Is Your Air Conditioning Making You Sick? Understanding the Impact on Your Health

Air conditioning, the unsung hero of summer, offers respite from scorching heat. But could it secretly be plotting to make you sick? Many have pondered this question, wondering if the cool breeze could be harbouring germs or if a malfunctioning unit might be compromising their health. In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating world of air conditioning to uncover its impact on your well-being.

Air Conditioning: More Than Just Cooling

When you think of air conditioning, you probably envision it as your trusty summer companion, keeping your home cool. While this is undoubtedly its primary role, air conditioning does much more.

Air conditioning not only keeps you comfortable but also plays the role of a guardian angel during scorching heatwaves. It provides relief to pets, seniors, and children who are vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Moreover, your AC is like a silent warrior, battling and purifying the air by filtering out pollutants, including particles, ozone and allergens. For those battling allergies, air conditioning can be a lifesaver. It keeps you cool without exposing you to outdoor allergens. But does this mean your AC is infallible when it comes to your health?

Can Air Conditioning Make You Sick?

The answer isn’t black and white. A well-maintained air conditioning unit generally won’t make you sick. However, if it circulates cold-causing viruses or harbours mould, bacteria or other microbes, you might experience some issues.

Neglecting your air conditioning’s maintenance can lead to health issues. Stagnant water in the unit can become a breeding ground for mould and bacteria. If these microbes infiltrate your home’s air, you may experience symptoms like dry eyes, irritated throat, and even headaches. Certain individuals, such as those with allergies, asthma, seniors, children or people with weakened immune systems, are even more susceptible to these health risks.

How Air Conditioning Affects Your Health

Your air conditioning’s impact on your health extends beyond mould and bacteria. Running your aircon at very cold temperatures can facilitate the spread of cold-causing viruses. Low humidity and chilly conditions create a favourable environment for these viruses.

While being cold won’t directly make you sick, it can contribute to the spread of cold viruses. Be mindful of symptoms like a sore throat, sneezing, stuffy nose, watery eyes and excessive mucus when your aircon is set to polar temperatures.

Preventing Air Conditioning-Induced Health Issues

Your air conditioning unit is more than just a cooling system; it’s a protector and a purifier. While it won’t typically make you sick, neglecting its care can lead to health issues. Keep your air conditioning unit in top shape with regular maintenance, and it will continue to be your summer saviour, not a hidden health hazard. If you need your air conditioning unit serviced, don’t hesitate to contact Simply Cool, your local air conditioning experts.