Can AC cause allergies?

Sep 19

If you live in the arid, desert landscape of Arizona and AC is a must; it is hard to picture coping with the dry climate without the help of cool air, especially indoors.
What happens if you start to feel sick or sneeze continuously as soon as you turn on the air conditioning but you are fine when it is off? If you ever wondered whether an AC causes allergies, the answer lies in the airborne allergens spread by air conditioning units. Phoenix allergies are present all year round, and while your air conditioning is not the sole reason for your sneezing, it does help circulate the contaminated air, being the one to blame if you suffer from seasonal allergies.

Below we put together all the information you need regarding AC allergies, what causes them and how you can prevent them.

WHAT IS AN ‘‘AC ALLERGY’’?

The AC unit controls the air circulation in your home, introduced through a system of ductworks. The allergens present in the ducts are moved within the room, contaminating the air and triggering your symptoms.

AC allergy contaminants

A recent study shows that one in 12 new cases of asthma is caused by airborne pollutants. Your air conditioning may be delivering them throughout your home.

Pollen

Without a doubt, pollen is one of the most common reasons for an allergy, and it can get indoors through open windows and doors. In Arizona, it is present all year round, due to the plants blooming in different months of the year. It can become worrying when it gets mixed with dust, and pet dander and it’s circulated by your AC.

Bacteria and viruses

Chickenpox, influenza and measles are some of the most dangerous airborne bacteria and viruses.

Mold and mildew

Mold and mildew can grow inside the HVAC ducts, in damp conditions. Mold particles mix with the air system once the air conditioning is turned on. Also, make sure the humidity levels are maintained as these particles can grow inside your home and are responsible for triggering your allergic reactions.

Dust mites

Dust mites are the main factors for asthma, and they reproduce in warm and damp conditions. Another important thing about dust mites is that they feed on particles of human skin and can breed inside your AC system.

VOCs (volatile organic compounds)

VOCs are mainly produced by household cleaning suppliers, as they are the result of off-gassing chemicals.

AC allergy symptoms

The most common reactions to air contaminants are dizziness, fever, sneezing, watery eyes, digestive issues or shortness of breath. If not treated in time, these symptoms can have negative consequences on your health, like breathing problems caused by unclean ducts or HVAC filters that have not been changed often enough. Dry skin is another unpleasant consequence of dry air and air pollutants found in the HVAC system. A board certified allergy specialist can help you with treatments and other advice regarding your symptoms.

How do you prevent allergic reactions to AC?

AC filters. One of the things that can keep you safe from allergens is air conditioner filters, that act like a shield against pollutants. Make sure you change them regularly and also keep them clean to prevent allergic reactions.

Get an air purifier and maintain humidity levels. It is recommended to keep humidity levels below 50 to minimize mold growth and dust mites. A dehumidifier can be a smart investment in this sense that can help you maintain optimal humidity levels.
Keep doors and windows closed. Once your filters are cleaned or changed, closing the windows can be an effective way to help purify the air without letting contaminants in from the outside.
Annual maintenance check. Signing up for an annual maintenance plan is your best bet to have your HVAC system professionally cleaned and maintained regularly, so do not hold back when it comes to investing in this.

CONCLUSION

Although not the main factor, air conditioners can trigger pre-existing seasonal allergies, especially in warmer climates and if not properly maintained and cleaned. The symptoms caused by air pollutants transported by your AC can be prevented by following some helpful tips, and in case you need further help, our allergy associates are here to help. Make sure you clean your filters regularly, maintain humidity levels and do not hesitate to sign up for a maintenance plan.
Last but not least, do not forget to see a specialist for more help regarding your allergic reactions.

Call us today for more information on how to prevent and alleviate your allergies!