You might be surprised to learn that a common issue we hear with old or unmaintained AC units is, “my air conditioning is making me sick”. the AC isn’t harmful on its own, but the units force air through your home which can carry germs, allergens, and debris, if not properly maintained. This leads to air conditioning sickness symptoms like:
- Itchy eyes
- Skin rashes
- Sore throat
- Stuffy noses
- Cough
If you’re among those Canadians concerned that your air conditioning is making you sick, we can help. Here are 4 prevention tips to avoid air conditioner sickness and keep you healthy no matter the thermostat setting.
1. Don’t Turn the AC on and Off or Go in and Out of the AC
Can you get sick from going in and out of air conditioning? Maybe. In cold temperatures, human bodies react for survival. Arteries constrict and blood vessels in throats and noses tighten. As a result, white blood counts are lower, which can weaken your immune system.
When you let your body run hot then cold, hot then cold, you run the risk of prolonging moments of weakened immunity. Especially if you’re sweating when you enter the AC as sweat keeps you colder longer.
2. Don’t Run Your AC Too Cold
Running an AC at low temperatures during summer is tempting, but when the temperature drops too low, your home becomes a breeding ground for viruses.
Cold air doesn’t hold humidity well, this makes the air dry as well. Dry air leads to itchy skin and eyes and can make our throats feel scratchy. If you’re wondering, “can you get a cough from air conditioning?” This dry air is one of the reasons the answer is yes.
3. Keep Your AC System Clean
According to scientists, badly maintained air conditioning, “can become contaminated and potentially harmful.” This is especially true for those with allergies or asthma. So, if you’re wondering can a dirty air conditioning make you sick? The answer is yes.
The best way to clean your AC is by calling an HVAC specialist. However, if you have a good understanding of your system, you can clean it by:
- Turning off the unit and unplugging or cutting power
- Opening the unit
- Wiping evaporator coils and drain pan
- Clearing plugged drains if necessary
- Closing the unit
If your unit has a cleanable reusable filter, you can vacuum and wipe the filter clean as well or simply replace it with a new one.
4. Have Regular AC Maintenance
The life of an average AC unit is between 10 to 15 years. Machines that are regularly maintained have a longer life span and reduce the risk of air conditioner illness in your home.
During routine maintenance, your HVAC specialist can tell you if you need to replace parts, change the filter, clean the AC unit, or recommend a new unit.
Contact Noll Climate Care Today
Are you looking for an HVAC specialist to inspect your air conditioner performance? Contact our HVAC experts today.
