Is AC Healthy? Air Conditioning Problems and Benefits

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Air conditioning is a great tool that allows people to rapidly cool down enclosed spaces to comfortable temperatures. Like all relatively modern technological innovations, however, air conditioning faces its fair share of scrutiny on whether or not it’s truly safe and completely free of side effects.

While air conditioning is largely a good thing for human health, there are a few things that concerned homeowners and business owners should be aware of. It’s important to be completely cognizant of the health benefits and drawbacks associated with air conditioning before deciding to install air conditioning in the first place, repair your existing system or replace an older air conditioning network. Consulting with an expert in AC repair in St. Louis, MO is the best way to learn about the effects of air conditioning—both the positives and the negatives.

Health benefits of AC

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that there are several health benefits associated with air conditioning. In addition to increasing comfort, air conditioning units bring the following health benefits:

  • Lower heat-related symptoms: One of the most important benefits of air conditioning is that it reduces the impacts of heat-related symptoms and ailments, including heat stroke, dehydration and skin conditions. Overexposure to heat often causes excessive sweating, which can result in bedsores and more. Air conditioning reduces the risk of suffering from all of these ailments.
  • Improves indoor air quality: Even if you keep your home impeccably clean, there are still large amounts of dust, dander, pollen and more floating through your abode. Air conditioning systems filter the air prior to intake; this results in cleaner, healthier indoor air. Investing in air conditioning can help you reduce allergy and asthma symptoms.
  • Enhances sleep: It’s no secret that it’s difficult to sleep when it’s warm outside. Investing in air conditioning is a great way to help yourself get the best night’s sleep possible. It’s said that the best sleep occurs when it’s 68 degrees or lower; air conditioning allows you to precisely control the temperature of your bedroom.

Drawbacks of AC

There are also, however, several health risks that air conditioning systems pose, including the following:

  • Improper humidity: One health risk posed by air conditioning systems is that they can reduce or elevate a home’s humidity. When humidity is too high, it can propagate mold and bacterial growth. When humidity is too low, on the other hand, it may cause dry skin, dry sinuses and other uncomfortable conditions.
  • Refrigerant exposure: While this is less common, it can occur—and when it does, it poses a substantial health risk. Exposure to air conditioning refrigerant, especially over an extended period of time, can cause burns, respiratory problems and more. That’s why you should always rely on a qualified professional for AC repair in St. Louis, MO.

Since 1999, Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling has been a trusted source of AC services in St. Louis, MO. To learn more about our robust range of heating and cooling services, contact one of our friendly and professional representatives today.