Do Air Conditioners Take in Air from Outside? | Air & Energy of NWFL

Do air conditioners take in air from outside to cool your home? Not typically. Standard air conditioning units are designed to cool the air within your home by recirculating it, not by drawing fresh air from outside.

Read on to discover the inner workings of AC systems and how they maintain your comfort without relying on outdoor air.

• Most air conditioners, including heat pumps and central systems, recirculate and filter indoor air rather than bringing in outside air, helping to improve indoor air quality by removing particles and controlling humidity levels.
• Air conditioners come in various types—window, portable, central, ductless mini-splits, etc.—each having a different impact on indoor air quality, with features such as UV sterilizers, HEPA filters, ionizers, and activated carbon filters to enhance air purification.
• Regular maintenance of air conditioners is crucial for both efficient cooling and improving indoor air quality; replacing air filters every three months is recommended, and good ventilation can further decrease indoor air pollution and enhance the performance of air conditioning systems.

There is a common belief that air conditioners bring fresh air from outside, but in reality, they recirculate the air inside the building. However, the truth is slightly different.

Primarily, air conditioners operate by:

• Cooling and filtering the recirculated indoor air instead of importing fresh air from the outside.
• Drawing in warm air from the room.
  
• Passing the air through an air filter to remove particles such as dirt, dust, and bacteria.
  
• Cooling the air down before blowing it back into the room.
  

This process not only cools your room but also helps improve indoor air quality by removing potential pollutants from the ambient room air.

Air conditioners also influence indoor air quality by controlling humidity levels. By removing excess moisture, they prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can degrade air quality.

Specific air conditioning units feature:

• UV sterilizers
  
• HEPA filters
  
• Ionizers
  
• Activated carbon filtration systems

These features enhance air purification.

Air conditioners function by utilizing the refrigeration cycle, a process that involves:

1. Extracting heat from indoor air, thereby improving indoor air quality.
   
2. The air conditioner pump, also known as the compressor, has a significant role in the cooling process. It pressurizes the refrigerant, raising its temperature.
   
3. This hot, pressurized refrigerant then travels to the condenser coil, losing its heat to the outside environment.
   
4. It cools down and turns into a high-pressure liquid.
   

This liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve, turning it into a low-pressure, cold liquid that enters the evaporator coil. As indoor air is blown over the evaporator coil, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and cools it down.

The cooled air is then distributed throughout the room or building by the air conditioner using a system of ducts. This cycle persists until the set temperature is reached, affirming that the air conditioner cools the indoor air instead of drawing in outdoor air.

One common misconception is that air conditioners bring in fresh air from outside. However, most air conditioning systems focus on recirculating and cooling indoor air.

By recirculating indoor air, air conditioning systems can help preserve indoor air quality and potentially decrease indoor air pollution. Heat pump air conditioners are a perfect example of systems that recirculate indoor air, providing consistent comfort regardless of outside weather.

Recirculating indoor air in air conditioning systems carries potential risks despite the benefits. Since the same air is continuously circulated, any pathogens present can potentially be transmitted, elevating the risk of infections. Hence, it's necessary to maintain clean indoor air through regular cleaning or air purifiers.

Air conditioners come in various types, including:

• Window units
  
• Central systems
  
• Hybrid
  
• Portable
  
• Ductless
  
• Geothermal cooling systems
  

But, beyond the cooling efficiency and price, it's essential to consider their impact on indoor air quality. Some types of air conditioners may be more suitable than others for maintaining clean and fresh indoor air in your home.

For example, window unit air conditioners can introduce pollutants by facilitating the entry of outside air, similar to outdoor air. They may also create stagnant air pockets inside the room, potentially compromising air quality.

On the other hand, central air conditioning systems typically enhance indoor air quality by:

• capturing dust
  
• pollen
  
• pet dander
  
• other airborne particles
  

While not common, geothermal cooling systems use underground temperatures to regulate indoor climate. They don't directly impact indoor air quality as they don't introduce outdoor air.

Portable and window air conditioners operate by recirculating indoor air to lower temperatures. While window units are fixed, portable units can be easily moved to different locations as required, offering flexibility.

They work by extracting hot air from the room, cooling it using internal components, and reintroducing the cooled air into the space.

Despite their convenience, window and portable units may allow outdoor air infiltration. Sealing gaps and closing outdoor air dampers is advisable to mitigate this. This can be achieved by using a window insulation kit and applying caulk around the edges, creating a secure seal to fill gaps.

Central air conditioning systems offer efficient cooling throughout multiple rooms and floors. They integrate the essential components into a unified unit, often placed near the foundation or on the roof.

These systems can:

• Enhance indoor air quality by controlling humidity levels
  
• Decrease air pollution through filtration
  
• Potentially incorporate additional features such as air purifiers and humidifiers.
  

Contrary to popular belief, central air conditioning systems generally do not draw in outdoor air as they primarily circulate indoor air.

The internal cooling unit is isolated from the external unit, and any fresh air entering the system does so indirectly through air vents and unintended openings.

Ductless mini-split systems are becoming increasingly popular due to their efficient cooling and improved indoor air quality without requiring ductwork.

These systems comprise:

• An outdoor unit containing the compressor, condensing coils, and a fan
  
• Indoor unit(s) responsible for dispersing conditioned air into the space
  
• A conduit connecting the two
  

These units are often employed in residences that lack air ducts and are installed on walls in various locations to enable air circulation within the household. Their ability to regulate temperature per room, integrated zoning capability, and increased operational adaptability make them popular.

Air conditioners do more than cool your home; they can also significantly improve indoor air quality.

Understanding how air conditioners work and properly maintaining your air conditioning system can help ensure optimal performance and improved indoor air quality. Proper air conditioner care, which includes regular cleaning and maintenance, is essential for achieving these benefits.

For example, air filters have a significant role in enhancing indoor air quality. They decrease fine particle concentrations and enhance filtration, helping maintain a healthy indoor environment. We recommend replacing air conditioner filters every three months to maintain optimal air quality.

Air filters in air conditioners serve the crucial role of removing dust, pollen, and other debris, thus maintaining clean and fresh indoor air.

They are capable of trapping pollutants such as:

• dust
  
• pollen
  
• animal dander
  
• mold
  
• sulfur dioxide
  
• nitrogen oxide
  
• bacteria
  

In some cases, air filters can also trap other pollutants and allergens. Replacing air conditioner filters regularly is essential to ensure optimal indoor air quality.

Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Replace air conditioner filters at least once every three months.
  
• Failure to replace filters may result in decreased indoor air quality.
  
• Dirty filters can contribute to respiratory diseases, heart disease, or even cancer over time.
  

By following these guidelines, you can maintain a healthy indoor environment.

Consistent maintenance and cleaning of your air conditioning system can help maintain its peak performance. This not only ensures efficient cooling but also improves indoor air quality.

We recommend servicing and cleaning your air conditioner at least once annually, with some suggesting a biannual servicing.

During routine maintenance, technicians typically identify issues like dirty air filters, failure of the AC to start, insufficient cooling, leakage, abnormal sounds, frequent cycling, freezing, unpleasant odors, reduced airflow, and increased energy costs.

Cleaning an air conditioner filter involves vacuuming it to eliminate dust and debris or washing it with gentle soap and water. After washing, ensure the filter is completely dry before reinstalling it.

Alongside the significant improvement in indoor air quality by air conditioners, considering your home's ventilation needs is also essential. Good ventilation can decrease indoor air pollution and enhance air quality in homes with air conditioning.

Ventilation systems like local ventilation and split systems can be employed with air conditioners to improve indoor air quality.

Good ventilation also increases air conditioner efficiency by reducing heating and cooling needs, enhancing airflow, and decreasing reliance on mechanical fans.

The need for additional ventilation, however, depends on individual requirements. In some cases, it can even help reduce cooling needs and utility bills or enhance air quality when installed by a reputable air conditioning company.

Substandard indoor air quality can result in various health problems. Common symptoms include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

If left unchecked, it can contribute to more severe conditions, including respiratory infections, lung cancer, chronic lung diseases like asthma, and even non-communicable diseases such as stroke and ischaemic heart disease.

Individuals with allergies and asthma are especially susceptible to the effects of poor indoor air quality. Exposure to indoor air pollutants can provoke exacerbations and exacerbate their symptoms.

Furthermore, poor indoor air quality can also increase the risk of various respiratory diseases, including infections and respiratory tract inflammation.

Vulnerable demographics such as the elderly and infants are subject to detrimental effects from insufficient indoor air quality, including heightened susceptibility to respiratory health complications and increased vulnerability to diseases.

Related Reading: Can Air Conditioning Make You Sick? Uncover the Facts and Fixes

Exposure to allergens and pollutants in indoor air can cause or exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues.

Common allergens and pollutants present in indoor air include:

• Bacteria
  
• Molds
  
• Mildew
  
• Viruses
  
• Animal dander
  
• Cat saliva
  
• House dust
  
• Mites
  
• Cockroaches
  
• Pollen
  
• Dust mites
  
• Pets
  
• Mold
  

Moreover, research has indicated that substandard indoor air quality is associated with a heightened likelihood of allergies and respiratory problems, such as:

• Dampness and mold
  
• Insufficient classroom air quality
  
• Prevalent indoor air pollutants
  
• Subpar housing conditions

These factors can contribute to asthma and rhinitis.

Maintaining clean indoor air is vital for overall health and well-being, particularly during substandard outdoor air quality periods.

Clean indoor air contributes to overall health and well-being by diminishing the likelihood of indoor health issues affecting the blood, spleen, liver, and reproductive system and averting noncommunicable diseases.

Furthermore, clean indoor air can enhance sleep quality by alleviating discomfort like sneezing, coughing, and breathing difficulties.

Exposure to air pollutants resulting from inadequate indoor air quality has the potential to precipitate conditions such as:

• depression
  
• anxiety
  
• psychoses
  
• neurocognitive disorders

The proper air conditioner selection involves considering factors like efficiency, indoor air quality, and the most suitable system type for your home.

The impact of energy efficiency on selecting an air conditioning system is reflected in the potential monthly savings on energy bills.

Opting for a system with higher energy efficiency can significantly reduce electricity and fuel consumption while maintaining comfortable air temperatures.

At the same time, the impact of different types of air conditioners on indoor air quality is a crucial factor to consider. Choosing the appropriate air conditioning system can assist in minimizing any adverse effects on indoor air quality.

Depending on the size of your house, different types of air conditioners may be more suitable. For instance, portable air conditioners and window units are typically advisable for small apartments, while central air conditioning systems are generally the most suitable option for a large house.

Several factors need consideration when selecting an air conditioner. Energy efficiency is a crucial consideration, as air conditioning units with higher SEER or HSPF ratings demonstrate more significant energy efficiency and have the potential to result in substantial monthly reductions in energy expenses.

The appropriate size and type of air conditioner for a home is determined by various factors, including:

• The room's size
  
• Heat load
  
• BTU rating
  
• Efficiency
  

Larger homes will require systems with higher tonnage or BTUs to cool the space effectively.

In addition, the local climate also influences the selection of an air conditioner as it determines the required cooling capacity and energy efficiency to manage temperature and humidity levels effectively.

Selecting a trustworthy air conditioning company is equally essential for choosing a suitable air conditioner.

The reliability of an air conditioning company is determined by:

• Technical excellence and certification
  
• A wide range of services
  
• Exceptional customer service
  
• Energy-efficient solutions
  
• Experience and qualifications
  
• Specialties
  
• Positive reviews and reputation
  
• Effective communication
  
• Availability
  
• A focus on energy efficiency
  

Within the air conditioning industry, some trustworthy companies include:

• Lennox
  
• Carrier
  
• York
  
• Trane
  
• American Standard
  
• LG
  
• Ruud
  
• Amana
  
• Coleman
  
• Rheem
  

Customer reviews, particularly Google reviews, hold significant sway as they are prominently displayed in search results and can greatly influence customer decisions.

Understanding how your air conditioner works and its impact on indoor air quality is crucial for your health and comfort. Whether it's a portable unit for a small apartment or a central air conditioning system for a large house, choosing the right air conditioner can make a difference.

Regular maintenance, clean filters, and adequate ventilation can ensure that your air conditioner not only cools your home but also helps maintain clean and fresh indoor air. So, make an informed choice and create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment for you and your loved ones.

Our team at Air and Energy of NWFL is always here to help, whether for diagnosing and fixing a problem or for preventative check-ups.

Don't let your AC let you down—give us a call today!

This article was written by:

Sam Seeber

Co-founder and Home Comfort Specialist

Click here to connect with Sam on LinkedIn