6 Common Signs Your Air Conditioner Is Making You Sick

The main job of your air conditioning system is to circulate cool air in your home. But the air coming out of your air conditioner may not always be clean. And sometimes, it can even lead to health issues. But how do you know if your air conditioner is what’s making you or your family sick?

1. Allergies Are Acting Up

You may have already suspected your air conditioner as the culprit if you’re suffering from allergies. If so, you’re not imagining it. An air conditioner that’s contaminated with mould or mildew can definitely exacerbate your allergies. But it’s not just mould and mildew that can be harmful. Dust and insect debris is also a problem.

2. You’re Having Trouble Breathing

If you’re wheezing, feeling short of breath, or experiencing lingering nose or throat irritation after using your air conditioner, you may have an air quality problem. Dust, pollen and pet dander, which can easily get blown into the air conditioner and circulated through your home, are common problems that can make breathing difficult.

3. You Have a Constant Cough

If you’re frequently coughing and have a tickle in your throat, it could be allergies, but if you’ve ruled that out, it could be your air conditioner. Bursts of air that come out of air conditioning units and venting systems can easily circulate allergens, but they can also spread germs and particles that are present in the air.

4. You’re Experiencing Eye Irritation

If you’re experiencing burning, itchy eyes, excessive watering, or if your children are waking up with watery, irritated eyes, your air conditioner may be the cause. Dust and pet dander are common culprits when it comes to eye irritation. Dust and pet dander aren’t strictly contained to the air that comes out of your air conditioner. The warm, moist environment in your vents is a great place for dust, mould and mildew to grow, which can ultimately make their way into your eyes.

5. You Have Constant Headaches

If you’ve already ruled out allergies and you’re suffering from frequent headaches, your air conditioning system could be the culprit. This is especially true if you or your family members are experiencing nausea, fatigue or exhaustion.

6. You Have Dry or Flaky Skin

Your air conditioner is making you sick if you’re suffering from dry or flaky skin, particularly if you’ve checked the weather and know it’s not the weather that’s making you dry. This can be a sign of mould and mildew, which are commonly present in the air. Dust, pet dander and other allergens that make their way into your air conditioner can also lead to skin irritation. As it circulates through your home, it can clog your air conditioner and spread to your furniture and clothing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re suffering from any of these symptoms and suspect your air conditioner may be to blame, don’t hesitate to contact an air conditioning professional. A professional can test your air conditioner and determine whether or not it’s contaminated. They can also help to get rid of any mould or mildew or recommend ways you can help to keep your home cleaner, so you don’t experience these issues.

Improve your home’s air quality with the help of Legacy Heating. We specialize in HVAC systems for residential new home construction, providing HVAC maintenance, repair, and installation services in Calgary or Edmonton. We pride ourselves on putting quality and customers first! Get a quote now!