An air conditioner is vital for everyday survival, especially if you live in a hot and humid climate. The units are indeed a lifesaver during summer when the sweltering heat makes both indoor and outdoor living a nightmare. For that reason, it is prudent that you keep your AC unit well maintained for the best performance. However, despite their welcomed relief from the unbearable summer heat, an old air conditioner may not be the best bet when it comes to your family’s health. Here are some health dangers associated with old air conditioners:
1. Dry and Scaly Skin
Are you aware that spending long hours in an air-conditioned environment can result in loss of moisture from your skin? Most people who are frequent users of air-conditioned houses run the risk of suffering from dry and scaly skin over time, especially so if you have an old air conditioner. To prevent such, you’ll need to apply a moisturizer on your skin to prevent dry skin.
2. Illness and Constant Fatigue
Statistics indicate that people who spend prolonged hours in air-conditioned places experience constant fatigue and headaches. The exposure to air from the air conditioning units eventually makes you vulnerable to contracting flu’s, colds, and other illnesses.
3. Difficulties in Breathing
Air conditioners in cars, houses, and offices are major culprits when it comes to circulating microorganisms. A study carried out at Louisiana State Medical Center revealed that eight types of mold were living in 22 out of the 25 cars that were tested. Over time, there is a buildup of bacteria, fungi, and pollen that travels through the airflow of the AC’s intake ducts. Such molds produce bacteria that cause breathing problems.
In addition to that, air conditioning units also circulate airborne infections like Legionnaire’s Disease. The disease leads to pneumonia and high fever.
4. Adds to the Symptoms of Chronic Illness
Old AC units are known to escalate the effects of chronic illnesses that you may be suffering from. For instance, conditions such as neuritis, arthritis, bronchitis, asthma, and high blood pressure are worsened by an old air conditioner. Eventually, persons suffering from such ailments may find it more difficult in managing pain associated with chronic diseases. Furthermore, you can also get a lung infection from the toxins produced by old units.
5. Risk of Fire
Older air conditioning units have outdated power sources and parts. Such parts include older and worn out electrical wiring that can pose a fire hazard. Often, anomalies in your unit’s wiring may go undetected since the wires are typically hidden within the equipment. Catastrophes related to fires may be avoided by conducting regular maintenance or even replacing an older AC unit.
6. Energy Inefficiency
Apart from the health risks that your older AC unit may expose you to, your family also risks spending more on power due to an older unit. One of the main reasons for that is because old and worn out air conditioners do not cool off effectively compared to new ones. As such, they will end up consuming more energy, causing a dent in your pockets at the same time.
The Bottom Line
From the preceding, it is evident that an older air conditioner can pose health risks to your family. Therefore, you may need to consider replacing an older unit with a new one that will keep your family healthy. Airco Services utilizes the best industry standards and will keep your home cool and healthy for decades.
Get a Backup Generator, Not Candles