Are You Breathing Toxic Air at Home Without Knowing? Expert Reveals Shocking Health Risks of Your AC – Learn the Warning Signs Now!
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As we seek refuge from the scorching heat, air conditioning units have become our steadfast allies, offering a cool sanctuary within the walls of our homes. But could these very sources of comfort be undermining our health? It's a question that's not only valid but also vital, especially for our senior community members who spend considerable time indoors.
Unexplained headaches, persistent coughs, runny noses, dizziness, and fatigue – these symptoms can be easily attributed to the common cold or even the flu. However, if these ailments persist with no apparent cause, it's time to turn a scrutinising eye towards a household staple: your air conditioning unit.
The convenience of modern air conditioning is undeniable, but it comes with a caveat. If not properly installed, maintained, or cleaned, these units can become breeding grounds for mould, which can lead to serious health complications for those breathing in the contaminated air.
Tony Abate, an indoor air quality expert and vice president of AtmosAir Solutions, warns that dirty air conditioning units, especially those harbouring mould, can significantly impact your health by spreading mould and other contaminants within a room.
Black mould, a common culprit found in poorly maintained AC units, thrives in moist environments caused by water damage, leaks, condensation, or flooding. According to the Cleveland Clinic, black mould can trigger immune responses, exacerbate allergies, and cause symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, congestion, and eye irritation.
Shu Saito, founder and CEO of HVAC and filtration company All Filters, emphasises that filthy air conditioners and those infested with mould create health hazards primarily from compromised indoor air quality. Mould growth on the surface of AC units, due to dust, dirt, and moisture, can release spores into the air, leading to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and increased severity of asthma and allergic reactions.
For individuals with weakened immune systems, exposure to black mould can lead to mycosis, a fungal infection that causes fatigue, muscle aches, chest pain, weight loss, and asthma-like symptoms. Other types of mould, such as alternaria and chaetomium, can also grow in air conditioning systems, each with its distinct appearance and potential health risks.
If you notice a musty odour or see black spots around your AC unit, it's a sign that mould may be present. In such cases, reaching out to specialists for testing is advisable. While professional testing can be costly, averaging around $400, budget-friendly DIY test kits are available for initial inspections, ranging from $15 to $200.
Glenn Gault, CEO at Gault Heating & Cooling, explains that AC units pull in air from the room, cool it, and then release it back. If mould spores are growing on the coils or other internal parts, they can be blown out with the air, lowering indoor air quality and posing a significant health threat.
To prevent these issues, experts recommend annual cleaning of the evaporator coil, draining and cleaning the condensate drip tray, changing air filters every three months, and investing in a stand-alone dehumidifier. UV germicidal lamps are also suggested as they can prevent future mould, mildew, and bacteria growth.
Proper maintenance of air conditioning units is crucial not only for a cool home but also for a healthy one. Neglect can lead to degraded performance, higher energy expenses, and most importantly, compromised health.
For our senior members who may be more susceptible to the effects of poor air quality, it's essential to be vigilant about the state of your AC units. Regular maintenance and awareness of the warning signs can go a long way in ensuring that the air you breathe at home is as refreshing and safe as it is cool.
Have you experienced any health issues that you suspect may be linked to your air conditioning? Share your experiences and tips for maintaining a healthy home environment in the comments below. Your insights could be invaluable to fellow members of the Seniors Discount Club.
Unexplained headaches, persistent coughs, runny noses, dizziness, and fatigue – these symptoms can be easily attributed to the common cold or even the flu. However, if these ailments persist with no apparent cause, it's time to turn a scrutinising eye towards a household staple: your air conditioning unit.
Clean air conditioning units could give a sense of relief for people escaping the heat. Image Credit: Pexels/Max Vakhtbovycn
The convenience of modern air conditioning is undeniable, but it comes with a caveat. If not properly installed, maintained, or cleaned, these units can become breeding grounds for mould, which can lead to serious health complications for those breathing in the contaminated air.
Tony Abate, an indoor air quality expert and vice president of AtmosAir Solutions, warns that dirty air conditioning units, especially those harbouring mould, can significantly impact your health by spreading mould and other contaminants within a room.
Black mould, a common culprit found in poorly maintained AC units, thrives in moist environments caused by water damage, leaks, condensation, or flooding. According to the Cleveland Clinic, black mould can trigger immune responses, exacerbate allergies, and cause symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, congestion, and eye irritation.
Shu Saito, founder and CEO of HVAC and filtration company All Filters, emphasises that filthy air conditioners and those infested with mould create health hazards primarily from compromised indoor air quality. Mould growth on the surface of AC units, due to dust, dirt, and moisture, can release spores into the air, leading to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and increased severity of asthma and allergic reactions.
For individuals with weakened immune systems, exposure to black mould can lead to mycosis, a fungal infection that causes fatigue, muscle aches, chest pain, weight loss, and asthma-like symptoms. Other types of mould, such as alternaria and chaetomium, can also grow in air conditioning systems, each with its distinct appearance and potential health risks.
If you notice a musty odour or see black spots around your AC unit, it's a sign that mould may be present. In such cases, reaching out to specialists for testing is advisable. While professional testing can be costly, averaging around $400, budget-friendly DIY test kits are available for initial inspections, ranging from $15 to $200.
Glenn Gault, CEO at Gault Heating & Cooling, explains that AC units pull in air from the room, cool it, and then release it back. If mould spores are growing on the coils or other internal parts, they can be blown out with the air, lowering indoor air quality and posing a significant health threat.
To prevent these issues, experts recommend annual cleaning of the evaporator coil, draining and cleaning the condensate drip tray, changing air filters every three months, and investing in a stand-alone dehumidifier. UV germicidal lamps are also suggested as they can prevent future mould, mildew, and bacteria growth.
Proper maintenance of air conditioning units is crucial not only for a cool home but also for a healthy one. Neglect can lead to degraded performance, higher energy expenses, and most importantly, compromised health.
For our senior members who may be more susceptible to the effects of poor air quality, it's essential to be vigilant about the state of your AC units. Regular maintenance and awareness of the warning signs can go a long way in ensuring that the air you breathe at home is as refreshing and safe as it is cool.
