In today’s hot and humid climates, air conditioners have become an absolute necessity for many people. However, like with any other kind of technology, there are many myths circulating about air cons and their supposed health implications.
This post will explore these myths in detail, to help you ensure your safety while operating an air conditioner.
6 myths about air conditioners
1. Cold Air Hurts Your Health
While it is true that cold air can cause problems like sinus congestion or aggravate existing asthma symptoms, this isn’t due to the direct effects of the cold air itself but rather allergies and respiratory issues aggravated by dust particles being circulated through the AC unit.
Regular maintenance and an AC tune-up, such as filter changes and keeping the AC clean can reduce risks associated with this issue.
2. Air Conditioners Can Make You Sick
While air conditioners can be a source of mold and other contaminants, most modern AC units have mechanisms in place to prevent this from happening.
Filters need to be frequently changed, coils should be inspected for dirt build-up, and the unit itself should be regularly cleaned with products specifically designed for use around AC units.
There is no scientific evidence suggesting that exposure to cold temperatures increases the risk of developing colds or flu. However, it is important to note that people who are already sick may feel colder than usual due to their illness.
Therefore, it is important to dress appropriately and stay warm in cold weather.
Related Posts
3. Air Conditioners Cause Dehydration
This myth is actually true in certain circumstances. If the humidity level of a room drops below 20%, it can lead to dehydration, as the cold air from an AC unit will draw moisture from the skin and cause it to evaporate quickly.
To mitigate this, make sure your AC unit is set to maintain a humidity level of 40% or higher.
4. Air Conditioners Don’t Help With Allergies
While air conditioners won’t cure allergies, they do help reduce symptoms of airborne allergies by filtering out particles like pollen and other allergens from the air, making breathing easier and reducing allergic reactions.
5. Air Conditioners Are Not Environmentally Friendly
Have you heard the myth that using an air con takes up a lot of expensive electricity? It’s not entirely true.
These days, AC units use far less electricity than older models. Moreover, they come with adjustable settings to further reduce their energy consumption. That way, you can enjoy all the benefits of having a cool environment in your home without worrying about your carbon footprint.
6. Air Conditioners Do Not Emit Any Harmful Gasses
This is a fact that many people fail to realize. Modern AC units have been designed with the environment in mind and typically use eco-friendly refrigerants such as R410A, which are non-toxic and do not contribute to ozone depletion.
For this reason, air conditioners are safe for use in homes and will not put your health at risk from any hazardous gasses that might be emitted by other appliances or devices.
Additionally, their energy efficiency enables them to consume less power than older models, helping you save money on monthly utility bills.
In Conclusion
With the right knowledge and precautions, you can ensure your AC unit is safe to use while still enjoying all of its wonderful benefits. Make sure to keep up with regular maintenance, as this will help extend the life of your unit and reduce any potential risks.
By understanding the facts and following these few easy steps, you can confidently enjoy the cooling effects of an air conditioner without fear of compromising your health.
