One of the most important systems in a home is the heating, ventilation, and cooling system, also known as an HVAC system for short. However, like anything, such a system can age and lose its effectiveness over time. When this happens, the best option is usually to upgrade to a newer system with expanded capability and efficiency, as older models can considerably degrade air quality.
Lack of Filtration
One of the ways that an old HVAC system could negatively affect the air quality in your home is through a lack of proper air filtration. While you may assume that swapping out air filters on time will prevent this outcome, eventually it may not make as big of a difference as you would have hoped when all the other components become worn out. Newer systems also tend to have better technology that can filter out more of the dust, debris, and other air pollutants that can hamper air quality.
Inability to Manage Humidity
Something else an HVAC system may lose over time is the ability to effectively manage the humidity in your home. When your home is more humid than it should be, this can lead to poor air quality due to the growth of air contaminants that can grow and breed in damper conditions. Things like mildew and mold, both very negative for human health, can fester in such an environment. Alternatively, if the air lacks too much humidity, that dry air could also cause health complications for certain people prone to breathing issues.
Ventilation Issues
Third, your older HVAC system could have ventilation issues that contribute to poor indoor air quality. When the air is not properly ventilated, it can become stale. This can mean that pollutants that would have otherwise been removed by proper ventilation can become stuck in the air. This can even include things that are extra harmful to human beings, such as gases and toxic fumes from different appliances or other things that may leak into the home’s air supply. Overall, exposure to stale air can certainly hamper a person’s well-being.
Evidence of Poor Air Quality
If you have an old HVAC system and suspect your home may have poor air quality as a result, there are certain telltale signs you can look out for:
- Allergic reactions
- Dusty surfaces
- Musty odors
- Respiratory issues
- Room-to-room temperature fluctuations
Overall, an outdated system can certainly take a hit to the air quality in your home and the health of your family, hence the reason it is vital to remedy this problem quickly. If you live in or near Abilene, TX, and need HVAC replacement, hire our company, Olympus Electric & Air, for the job.