by Alexandra Mansilla
The Cooling Breeze Of the Air Conditioner: How To Protect Yourself From It?
18 Jun 2024
The heat is unbearable everywhere, and the only thing that saves us is the apartment, car, office, or any other space where it is: the air conditioner. But the air conditioner is a double-edged sword: it blows cool air and helps us cope with the heat, but it can also easily cause a cold (okay, we have all been there). So, here is a simple guide on how to use air conditioners properly without ending up with a sore throat or runny nose.
Choose the Right Temperature
Don’t lower the temperature below 22 degrees (the optimal temperature is 24 degrees). Even if you want to cool down quickly, avoid setting it below this level. Extremely cold air can shock your system and make you more susceptible to colds.
Use a Protective Screen (Tested And Approved)
A transparent shield (or a deflector) that attaches to the air conditioner and disperses the air. This way, the cold air isn’t blowing directly on you but is spread throughout the room. These screens are especially useful if you can’t adjust the direction of the airflow manually.
Humidifiers Are Essential
Air conditioners dry out the air significantly, reducing indoor humidity. Low humidity can cause dry skin, irritate your eyes, and make your throat feel scratchy. Using a humidifier helps maintain a comfortable humidity level, reducing these issues.
Special Settings At Night
Avoid lowering the temperature at night because your body temperature drops while you sleep. It is better to set it to 25 degrees. And don’t forget to cover yourself with something, even if it is just a sheet. This helps prevent your body from getting too cold.
At night, choose a mode where the air circulates near the ceiling or is directed at a wall opposite to where you are sleeping so the cool air disperses. Never direct the airflow at yourself.
Clean Your Air Conditioner
Not many people know this, but you need to clean your air conditioner regularly. If you don’t, it will start spreading harmful bacteria along with the airflow. Dirty filters can lead to respiratory problems and allergies. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning or hire a professional service periodically.
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