Whether
due to damage or improper maintenance, your HVAC unit can quickly become a health
and safety hazard. Here are a few HVAC-related safety and health issues you and
your family must be aware of.
Carbon
monoxide poisoning
The most common safety concern of an HVAC is carbon
monoxide. Poisoning due to carbon monoxide can be serious, and in some cases
fatal. Since carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, it is impossible to identify
until you or a loved one becomes ill. The first signs are normally similar to
the flu —nausea, headaches, and fatigue — so they are often ignored. However,
long-term exposure can be fatal and human beings with chronic health problems are
specifically at risk.
A damaged heat exchanger is a common cause of carbon
monoxide, particularly in older furnaces. One of the best ways to avoid the
poisoning is to have your unit serviced and inspected by a trained
professional. You must also place a carbon monoxide detector within your house
for safety purpose.
Incorrect
air filtration
Bad air filtration can also be a hazard to the health
of your family. Low indoor air quality -- because of allergens, dust, or airborne
irritants – is a common contributor to respiratory illnesses and problems. People
with underlying respiratory problems such as allergies or asthma are particularly
vulnerable. Several health issues can occur due to poor air quality, ranging
from minor headaches to serious breathing difficulties and allergic reactions. Regular
replacement and preventive maintenance of air filters is important to keep the indoor
air of a home safe.
Improper
humidity moisture control
This has become an important consideration for an HVAC unit.
Lack of humidity during dry climates or the winter months can lead to breathing
problems, dry lips, cracked skin, sore throat and other such health issues. Dry
nasal passages can leave a family prone to respiratory illness and infection,
and can deteriorate flu symptoms. Apart from impacting your family's safety and
health, dry air also has the ability to damage your house. Cracking hardwood
floors, furniture and molding are just a few expensive results of improper
humidity. You can contribute towards your family’s health and to the longevity of
your home by installing a humidifier that regulates the moisture levels inside
the house.
Electrical
problems
Electrical issues can also pose several risks. A very common
problem is a water leakage within the system. It is very common for the
condensation drain of an A/C to become blocked. This can lead to water draining
onto the system's components, leading to equipment failure, and creating the hazard
of electric shock. Therefore, air conditioner restoration is not something an
immature homeowner should take care of. An experienced contractor will be aware
of likely risks, and take the right precautions. Preventive maintenance on a
regular basis is required to avoid electrical risks.
Your
HVAC unit, if not properly monitored and maintained, can make you sick or
further aggravate your health problems. Regular attention to air quality and
professional maintenance are the best ways to avoid many safety and health
risks posed by HVAC systems. However, the information provided is not meant to
substitute for the medical advice and expertise of a healthcare provider. It is
best to discuss any decisions about care and treatment of your medical
condition with a healthcare provider.
