If you’re like many homeowners, you depend on central air conditioning to stay cool indoors during Michigan’s hot, humid summers. But if you’ve noticed a persistent sore throat that only seems to appear when your AC is running, your comfort system could be to blame. While air conditioning itself isn’t harmful, an improperly installed or poorly maintained unit can have a surprising impact on your respiratory health.
In this blog post, the comfort specialists at Robin Aire Service Company discuss how your AC might be the cause of that scratchy throat — and what you can do about it.
How Does Central Air Affect Your Respiratory System?
Your air conditioner does more than cool the air — it also filters and circulates it throughout your home. However, if your AC system is not installed correctly or hasn’t been maintained properly, it can become a breeding ground for mold and allergens. As your system cycles air, it may also be spreading those irritants from room to room, aggravating your respiratory system and contributing to symptoms like sore throats, coughing, and congestion.
In addition, AC systems naturally remove moisture from the air as part of the cooling process. If your system is over-performing or not balanced correctly, it can strip too much humidity, leaving the air uncomfortably dry and irritating your throat.
Is There Mold in Your AC?
Mold loves moisture, and your AC system can provide the perfect damp environment for it to thrive, especially in the evaporator coils and drip pans. Once mold begins to grow, spores can enter your ductwork and spread throughout your home every time your AC runs.
Breathing in mold spores can cause respiratory issues, including sore throats, sinus infections, and even more severe reactions in those with allergies or asthma. To prevent mold buildup, it’s essential to have your AC system inspected and cleaned regularly and have a technician check for mold during routine maintenance.
Sore Throats & Dry Air
Low humidity is another common reason your AC might be giving you a sore throat. Air conditioners dehumidify the air as they cool it, and in some cases, especially in already dry climates, this can lead to excessively dry indoor air.
Dry air can cause your throat to become scratchy or irritated, particularly overnight. You might also notice dry skin, itchy eyes, or nosebleeds. To counter this, consider using a whole-home humidifier or portable units in rooms where you spend the most time. Also, make sure your AC system isn’t oversized for your space, as larger units tend to cycle quickly and remove too much moisture without running long enough to properly balance humidity.
Summer Allergies & Sore Throats
During the summer months, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens are in full swing. If your AC filters are dirty or your system isn’t properly sealed, it can pull these allergens indoors and circulate them throughout your home.
The good news is that a well-maintained AC system can actually help reduce allergy symptoms. High-quality air filters, regular duct cleaning, and indoor air quality enhancements like UV lights or air purifiers can drastically improve the air you breathe.
How Dust Affects Your AC
Dust buildup in your AC system not only affects efficiency but it also affects the air quality in your home. Dirty air filters and dust-filled ducts can recirculate stale, contaminated air, triggering sore throats and other respiratory issues.
To keep your system clean and your air fresh, be sure to replace your air filters every one to three months, depending on usage and filter type. Professional duct cleaning every few years (or sooner if you have pets, smoke indoors, or notice excessive dust) can also make a big difference in how your AC performs and how you feel.
Schedule AC Maintenance with Robin Aire
If your AC is giving you a sore throat, it’s time to take action. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your system clean, efficient, and healthy for your home. At Robin Aire, our team of HVAC professionals will inspect, clean, and optimize your AC to ensure it’s delivering clean, comfortable air all season long.
Contact Robin Aire today to schedule your AC maintenance and start breathing easier!
