Ninety percent of American households and workspaces have an air conditioning system. Most people can’t go a whole day without walking into a space only to be blasted by the cool air of an AC unit. This type of technology allows for a person to be comfortable indoors while the elements outside change with the seasons. But what effect, if any, does it have on physical health?
Workspaces
It has been proven, by the Berkeley National Laboratory’s Indoor Environment Group, that people who work in offices with an AC system report symptoms from a condition called sick building syndrome (SBS). These symptoms include eye, nose or throat irritations as well as respiratory issues such as a persistent cough.
This could be attributed to the moisture that AC units produce. This moisture causes the AC to become compromised by small pollutants such as bacteria and allergens. If circulated through the air that a person breathes most of the day, these pollutants will have a negative influence on a person’s body.
Another factor affecting people who work in office buildings is the contrast between the regulated temperature of their office and the heat from outside. If a person is constantly walking in and out of an air-conditioned building, their body could have a hard time adjusting. This could result in respiratory issues, dry skin, and/or mucous membranes.
Households
The risks of an AC unit in your home are very similar to that of an AC in your workspace. However, with regards to your physical health, there are different factors to consider. Firstly, while you may be a tidy person who keeps a spotless home, particles can still wind up in your air ducts.
These particles include:
- Dust;
- Pet dander;
- Dirt;
- Cigar and cigarette smoke; and
- Allergens
Over time, all these pollutants (and more) can end up clogging your AC and creating an unhealthy living situation for you and your family as you breathe in these toxins.
AC Maintenance
Most of these illness symptoms are quite minor and completely preventable, if you or your company regularly get your AC and air ducts serviced by a trained HVAC technician. Not only will you literally breath easier with a clean AC system, you will also feel healthier. In some instances, being inside with a clean AC blowing fresh air through your house can reduce exposure to pollutants that can trigger allergies and asthma.
Contact Hembree Heating & Air Conditioning
At Hembree Heating & Air Conditioning we strive to provide every client with service that fits their specific needs, from repair to replacement and everything in between. If you are worried about the air quality of your home or business, give us a call today.
Call us at (251) 259-4664 or contact us online for a FREE estimate.