World Senior Citizen Day will be celebrated on August 21st to help bring awareness to the concerns our elderly citizens face. While this day has special meaning for all of us, we wanted to remind people that our HVAC systems are not like a fine wine; they do not age well!
In this article we are going to discuss why an aging HVAC system is a cause for concern, and why you should consider replacing your system this World Senior Citizen Day. There are many factors that contribute to needing a new AC system, but your health is the overshadowing concern!
The Importance of Your Air Filters
It is important to change the air filters in your HVAC system regularly. A particle air filter is made up of fibrous material that catches solid particles in the air. Without an air filter, mold, dust, and pollen is left to pollute your air unchecked.
When your air filters have become clogged and dirty, it results in the same effect as having no air filter; in fact, it can be worse. This is why replacing your air filters periodically is key to having good indoor air quality.
When is the right time to replace your air filters? It is generally recommended that you change your air filter every 90 days in an average suburban household. This can vary, however, depending on your living situation. For example; if you have respiratory difficulty, have more than one pet, or live in an urban area with several people, you may want to change the air filters more often.
The Effects On Your Health
Poor indoor air quality can have many devastating effects on your health. Not replacing your air filters can only be one portion of the problem, as air filters help with may other aspects of air pollution besides the solid particles they catch. Household cleaners, personal care products, and even chemicals in your furniture can have an effect on your health.
Cleaning your air filters can make a big difference in reducing the number of pollutants that are in your indoor air. Common health problems associated with clogged and dirty air filter are;
- Allergies
- Aggravated Asthma
- Aggravated Emphysema
- Dizziness
- Shortness of Breath
- Bronchial Infections
- Headache
- Nausea
- Coughing
- Sore Throat
Get To Know Your HVAC Services
Like every machine with working parts, your HVAC system will eventually breakdown and need repairs. How often you need repairs directly correlates with how well your system is maintenance.
Annual maintenance is recommended for your HVAC system to make sure everything is working properly. At some point, however, repairs and maintenance are not going to be enough, and you are going to need a replacement. Generally speaking, your HVAC system should last you 10 to 15 years.
With proper repairs and regular maintenance, it should be closer to the 15-year mark. That being said, if you are experiencing constant and costly repairs with an older system, you may want to consider replacing your unit. Also, factors such as increased energy costs, inconsistent heating, strange smells and sounds, and poor air quality are also important to determine when a new installation is warranted.
Work With Professionals
On World Senior Citizen Day this year, remember to give some thought to your HVAC system. Just as respect and help your elderly community on this day, we should also give some thought to our aging systems that can be affecting our health.
TR Miller Heating & Cooling is a leader in HVAC technology. We are happy to assist you with all of your repairs, maintenance, and installations. Give us a call today, so we can answer any of your questions at (815) 265-6129.
