Pollen and Your AC Unit
# Pollen and Your AC Unit
As the seasons shift and flowers bloom, pollen becomes a regular part of outdoor life. But while it’s floating freely in the air, itโs also sneaking into places it shouldnโtโlike your HVAC system. If you have allergies, youโre probably all too familiar with the sneezing and itchy eyes that come with pollen season. But pollen doesnโt just affect your health.
In this article, we will explain how pollen affects your outdoor AC unit. We will also discuss why regular AC maintenance is important. Finally, we will share simple steps to protect your homeโs comfort.
What Is Pollen and Why Should Homeowners Care?
Tiny grains released by trees, grasses, and weeds make up pollen. It travels through the air and settles on everything including your HVAC equipment. Over time, pollen builds up on the coils, filters, and other parts of your AC system. Without routine maintenance, that buildup can lead to a range of issues.
To learn more about pollen allergies and symptoms, check out the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s guide.
How Pollen Affects Your Outdoor AC Unit
1. Clogged Filters
Your air filters are the first line of defense against pollen and other debris. But during high pollen seasons, those filters can fill up quickly. When that happens, it restricts airflow and makes your AC system work harder.
Inspect filters every 30 days during spring and summer. Replacements are available in our filter store. Visit our filter shop for a variety of options that fit your system.
2. Reduced Airflow
If pollen clogs your filters or outdoor unit, it can reduce the flow of air through your system. This can result in longer cooling times and more frequent AC operation.
Why it matters: Reduced airflow makes your home less comfortable and increases the chances of your system overheating.
3. Increased Energy Use
When your AC has to work harder because of blocked filters or dirty coils, it uses more electricity. Over time, this leads to higher energy bills and adds stress to your equipment.
This is where regular AC system maintenance comes in. A well-maintained unit runs more efficiently, saving you money and avoiding surprises.
4. Risk of Damage to AC Components
Pollen and other debris can get inside your outdoor unit and coat the coils or fan blades. This build-up causes parts to overheat or malfunction. In severe cases, it can even lead to frozen coils or damage to your compressor.
Protect your investment: Scheduling regular AC preventative maintenance helps catch these problems early and prevent costly repairs.
5. Poor Indoor Air Quality
If pollen makes it past your filters, it can circulate through your ducts and into your home. This can cause allergy symptoms for you and your family.
What does AC maintenance include to fix this? A technician will check and clean indoor coils, inspect your ductwork, and recommend any filter upgrades to keep your air clean.
Signs That Pollen Is Impacting Your System
- Your home doesnโt feel as cool as it used to
- AC runs longer than normal
- You notice a spike in your energy bills
- Increased allergy symptoms indoors
- Visible pollen or dirt buildup on your outdoor unit
If youโre noticing any of these signs, itโs time to schedule a home AC maintenance visit.
How to Prevent Pollen Damage
While you cannot eliminate airborne pollen, you can minimize its impact on your AC system. Here are simple ways to protect your system:
Replace Your Filters Frequently
During pollen season, replace your filters more often. This is especially important if you live in high-pollen areas or have pets. Visit our filter store for easy ordering.
Schedule Seasonal AC Maintenance
Our technicians perform full system checks, clean critical components, and ensure your unit is ready for heavy use.
To know the cost, contact us to learn about our AC maintenance specials.
Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit
Maintain a clear perimeter around the unit by routinely trimming nearby vegetation. Keep a two-foot radius around the unit clear to help prevent pollen and leaves from building up.
Monitor Performance
If you notice inconsistent temperatures or strange noises, it might be because of clogged parts or restricted airflow.
Consider Mini Split AC Maintenance
If your home uses a ductless system, be sure it receives routine maintenance as well. Ductless AC maintenance includes cleaning indoor air handlers and checking outdoor units for debris.
If you have a mini split system, schedule your maintenance in early spring. This will help prevent problems during the hot summer.
What Does Routine Maintenance Include?
A 40-point AC inspection is a detailed service. It checks and adjusts many parts of your air conditioning system.
Here’s what a routine maintenance includes. We won’t cover the full 40-point AC inspection; however, here are some of the points we include:
- Filter inspection and replacement
- Coil cleaning
- Thermostat testing
- Refrigerant level check
- Electrical connection check
- Condensate drain line clearing
- Inspection of fan and motor operation
This full-service tune-up helps your system run at peak performance while protecting your home from unnecessary costs.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your AC Running Smoothly This Season
Pollen is not just an allergy trigger. It can clog your filters, strain your AC system, and affect your homeโs comfort and air quality. Fortunately, with regular AC unit maintenance and a few simple steps, you can keep your system in top shape.
If you need help, Appolo Heating is here to assist you. Additionally, you can learn about ductless AC maintenance.
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Donโt wait until itโs too late. Schedule your AC maintenance today and breathe easier all season long.