After studying the effects of air conditioning at home, they recommend doing this before turning it on.

Now that summer is here, with the high temperatures, air conditioning is undoubtedly the best friend you can have to cope with the heat.

But there's something many of us forget, and as the study led by microbiologist Primrose Freestone has discovered, air conditioning maintenance is vital. The study points out that equipment in poor condition can lead to sick building syndrome and other infections. This syndrome is characterized by symptoms such as headache, dizziness, cough, nasal congestion, skin irritations, and fatigue.

A 2023 study in India, with a sample of 400 workers, showed that those who spent six to eight hours a day in air-conditioned offices suffered more allergies, had lower lung capacity, and were absent from work more often than those who worked without air conditioning.

Experts point out that these problems are often caused by malfunctioning or improperly maintained appliances. These devices can release chemical particles, allergens, and microorganisms into the air , which are harmful to health.

Despite these risks, experts say that a properly maintained air conditioning system is not only safe, but can even help reduce the number of pathogens, including viruses like SARS-CoV-2, in the air. Therefore, regular filter cleaning and duct disinfection are essential.

Controlling humidity is equally important. Spending a lot of time in an excessively dry environment, as is common with air conditioning, can dry out the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, diminishing their ability to defend against bacteria and fungi. Therefore, combining thermal comfort with regular technical checkups is essential for maintaining good health.