The worst of the bushfire season is hopefully behind us but it’s likely to have left something behind in your air conditioner.
Bushfire smoke is made up of fine particles and gases that can be harmful to human and animal health. These particles can affect the eyes, nose, throat and lungs, aggravating existing respiratory and other medical conditions.
How does this affect my air conditioner?
Most home air conditioners are not designed to filter out such small particles which can then enter the home. This is why health authorities have been recommending that homeowners turn off the “fresh air” function on their air conditioner to stop contaminated air from being drawn in from outside.
However, in these unprecedented conditions, where air quality has been poor and hazardous for days on end, it is likely bushfire smoke particles have still managed to enter your home, settling on floors and other surfaces, as well as your air conditioning filter.
What can I do about it?
Upgrading your filter to a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) or other higher filtration option can help trap the particles you can’t see and prevent fine particles from recycling through your air conditioner. Clements can assist with a range of filtration upgrades to your existing air conditioner at home or the office.
You can also help your filtration system by wiping and mopping hard surfaces to clean away soot, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to clean fabrics and carpets, and sealing draughts around doors and windows.
All the bushfires near me are out, isn’t it too late now?
Thankfully, recent wet weather and the amazing efforts of our firefighters mean the fire situation is largely under control. However, your filtration system is probably still holding on to the particles and dust generated from the fire events of December and January.
To ensure your filtration system is operating efficiently, it’s important to have it regularly checked and cleaned. The fire season has expedited this need. A clogged filter means your air conditioner has to work harder to push the air through, expending more energy and ultimately costing you money.
If you live or work in an area that has been affected by bushfire smoke, call the friendly team at Clements to schedule your filtration check and clean on 4932 3833.