Air conditioning has become a necessity in most of the commercial and residential buildings nowadays. It can give us the comfort we need on hot days and helps to improve the quality of indoor air by reducing humidity levels.

However, little do we realize that air conditioning can be harmful to our health if not used properly. In this article, we will explore some of the health hazards of air conditioning and how you can avoid them.

The Hazards of Air Conditioning

The most common problem caused by air conditioning is its ability to dry out the air. Air conditioning units remove moisture from the air, which can lead to nasal congestion, dry skin, and irritations to the eyes.

The lack of moisture in the air can also cause respiratory problems like asthma, especially for those who are sensitive to such changes in humidity levels.

Spread of Airborne Diseases

Another problem with air conditioning is that it can help to spread airborne diseases.

Air conditioning units work by circulating the same air through the room, which means that if someone in the room has a cold or flu, the virus can spread quickly to everyone else in the room. The same goes for bacteria and other pollutants. The more the air in the room is circulated, the greater the chance of spreading diseases.

That’s why it’s important to have your air conditioning units properly cleaned and maintained on a regular basis.

Headaches and Fatigue

It may come as a surprise to you, but being in an air-conditioned room for too long can also cause headaches and fatigue. When we are in an air-conditioned environment, our bodies have to work harder to maintain a constant body temperature.

This can cause a strain on the body, leading to headaches and fatigue. Additionally, if the air conditioning unit is not set at the right temperature or if there is a big difference between the temperature outside and inside the room, it can also cause headaches and fatigue.

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Skin Irritations and Allergies

Air conditioning units can also aggravate skin allergies and irritations. The dry air can make eczema worse, and the cold air can cause chapped lips and dry skin.

Air conditioning units can also trigger allergic reactions by circulating dust and pollen particles throughout the room. This can cause people to sneeze or cough, especially for those who are sensitive to such allergens.

Noise Pollution

Finally, air conditioning units can also contribute to noise pollution. If the unit is not properly maintained or if it’s too old, it can make a lot of noise. This can be a distraction for people who are studying or working in the room.

It’s important to have your air conditioning units checked and maintained on a regular basis to prevent noise pollution.

Preventive Measures

Now that we’ve explored some of the health hazards of air conditioning, let’s take a look at some preventive measures you can take to avoid these problems:.

Set your air conditioning unit to a comfortable temperature. Experts recommend setting the temperature between 22°C and 25°C. Anything below that can be harmful to your health.
Ensure that your air conditioning unit is properly maintained and cleaned regularly. Filters should be changed on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergen buildup.
If possible, keep your windows open while using your air conditioning units. This will allow fresh air to circulate and reduce the risk of spreading airborne diseases.
Invest in a good air purifier. An air purifier can help to remove dust, allergens, and pollutants from the air, making it safer to breathe.
Avoid spending too much time in air-conditioned rooms. Try to alternate between air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms to give your body a break from the constant temperature changes.

Conclusion

Air conditioning can provide us with comfort on hot days, but we should also be aware of the potential health hazards of using it.

The lack of moisture in the air, the spread of airborne diseases, headaches and fatigue, skin irritations and allergies, and noise pollution are some of the problems associated with air conditioning.

By taking preventive measures like setting your air conditioning unit to a comfortable temperature, maintaining and cleaning it regularly, and investing in a good air purifier, you can avoid these hazards and enjoy the benefits of air conditioning without compromising your health.