If you’ve ever experienced any condition that makes breathing more difficult than it should be, then you know how frightening shortness of breath can be. Conditions that cause respiratory difficulties can stem from a number of different causal factors. For most of us, shortness of breath is a passing event that can be easily remedied. However, for those suffering from asthma, shortness of breath is a part of life and something that requires constant attention.
More often than not, the normal function of an air conditioner will not trigger an asthma attack. Ordinarily, the promotion of a cool and comfortable environment will help to prevent asthma attacks. Still, there are a few exceptions to this rule.
Dust and Mold
While dust and mold will naturally accumulate in any home- these pollutants will accumulate inside the ducts and central unit of any HVAC system more than in any other area. This is due to the simple fact that the interior spaces of an AC system cannot be cleaned on a regular basis. If you or anyone in your home is an asthma sufferer, the best thing you can do is to have your HVAC system cleaned annually and to install a high-quality HEPA filter.
Cold Air
In especially acute cases of asthma, the sudden shock of a blast of cold air can trigger an episode. This is especially true of elderly asthma sufferers and those who are in ill health for one reason or another. In these cases, it is advised that you keep the bed of the asthma sufferers away from vents and registers. It is also best to keep the thermostat set to a level which will not be shocking to the asthmatic in your home.
Beware of the Heating Function
Finally, while your AC does need to be cleaned and optimized for the comfort of anyone with a respiratory condition, you should keep in mind that your HVAC heating function may be more likely to cultivate mold which can be especially dangerous for persons with asthma.
For best results, you should consult your doctor to determine what is and what is not dangerous for any asthmatic living in your home. Then you should consult your local HVAC professional to set your AC system up correctly and make it run in an optimal fashion.
Your Heating and Cooling Experts in Alpharetta
To learn more on how to optimize your HVAC system for maximum comfort and value, get in touch with the experts at 4 Seasons Heating & Air today. Our professional HVAC staff here in the main office in Alpharetta, GA are waiting to answer all of your important questions!
