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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Julia Musto

Signs your air conditioner is making you sick

  • Harmful mould growth in air conditioning units, especially with increased AC use during hotter months, poses health risks.
  • The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled 1.7 million Midea window air conditioners due to potential mould growth, which can cause respiratory issues or infections.
  • Common indoor moulds like Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory problems; black mould can cause eye irritation and worsen asthma.
  • The CDC notes that mould can cause symptoms ranging from cold-like symptoms, a skin rash, or burning eyes to severe reactions like fever and shortness of breath, especially in immune-compromised individuals.
  • Experts recommend regular AC maintenance, proper ventilation, and cleaning to prevent mould growth, and advise wearing protective gear like gloves and masks when removing existing mould.

IN FULL

Your AC can get moldy. Here’s how to protect yourself

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