When you live in Alexandria, Virginia, your air conditioner is critical for staying comfortable in warm weather. But how well do you really know your HVAC system? These four facts about air conditioning might surprise you.

Air Conditioners Have Kept Their Cool for Over a Century

In the late 19th century, many well-to-do homeowners relied on electric fans to circulate air and keep cool. Willis Carrier invented the air conditioner in 1902, and these systems began to appear in commercial buildings and theaters. The first completely air-conditioned home was finished in 1913 and residential cooling systems grew in popularity soon thereafter.

Cooling Systems Save Lives

The population in the hottest parts of the nation didn’t grow substantially until the advent of air conditioning. In the last 50 years, cooling systems have lowered the chances of dying on hot days by more than 80 percent.

Air Conditioners do More Than Just Cool

Many people consider air conditioners to be cooling systems, but in reality, they do more than just lower indoor temperatures. In fact, Carrier developed the first air conditioner to decrease humidity in a New York City publishing house. Today, humidity control is still a key component of air conditioning systems. These units make indoor spaces more comfortable by both decreasing humidity and cooling the air.

Filters Are Critical Components

You might not think much of the disposable filters that trap dust and dirt, but they are actually one of the most important parts of your air conditioner. In fact, without an air filter, your HVAC system wouldn’t last long at all. These components are responsible for capturing particles and debris so that they don’t enter your HVAC system and slow down the moving parts or stop them altogether. Some filters also trap pet dander, pollen, and other contaminants, helping your family breathe easier.

Is it time you gave your air conditioner some much-needed attention? Call the experienced air conditioning technicians at Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning today at 703-783-0145 to schedule preventive maintenance or to discuss a new installation.

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