Maintaining a healthy indoor environment is important for good health. Sometimes, household appliances, like air conditioners, can pose health risks. Air conditioners provide comfort but can also inadvertently contribute to respiratory issues and other health concerns if they’re not maintained well. Some symptoms may include fatigue, breathing issues, allergies, and eye irritation. It is important to have one of our professionals from Element Air LLC check your air conditioner periodically, and you should contact a medical professional when experiencing severe or long-term symptoms.
Persistent Coughing or Wheezing
If you breathe contaminated air from an air conditioner, it can irritate your respiratory system, resulting in persistent coughing or wheezing. Allergens or irritants in the air can trigger these symptoms, causing discomfort and difficulty breathing. Ensuring that your air conditioner has a regular cleaning schedule is crucial to preventing the accumulation of pollutants that can negatively impact indoor air quality. People with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma may be particularly susceptible to these symptoms.
Increased Allery Symptoms
If you experience a sudden surge in allergy symptoms like frequent sneezing, itchy eyes, or a runny nose, it might be because of the allergens circulating within your indoor environment. Contaminants present in the air, such as dust, pollen, or pet dander, are sometimes recirculated by an air conditioner, causing allergic reactions. It is essential to address this issue promptly to alleviate discomfort and ensure healthier indoor air quality.
Difficulty Breathing
Your home’s air conditioner can circulate contaminated air filled with particles, pollutants, and irritants that have the potential to exacerbate respiratory symptoms. These contaminants can make breathing more challenging. By reducing the presence of these harmful substances, you can breathe more easily and minimize the impact on your respiratory health.
Fatigue and Weakness
When the ventilation in your home is insufficient, it can disrupt the balance of your indoor air, ultimately causing fatigue and weakness. An air conditioner without adequate airflow may contribute to the lack of ventilation. In such instances, the inadequate supply of fresh oxygen and the buildup of carbon dioxide can leave you feeling drained and lacking energy.
Headaches
Air conditioning systems can contribute to the onset of headaches. One possible reason is circulation of air that contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are released into the air by various materials present in buildings, such as paints, carpets, or cleaning products. Inhaling VOCs can lead to headaches or migraines, particularly if you are sensitive to these substances.
Skin Irritation
Air conditioners, if not regularly maintained, can cause skin irritation. When the air conditioner is dirty, it can accumulate dust and other particles that may irritate your skin. These irritants may lead to itchiness, redness, or even rashes. Additionally, air conditioners can lower the humidity levels in your home, resulting in dry skin. Dry skin is more prone to irritation, flakiness, and discomfort.
Eye Irritation
Since air conditioners decrease humidity, causing dryness, they can irritate the eyes as well as the skin. In addition, prolonged exposure to the cool air blown by air conditioners can also contribute to eye dryness and discomfort. The direct flow of cold air can strip away moisture from the eyes, leaving them irritated. To combat this, using a humidifier can help increase humidity levels and prevent excessive dryness. It’s also crucial to ensure regular air conditioner cleaning, filter replacement, and proper ventilation.
Increased Respiratory Infections
Air conditioners can lead to an increased risk of respiratory infections. An air conditioner may become a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. These pathogens are sometimes released by an air conditioner into the indoor air, increasing the likelihood of respiratory infections.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded may be because of your home’s air conditioner. Improper ventilation in enclosed spaces can lead to a decrease in fresh air supply and an increase in carbon dioxide levels. This can result in a condition known as carbon dioxide retention, where an excessive buildup of carbon dioxide affects oxygen levels and causes dizziness or lightheadedness.
How to Remedy the Situation
The foremost thing to remember is that a clean AC is your best defense against these symptoms. Change the filter regularly and schedule a professional cleaning from us at Element Air LLC annually. However, in some cases, this may not be enough. Our expert HVAC technicians can also assist you with air balancing and installation of a whole-house air purifier or humidifier. In addition, we can inspect, clean, and repair your ductwork.
Our friendly team also provides a full range of cooling, heating, and indoor air quality equipment installation, repair, and maintenance for your home. Contact us at Element Air LLC today for more information.
