Outside of your home is a condenser unit that removes the heat from your home keeping you cool. Silica dust is lodging in the fins of your condenser as you read this article. When these particles lodge in your condenser fins, your air conditioner unit may stop working. By using a water hose from a reasonable distance so as not to bend any of the fins, you may dislodge these particles and clean away this silica thus improving performance. I prefer using a coil cleaner that you may buy at a local store. The coil cleaner is good for both the evaporator (usually in the attic) and condenser (unit outside). Just follow the directions. Doing this maintenance, yourself may increase the longevity of your unit.

You should also note this dust is also considered a hazard when exposed for a long time. Stay informed as this topic is covered by most all major weather stations.

Health Effects OSHA – People who inhale these very small crystalline silica particles are at increased risk of developing serious silica-related diseases, including:

• Silicosis, an incurable lung disease that can lead to disability and death;
• Lung cancer;
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); and
• Kidney disease.