by using a fan to circulate the air.

4. Not Keeping Your AC Unit Maintained

Just like any other appliance in your home, your AC unit needs to be properly maintained in order to function properly. If you don’t keep up with regular maintenance, such as changing the filter and cleaning the unit, it will work less efficiently and could cause your allergies to flare up. To prevent this from happening, be sure to have your air conditioner unit serviced by an AC contractor every year. They will be able to clean the unit and make any necessary repairs to keep it running properly.

5. Not Using an Air Purifier

If you’re looking for an extra line of defense against allergies, then consider using an air purifier in your home. Air purifiers work by circulating the air and removing allergens, such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. To get the most out of an air purifier, be sure to choose one that is designed for the specific type of allergens you’re trying to remove. For example if you’re allergic to pollen, then choose an air purifier that is specifically designed to remove pollen from the air.

So, if you’re noticing that your allergies have been worse since the warm weather hit, it’s possible that the AC is to blame. By following these tips, however, you can help keep your allergies under control and enjoy a cool and comfortable summer.