With studies showing that air conditioners can spread the terrifying coronavirus, many people are asking many questions such as, is it safe to use the air conditioner during the corona pandemic?
The fact is that the air conditioning systems can’t filter out small droplets so the droplets can easily re-circulate back to indoor spaces. This can be a problem in a public area, but when it comes to your house, you have nothing to worry about unless you have a family member suffering from the condition.
Which is safer: window units or central air conditioners?
According to AC repair services providers, window units provide air for one indoor space. Hence, they have minimal chances of causing cross-contamination, so they are much safer to use during the pandemic.
If you live alone, you can run any type of air conditioner as long as you aren’t inviting any people into the house. If you live in an apartment using a central air conditioner, speak to your landlord about the type of system you have.
Dedicated air systems heat and cool the house using air from outside the building instead of re-circulating it, so they are less likely to transmit coronavirus.
If the construction of the house allows it, go ahead and turn off the air conditioner and live without it.
If the temperature keeps on going up, open the window at night to allow cool air in. You can also use a ceiling fan.
Should you clean the air filters to prevent the spread of coronavirus?
You might have the impression that by keeping the air filters clean, you play a vital role in preventing the spread of the virus, but this isn’t the case.
Remember that the air filters might be harboring the virus, so you are better off waiting until the COVID-19 is over. An older filter might even be more efficient at filtering the virus, so you should keep it.
The only downside is that you will be getting less air, and your appliance will consume more energy.
Can you opt for desert coolers?
Experts advise homeowners to use desert coolers as the air filters can serve as a barrier between the dust particles. While this is the case, the room should have a vent to let the natural air circulate.
Other valuable air conditioner tips
Other than waiting to clean the air conditioner filters until the pandemic is over, there are plenty of other tips you need to consider during the tough times. These tips include:
Set the right temperature: The best temperature setting for your room is 24 and 30 degrees Celsius and a humidity of 40-70%. This temperature is recommended as it’s the most ideal for humans and decreases the chances of pathogens surviving.
If you live in humid climates, set a temperature closer to 24 degrees Celsius for de-humidification, and if you live in dry climates, set your appliance to 30 degrees Celsius. Fans are vital during this time, so use them to increase the air movement.
If you live in a dry climate, don’t allow the relative humidity to fall below 40%. You can easily do this by having a pan with water in the room.
When operating the fans, keep the windows partly open. Do you have an exhaust fan nearby? Keep it running for better ventilation.
Do you have a toilet and kitchen exhaust fans in your home? Keep them in operating mode at all times.
Inspect the appliance: While you don’t have to replace the air filters, you should inspect them regularly to ensure they are performing optimally. Inspecting them also gives you peace of mind that the air conditioner won’t stop in the middle of a hot day.
Strive to inspect the appliance by yourself to avoid having people coming to your home, but if you have to hire an air conditioner repair services McLean provider, ensure that the contractor has been recently tested for coronavirus.
You also should ensure they wear protective masks, gloves, and glasses. Once they are done, they should disinfect the areas they come into contact with.
Parting shot
You are safe using the air conditioner in your home, but you should be cautious when visiting public places such as restaurants as you can easily get infected. As the eateries begin opening their doors, don’t rush there. Stay home and be safe.
