Air conditioning systems are a valuable way of controlling the
atmosphere within workplaces and houses alike. They help to maintain a
temperature that is safe, healthy and comfortable. Till the time these
units are properly sustained, the advantages they offer are risk-free.
However, if any of the precautions are neglected, it is possible for the
system to become a potential health hazard.
What are the dangers of a poorly maintained unit?
One of the biggest side effects of a badly maintained air conditioning
unit is that it has the ability to spread disease causing microorganisms
through air circulation. Since most houses and offices have central air
conditioning, any such health hazard is spread effectively throughout
the area. Contaminants and pollutants inside the system contribute to a
number of health problems like:-
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Sinusitis
- Sore throat and coughing
- Fatigue
- Wheezing and congestion
- Flu-like illnesses
- Nose, eye and throat irritation
Such issues often pop up because of poor cleaning leading to dirt,
dust, and other allergic particles being carried around by circulating
air. When viruses, bacteria, or fungi contaminate the air conditioning
system, dangers can become more severe. A variety of illnesses can be
spread or caused by lack of maintenance. Perhaps the most common disease
that is spread due to problems with the A/C is Legionnaire's disease.
The Legionella bacteria develops in temperatures between seventy to
hundred Fahrenheit, making the moist, warm climate inside the A/C units
an ideal ground for breeding. This disease is basically a kind of
pneumonia with signs such as body aches, headache, nausea, high fever
and chest pains. If not treated on time, Legionnaire can cause permanent
mental or physical damage to the body. If the fever is not reduced and
antibodies are ineffective, death can also occur.
The solution
The best way of avoiding these dangers is to ensure that your system
is regularly checked, well-maintained, and kept clean. Regular cleaning,
particularly around outlets and intakes, is the best way to avoid
problems related to asthma or allergies. Outlets and intakes are not
just the easiest areas to reach, but also where allergens and dust tends
to collect most. Simply averting dust build-up can go a long way in
preventing the hazards.
This also involves not letting your unit sit idle. Water must keep
flowing through the unit rather than keeping it stagnant, because still
water gives a chance for disease-causing agents to multiply. It is also
advised to keep the water at a temperature that does not allow
legionella and other organisms to thrive. This means keeping the element
above 140 Fahrenheit or 60 degrees centigrade, or cooling it to less
than 68 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 degrees centigrade.
Maintaining an A/C unit
regularly can help in reducing health risks to a great extent. Speak to
a HVAC professional for details on ways to conserve your air
conditioning system. Given how easy it is to have a system cleaned, it’s
a very small price to pay to guard it against health issues. The
effectiveness and quality of the air conditioner filters and the health
of your family are very strongly connected. Hence, it is also
recommended to go for a more systematic, professional cleaning to ensure
that proper hygiene is maintained at all times. One of the best ways to
find out about HVAC experts is to look online. The internet offers a
plethora of options for you to choose from.
