With the nasty heat wave, it is needless to say that air conditioning units have made our lives easier. They have become our reliable companions in times of extreme heat and humidity—and have provided much-needed comfort when working or accomplishing tasks at home.
However, despite the wonderful benefits that AC units have provided, it has now become a debate among many whether air conditioning units are good for your health or not. Some people believe that the sudden drop in temperature may have negative effects on the immune system and that air conditioning units may spread and cultivate germs, bacteria, and viruses.
But are these all true? Can air conditioning give you a cold? Can AC units make you sick? Well, here’s what experts would like you to know.
Can AC Units Cause Colds?
According to expert allergists and immunologists, cold air coming from AC units is not the main culprit for why you may not feel well when staying in an air-conditioned room. Science has it that cold air and weather do not technically cause colds. However, the cold weather can cause the lining of our noses and throats to go drier, making them prone to viral infections.
Pathogens affect all living creatures. They make people sick — not the air conditioning unit. Viruses, fungi, bacteria, and other types of pathogens thrive better in a low-humidity environment. That’s why during the winter season, many experience colds and flu.
Why are Air Conditioners Associated with Colds?
While your AC unit is not the direct culprit of your colds—or other respiratory concerns—staying in an air-conditioned room increases the likelihood of getting exposed to pathogens, especially when your HVAC system is not regularly maintained.
When your air conditioning units are not regularly cleaned, they can become a perfect breeding ground for a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi as they prosper in damp and dark conditions, resulting in various health conditions like sneezing, coughs, wheezing, irritated nasal passages, infections, allergies, asthma, and colds.
Is it Time to Ditch Your Air Conditioning Unit?
There’s a reason why you decided to purchase that air conditioning unit: comfort, particularly in times of extreme heat. Ditching your air conditioning unit does not guarantee that you will be spared from experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms. By doing so, you even put yourself at risk as other health concerns triggered by heat stress conditions, such as heat stroke, dehydration, heart disease, and many others, may arise.
The best thing to do to ensure your safety? Have professionals regularly tune up your HVAC system. Part of the maintenance services provided by a reliable AC maintenance service provider, Fast Affordable Air, is meticulously checking the parts of your AC unit if there is any leakage or clogging. Aside from that, we also clean the evaporator coils so that your air conditioner will function at its best. Most importantly, our highly-skilled professionals will provide you with everything that you need to know regarding the current status of your unit. Through this, you can prevent any problems that may lead to serious health concerns brought about by your AC unit.
Put an end to your worries about you catching a cold because of your air conditioning unit. Call Fast Affordable Air to know the real status of your AC unit and keep your home in Las Vegas a safe and healthy place to live in.
