Residents of Colorado Springs know the danger fire season can bring to the region. Colorado is a beautiful place, but it is also susceptible to fires, especially during extremely dry or warm years. Fire season typically starts in June and runs through October, although the exact timing depends on the weather conditions. There are many things that Colorado Springs residents should do to prepare for fire season, but an important step is often overlooked—getting your air conditioner serviced.
Of all the fire preparation steps to take, such as making sure you have an emergency plan, food, and water in place, servicing an air conditioner may fall to the bottom of the list. However, an air conditioner in good condition can help you family stay safe as the air fills with smoke and ash. In most units, the air conditioning and air purification systems are intertwined, meaning that if your air conditioner is in need of repair, your air purification system is, as well.
Smoke and ash from fires miles away can have a huge effect on air quality. During the late summer months, it isn’t uncommon for Colorado Springs to have poor air quality warnings when residents are encouraged to stay inside to avoid breathing the contaminated air. In smoky conditions, the most dangerous particles are the smallest ones, which are also the most difficult to purify. Breathing in these chemicals is especially harmful to children, the elderly, and people with heart and lung disease. An air purification system can be very effective in cleaning the air before it comes into your home. While these systems don’t remove 100 percent of the contaminants, they can dramatically improve the air quality. However, if the system is damaged, clogged, or backed up because of a variety of issues, it can cause the system to fail to work properly or shut down altogether, harming the members of your home. A standard air conditioning service appointment can also point to any potential air purification issues. When the service takes place before fire season, it gives you plenty of time to have your air conditioner and air purifier cleaned, repaired, or replaced before the smoke rolls in.
Don’t get stuck without clean air—get your air conditioner serviced today to avoid a dangerous situation during fire season.