28.03.2024

How not to catch a cold under air conditioning

Some days of June broke temperature records, and we saved ourselves from the heat with the help of air conditioners. But it is precisely because of them that many cough, a runny nose appears, and even the temperature rises. MK-Boulevard learned how to use air conditioning without the risk of getting sick.

Use the air conditioner correctly

Simple rules to help cool off in the heat without the risk of getting sick

Air conditioning in hot weather greatly simplifies life and allows you to relax and unwind in comfortable conditions. But you need to know some rules in order not to catch a cold in the summer.

There should not be much difference between the temperature in the air-conditioned room and the temperature in the street . It is believed that houses should be four degrees cooler than outside the window. But in very hot weather, the difference can be increased to 7-8 degrees.

It is not necessary to include the maximum blowing speed of the air conditioner. This can be done for no more than five minutes to quickly cool the room, and then switch to medium or minimum mode. Further cooling of the apartment or office should take place gradually, by about 2-3 degrees per hour. And it is recommended to set the temperature not lower than +20. Otherwise, there is a risk of hypothermia when the steamed person enters a cool room.

Air from the air conditioner should not be directed to sofas, berths, work and dining tables. A person under a stream of cold air can not only catch a cold, but also get otitis media, sinusitis and even bronchitis.

Due to the air conditioner, the air in the room becomes dry. And as you know, dry air promotes the penetration of pathogens through the mucous membrane. Therefore, air must be humidified. The easiest way is to turn on the humidifier. Otherwise, dermatitis, rhinitis may appear.

If the air conditioner does not have a special function for fresh air intake, then daily ventilation is necessary . Otherwise, the air conditioner will simply “drive” the same air around the room, with all its microorganisms and pollution. If the room is not ventilated, then there will be a risk of developing colds and allergies.

The air conditioner needs to be washed at least twice a year : in the spring, before the season of intensive use, and in the autumn, in order to prepare the device for operation for heating. Experts advise flushing all filters once a month in the summer. The fact is that dust and pollen accumulate on them, which serve as a hotbed for various allergens and infections. You can wash the conditioner yourself using a clean sponge and regular soap.

No need to arrange an artificial draft in the apartment when the air conditioner works with the windows open. If the street has become cooler, it is better to turn off the device. Also, experts do not recommend using the air conditioner at night, especially if the air stream is directed to the head.

Life hack: to make it easier and more comfortable to survive the winter, use a humidifier

Ideally, indoor air humidity should be 30-50% . It is important to stay within this range. It is also not worth exceeding the recommended indicators, high humidity can lead to condensation and, as a result, the growth of harmful bacteria, dust mites and mold.

To measure the level of humidity, you need a hygrometer ( it is not difficult to choose a budget option ). If the humidity is below normal, a humidifier will come to the rescue. There are no universal requirements for it – choose based on your own budget and taste.

In this case, it is important to carefully study the instructions for the humidifier and follow the general rules of operation:

  • use the water specified by the manufacturer in the instructions. For example, tap water is suitable for some humidifiers; for others, only distilled;
  • regularly change the water in the humidifier (before that, it must be thoroughly wiped and allowed to dry);
  • change the filter as often as described in the instructions;
  • thoroughly wipe the reservoir and other parts of the humidifier with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Some manufacturers recommend the use of chlorine bleach and other disinfectants.

Be careful: despite the obvious use of humidifiers, if you do not follow the instructions (namely, do not keep the humidifier clean) and allow a high level of humidity, you can do much harm to yourself. Dirty moisturizers multiply mold and bacteria. In addition, if you have asthma or allergies, consult your doctor before buying a moisturizer.

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