Air conditioners are extremely beneficial to our comfort, however, these specially-designed systems must be regularly maintained, evaluated, and cleaned or they may pose a danger to your health.
Your air conditioner and the cool, crisp air that it creates is not considered to be harmful. Unfortunately, the unit has a way of interacting with environmental conditions and resulting in sickness.
When this happens, it is referred to as “sick building syndrome”. Continue reading to learn more and how to avoid suffering its ill effects.
What is Sick Building Syndrome?
When sick building syndrome occurs, it indicates that a situation has occurred where the inhabitants of a structure (apartment, home, etc.) are experiencing health-related issues as a result of a condition that has developed.
Sick building syndrome may be caused by other situations – apart from the air conditioning unit. Examples include issues stemming from chemicals, materials, and infected air quality stemming from an issue outside of air conditioning.
Sick Building Syndrome Due to Air Conditioning
There are many ways that an air conditioner unit may result in the development of sick building syndrome. These include the following:
- The air conditioner may not have adequate ventilation. As a result, it does not distribute air in an effective manner to the people throughout the building.
- If there are chemical contaminants within the building – such as those from adhesives, carpeting, pesticides, etc. – the air conditioner may circulate these throughout the home, resulting in air-borne carcinogens that may result in illness.
- If there is a high level of outdoor air pollution, an air conditioner unit may pull in that outdoor pollution into the interior surfaces of the home.
- Many air conditioners that are not properly maintained or cleaned on a regular basis may act as a breeding ground for biological contaminants. These include viruses, bacteria, pollen, mold, and mildew. Once the contaminants become lodged in the system, they will be blown around inside of the home.
What Are the Symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome Caused by Air Conditioning?
Many symptoms may occur if your air conditioner is making your home “sick”. You may develop respiratory complications such as coughing, sneezing, chest congestion, and breathing problems.
You may find that your muscles ache and that you run a fever. It is possible for gastrointestinal complications like nausea, vomiting, and even diarrhea to occur. You may also develop secondary infections.
If you or your loved ones are suffering from unexplainable symptoms, it is imperative that you seek medical treatment right away.
Air quality is essential to your comfort and your health. Yes, your air conditioner can cause poor air quality. You should have the system maintained and evaluated on a regular basis to provide a boost to your health.
For more information, contact us today at: 770-766-9212