Is Your AC Making You Sick?
We are dependent on our air conditioning system to keep cool and comfortable indoors. Air conditioners can be a life saver especially during the hot summer months in the San Fernando Valley and LA. However, if not properly maintained or incorrectly used air conditioning systems can lead to “air conditioning sickness.” Air conditioning sickness can often be described as a cold, stuffy, weak feeling when you have been indoors with AC on for too long. Keep in mind the air conditioner itself is not making you sick, but the way they interact with our environment can. In fact, AC systems can be beneficial to individuals who suffer from allergies or other respiratory issues when properly used. Below we discuss more about what “air conditioning sickness” symptoms to look out for and what you can do to help avoid them in your home.
Breathing Problems
Air conditioning systems are not only responsible for cooling, but also for air circulation and cleaning. HVAC filters are in place to stop dust, debris, and other contaminants from entering the home and the system. If the filters are not replaced as often as they should, then they can be breeding grounds for mold, bacteria and fungi and cause many other issues with the HVAC system. If these contaminants remain in your air conditioner they can potentially lead to respiratory issues. Be sure to keep your air conditioning system on a routine maintenance schedule and regularly change the filter.
Headaches
The AC may be the cause for the constant stuffy, congested, headaches you get after being in an air-conditioned building all day. Try turning the temperature up on your thermostat so you are not freezing all day. Furthermore, take frequent breaks to step outside and get some fresh air.
Dry Skin
Air conditioners are also responsible for regulating humidity in your home. Cold, dry air pulls moisture from the skin and the more time spend in air conditioning,the dryer your skin may become. Use moisturizer and stay hydrated throughout the day. Consider installing a humidifier to remedy the dry air or find a setting that keeps you cool and prevents dryness.
Cold Symptoms
According to International Journal of Epidemiology those that spend a lot of time in air-conditioned environments tend to require a high amount of health care services for cold symptoms.Your nose, ears and throat are the body parts that are most often affected. It could be a result of constant exposure to recirculated dirt air from the AC system. Again, regular filter replacements, routine maintenance, a clean home or frequent fresh air can remedy the issue.
Increased Blood Pressure
The temperature of our surrounding environment can definitely affect our blood pressure and our health. Being in a cold temperature environment, causes our bodies to find other ways to avoid losing body heat. One way our bodies do this, is by constricting the arteries in our skin leading to smaller passages where the blood flows causing increased blood pressure. If you suffer from hypertension you can stop this effect by setting your AC to mild temperatures and avoiding extreme cold.
Give Us A Call Today
To avoid air conditioning sickness schedule regular AC maintenance and be sure to replace your filter in between visits. You also want to be sure to clear your home of any mold, mildew, dust or any other allergens that may be present in your home. Remember to keep your home at a comfortable temperature enough to keep cool. We understand air conditioning sickness can be frustrating, give LA Construction Heating and Air a call at 818-341-3406 or contact us online to schedule maintenance for your system.
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