How Your HVAC System Keeps You Healthy

It’s a hot, sunny, humid day here in Texas and you just returned home from a long day of running errands. You feel sticky and sweaty, and your allergies are flaring.

No worries. A cold glass of water and a great working air conditioner will have you feeling fresh in no time.

Your comfort and health inside your Austin home or business rely on quality heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems that can do the job right. At AiRCO Heating & Air Conditioning, our team takes great pride in installing, repairing, and maintaining heating and cooling equipment throughout the Central Texas area. We provide sustainable solutions for all your HVAC needs.

How HVAC Systems Improve Indoor Air Quality

Did you know the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that indoor levels of pollutants can be two to five times higher than levels found outdoors? Most of us spend the vast majority of our day indoors, which means we depend on a reliable HVAC system to maintain our indoor air quality (IAQ).

Your air conditioner can lower the amount of pollen, mold, mildew, and other airborne allergens inside your Austin home that could trigger asthma or allergy attacks. It can reduce noxious fumes and odors while maintaining a constant temperature. Ask about our in-duct air purifier systems designed to tackle indoor air pollutants and eliminate sick building syndrome (SBS) risks.

Your HVAC System and Humidity

Muggy outdoors, comfortable indoors—that’s how a quality HVAC system can help you. Air conditioners regulate the humidity inside your Austin home by removing excess moisture from the air.

Ideally, your home’s relative humidity level should be kept between 45 and 50 percent. Humidity that is too high creates a breeding ground for bacteria, mildew, and mold. Too low of humidity cracks your skin and dries up your nasal passages, causing sore throats and stuffy noses. Adding a whole-house humidifier can control your home’s humidity within 1 percent of the recommended levels.

Beat the Heat and the Cold

When temperatures soar, there is a risk of heatstroke. At extremely cold temperatures, the risk is hypothermia. Your air conditioner and furnace play a vital role in maintaining a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year. Sealing those drafts around your windows and doors goes a long way to help get the best performance from your HVAC system all year long. 

HVAC Health Tips

Keeping your HVAC system running at peak efficiency helps you in so many ways. It’s good for your health, your pocketbook, and the environment. That said, it just makes sense to follow these health tips for your heating and cooling system:

• Change your air filters at least every 90 days—more so if you have pets in the house or someone who smokes. This small step can extend the service life of your HVAC equipment and help avoid costly repairs.

• Have our expert team inspect your air ducts for any leaks and tears. Sealing your ductwork can save you a lot of money over the long run. It also prevents pollutants and insects (and rodents!) from infiltrating your system.

• Clear any vegetation or debris cluttering the area around your outdoor air conditioning unit. Ideally, you want a two-foot clearance around this area.

Call Your HVAC Experts

Our team at AiRCO Heating & Air Conditioning has the experience and expertise to maintain your HVAC equipment throughout the year—and to make any repairs if necessary. We take great pride in serving our Austin, TX, homes and businesses. Call 512.537.1234 or request service online today to learn more about maintaining a healthy indoor environment.