Is Your Car AC Aggravating Your Allergies?
If you suffer from allergies, you probably take steps to control any potential triggers around your home. However, have you ever considered the impact the AC unit in your car might be having on your medical condition? Below is a guide to the signs that your vehicle's AC unit is aggravating your allergies, the causes of the problem and the steps you need to take to combat it.
What are the warning signs?
Below are some of the warning signs that the AC unit in your car is infested with mould which causing you to have an allergic reaction.
- A musty or damp smell: If you notice that your vehicle smells musty or damp, this could be a sign that your AC unit has mould growing in it.
- You have an allergic reaction when driving: If may notice that you begin to sneeze, your eyes start to water, or you struggle to breathe while in your car but these symptoms pass when you exit the vehicle.
- You notice visible signs of mould: If you spot signs of organic growth around the vents in your car, this is an indication that the AC system has mould growing in it.
Why does mould develop within the AC unit and vents?
If your AC unit begins to malfunction, water may start to pool within the unit and vents. This water can form as a result of condensation or a crack in a pipe, which allows water to enter the AC system during rain showers. Microbes can collect in this standing water, and the dark and warmth within the AC unit and vents provide the ideal conditions for mould to develop and grow.
When you start your car and turn on the AC unit, the fans blow mould spores through the vents and into the interior of the car. Once the spores enter the atmosphere of your vehicle, they can trigger an allergic reaction.
How can the mould be removed?
Mould can be tackled using bleach. Simply mix a small amount of bleach with water in a spray bottle. Turn on the car AC unit and make sure that the recirculate button is switched off. Spray the bleach mixture into the vents and let the vehicle's AC unit circulate the bleach through the system, killing the mould.
However, removing the mould will not solve the underlying problems such as pooling water or a cracked vent unit. You should have your car serviced by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to inspect your vehicle's AC unit before carrying out any necessary repairs.
Driving while suffering from the effects of an allergic reaction can be extremely dangerous. If you think your car's AC unit may be triggering an allergic reaction, you should contact a car mechanic today.
