How Your HVAC Unit Can Impact Your Health

As summer approaches and the temperatures rise, many of us will rely on air conditioning units to keep us cool and comfortable. However, it’s important to note that while air conditioning units can provide relief from the heat, they can also negatively affect your health.

To address this, we’ve compiled a list of how your HVAC unit can impact your health and what you can do to alleviate certain air conditioning health problems.

Air Conditioning Health Problems

Your HVAC unit works by circulating air through an intricate system of ducts and vents, cooling it, and removing moisture. While this process can help keep your home nice and cool, it can also negatively affect your health. Listed below are some common air conditioning health problems that you might run into this summer:

Respiratory problems

AC units can circulate dust, mold, and other irritating allergens through the air in your home, which can aggravate your respiratory system. This can lead to health problems like allergies and asthma, which typically cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Dry skin

Your HVAC unit removes moisture from the air, which helps prevent mold from growing in your home. However, the lack of moisture in the air may lead to dry skin and other skin irritations for some people. This can be especially problematic for people with eczema or similar skin conditions.

Dehydration

Not a lot of people know that sitting in an air-conditioned room for an extended period of time can make you dehydrated. However, the cold air can make you feel less thirsty, so you might not hydrate as often as you should. This can lead to headaches, fatigue, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Eye irritation

AC units can also cause eye irritation, especially if the air blows directly into your face. This can lead to dry, itchy eyes and redness. If you haven’t replaced your HVAC filter in a while, this will likely worsen matters, as dust and harmful particles could fly into your eyes and irritate them even more.

How to Alleviate Air Conditioning Health Problems

Maintain Your HVAC Unit

Regular maintenance of your HVAC unit will help to keep it clean and functional. This will reduce the number of allergens and particles circulating through the air.

Stay Hydrated

Make sure to drink plenty of water, especially during the summer months! Even if you don’t feel thirsty, staying hydrated is important.

Use Eye Drops

If you experience eye irritation, try using eye drops to help moisturize your eyes. Using a couple of eye drops in the morning and at night can truly work wonders.

Final Thoughts

While air conditioning units can provide significant relief from the heat, they can also cause some unpleasant health problems. However, by taking steps to maintain your HVAC unit and alleviate air conditioning health problems, you can stay cool and comfortable without compromising your health this summer. If you need any assistance with your HVAC unit, Stephens is here to help. Give us a call or schedule an appointment today to begin the process and receive a free estimate.