In warm weather, a home air conditioner can feel pretty good as it circulates cool air throughout the home or office. However, that refreshing breeze coming through the window unit or whole house air conditioner can be hazardous for some people, under certain conditions. Here are a few things to beware of when running the A/C on those extra hot days.
Allergen Exposure
Most people don’t think about the tiny particles of debris that shoot out of an air conditioner vent along with cooler air. If the filter or internal parts are left uncleaned, mold, mildew, and dust can build up in the unit and be ejected through the vents when the air is being cooled and circulated.
Dust mites, pet dander, and other household allergens no longer lay dormant, but are sent throughout the home or office, exposing everyone to potentially unhealthy substances that can cause or irritate allergies. Be sure to at least do a visual check of your vents and replace the air filter before running the air the first time.
Pest Nesting
Insects like wasps, hornets, or bees can build nests in an external unit or if they infiltrate a home’s basement area. Mice and other small rodents have been known to nest in the air conditioner’s cavities and crevices on occasion. Although not exactly an everyday occurrence, when it does happen, these nests can eject a few insects or even a swarms inside a home or office when the unit is turned on, or sometimes even when it is off.
Although an air conditioner does not require routine cleaning by the home owner or office cleaning staff, it should be checked periodically for signs of infestation. In addition, if any pests are found in, and then removed from, any part of the A/C system, an inspection should be performed by an A/C repair professional before use.
Too Cool Temperature
People with compromised immune systems due to medical conditions or medications they are taking cannot afford to become chilled. If an air conditioner is inadvertently set too low, or if the weakened person does realize their susceptibility, they may be more likely to get sick if their immunity is disrupted.
People with low blood pressure or poor circulation may likewise experience some problems with using an air conditioner, or one that is set too low, especially if it blows directly on them for long periods of time or as they sleep.
The best way to check an air conditioner to ensure it is working properly to safely meet the cooling needs of the home resident or office worker is to schedule routine maintenance.
An annual inspection or checkup by A/C experts can prevent problems or address them when they are still minor. Make sure your air is safe. In the meantime you can rent an air cooler, until the AC is fixed.
