>Air conditioning has become an essential part of life for indoor workers and those who spend their time in air-conditioned spaces. But the indoor climate that’s created by air conditioning isn’t always as healthy as people assume. The use of air conditioning can have negative impacts on human health, including increasing our exposure to indoor air pollution (IAP) and raising our risk of contracting infectious diseases. These risks can be reduced by following some simple guidelines for indoor air quality (IAQ). Here we explain what air conditioning is and why we use it in the first place. We then look at some of the potential health impacts of air conditioning and provide some tips for keeping your indoor climate as healthy as possible.

What is air conditioning?

Air conditioning is a mechanical system that uses energy to lower indoor air temperature and/or increase indoor humidity. This is achieved by cooling or heating outdoor air and circulating it through ducts into the space being conditioned. The indoor climate is controlled by adjusting the flow of cool or hot air into the space, or by adjusting the temperature of the air that’s already inside the space.We often think of air conditioning as an appliance that we turn on and off, but air conditioning systems can vary greatly in size, complexity and cost. Small standalone units are often referred to as mini-split units. Large central systems are generally found in large buildings.

Why do we use air conditioning?

Air conditioning is used to create a more comfortable indoor climate. It does this by reducing the indoor heat load or increasing the indoor humidity. It is a way of maintaining a comfortable indoor climate regardless of the outdoor climate.Air conditioning is used mainly for two reasons: to reduce the effects of high indoor temperatures and to maintain a consistent indoor climate.Indoor temperatures that are too high can be uncomfortable for most people. They can lead to dehydration, headaches and other health problems. But when it’s hot outside, people often don’t notice how warm it is inside their homes. This is because the indoor climate is regulated to a set temperature.Air conditioning is also used to maintain a consistent indoor climate. If the outdoor climate is very dry, the indoor climate may also be very dry. This could lead to skin irritation and other health problems. Air conditioning can be used to create a more consistent indoor climate by balancing indoor humidity.

How does air conditioning affect indoor air quality?

Air conditioning increases indoor humidity and reduces indoor air flow. Both of these factors increase the risk of indoor air pollution (IAP).IAP is the presence of biological, chemical, and/or particulate matter in the air that can be harmful to human health. These substances can come from various sources, including human occupants and the materials used to construct and furnish indoor spaces.Humidity is a major contributor to increased IAP. When indoor humidity is high, there is less air movement and a higher population of microorganisms and dust. This increases the risk of contracting diseases such as influenza, tuberculosis and chickenpox.Humidity also increases the risk of mold growth. Mold can be especially problematic in humid climates. However, mold growth can also occur in dry climates if there are sources of water in the indoor environment.

Health impacts of air conditioning

The use of air conditioning can increase the risk of contracting infectious diseases. This risk is higher for people who don’t have access to clean drinking water and who live in areas with high rates of IAP.Air conditioning also increases the risk of contracting certain allergies, such as allergic rhinitis. Air conditioning may also increase allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to indoor dust mites.Air conditioning can also increase the risk of contracting cardiovascular disease, particularly among those who are exposed to high indoor temperatures.Air conditioning can also reduce the amount of time that people spend outside. This can have negative impacts on physical activity, mental health and social interactions.

Air conditioning tips for improving indoor air quality

The best way to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) is to reduce the amount of time that people spend in artificially cooled or heated spaces. This can be challenging, especially during the summer months when cooling is most commonly used.However, there are a few things that you can do to reduce your exposure to IAP and improve the indoor climate. The first step is to install an HVAC system that is certified for indoor air quality. The second step is to use it correctly. This means keeping the indoor temperature at or below 23 degrees Celsius, and using the system at the lowest possible fan speed.The third step is to use the system correctly for humidity. This means keeping indoor humidity between 30% and 50%.

Conclusion

Air conditioning is a very common and necessary part of modern life. It’s estimated that more than 90% of homes in the United States have a heating or cooling system.Air conditioning increases indoor humidity, which can increase the risk of contracting infectious diseases. It can also increase the risk of contracting allergies, such as allergic rhinitis.Air conditioning can also increase the risk of contracting cardiovascular disease, particularly among those who are exposed to high indoor temperatures.Air conditioning can also reduce the amount of time that people spend outside. This can have negative impacts on physical activity, mental health and social interactions.