As the temperature in Las Vegas continues to change, there will come a time when you will badly need to turn on your air conditioning unit. While these AC units are built to bring comfort and relief indoors, many have associated these functions with causing sore throats.
For once and for all, let’s settle this frequently asked question: can air conditioning give you a sore throat? Should you blame your AC unit when you feel a little more parched than usual upon waking up in the morning? Is it reasonable to attribute your health concerns to your AC?
What Causes Sore Throat?
Before you put all the blame on your poor air conditioner, we must be clear about one thing: sore throats can be caused by a lot of things. According to studies, sore throats can be caused by viruses (such as colds, flu, COVID-19, measles, mumps, and chickenpox), bacteria (strep throat), mononucleosis, smoking, dry air, pollution, allergies, irritants, and even the general anesthesia applied during surgery can cause that discomfort felt in the throat.
Can Your AC Unit Cause Sore Throat?
Air conditioning units were primarily designed to lower the temperature in an indoor environment by removing the existing heat and moisture from the room. While a well-functioning air conditioning unit provides relief from the extreme heat felt, this has been pointed out by some as a cause of their sore throats—a reaction they believe to be caused by the cool air circulating the home through the AC unit.
As your AC unit removes the humidity by transferring the hot air outside and recycling cooled air, you might have to deal with dryness and irritation when sick-inducing allergens begin to circulate in your home or office. While your AC unit can be highly beneficial, this can also result in airborne allergens, causing your noses to feel stuffy, your throats sore, and even causing you to have some difficulty in breathing.
Here are some of the reasons why your AC may have caused your sore throat.
- Poor AC Unit Installation
Stagnant water is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, likewise with stale air. If your AC unit was incorrectly installed, the air circulating in your home or office may cause large amounts of dust to accumulate, thereby attracting dust mites that are bound to aggravate your allergies.
For this reason, you have to make sure that you only hire the best HVAC service provider in Las Vegas. Fast Affordable Air is a pro in terms of air conditioning unit installations. With seasoned professionals working on your AC unit, you can be certain that it will perform at its best for years to come.
- Dry Air
According to studies, a low amount of moisture can greatly impact those who are highly sensitive to allergens. Not only that this can trigger those with allergies, but the cold and dry air may also cause cough – and in worse cases, asthma. To prevent this from happening, make sure to run your AC system with the vent control open or with windows open from time to time to allow fresh air to get into your home. By doing so, your AC unit will be able to cycle new air all through the unit, improving the quality of air around, and preventing it from being stagnant.
- Lack of Air Conditioning Unit Maintenance
Try to recall the last time you had your AC unit checked. Can’t remember anymore? Always make sure to take note of it. Remember that maintenance is a crucial part not only of your HVAC system but also of your health and wellness.
As air filters and air ducts trap dirt and allergens, it is extremely important to have them regularly cleaned. These ultimately harbor a huge number of bacteria and allergens that may turn into mold if left unchecked. At least you have your AC units serviced at least twice a year by a credible HVAC service provider, like Fast Affordable Air, to make sure that they are always at the peak of their performance.
If you really think that your sore throat is primarily caused by the air quality of your home in Las Vegas, don’t hesitate to contact Fast Affordable Air to help assess the problem in your HVAC system and determine the best options for fixing your AC unit. Contact us now!
