Of the several advances in climate control that have happened over the years, it’s hard to deny that air conditioning is probably one of the best, especially for the harsh climates Australia can throw at us.
While air conditioning is a fantastic technology and one many take advantage of on long trips (whether for recreational or professional reasons), it is worth noting that certain health factors need to be taken into consideration.
In today’s article, we’re going to list just a few points to be mindful of regarding your health and using air conditioning over long trips.
Recycled air
As you’re likely well aware of, air conditioners usually come with two intake options – incoming air and recycled air. Incoming air constantly sucks in air from the outside, cools it and disperses it throughout your vehicle and/or sleeping cabin. Recycled air takes the air currently inside your vehicle and recycles it over and over. It’s a popular option as recycled air can often achieve cooler temperatures and it removes any unpleasant smells from the outside (e.g. fertiliser, gas fumes, etc.).
However, while this may be beneficial in one manner, the longer recycled air is used, the more carbon dioxide (CO2). Lengthened exposure to CO2 can cause drowsiness and eventually even make you fall asleep or pass out. So you need to remember that with recycled, you should change it to either incoming air or open a window to allow some fresh air back in. Whatever you do, do not keep it on recycled air, especially if you’re starting to feel tired.
Dehydration
In the simplest sense, air conditioning is so effective because it essentially removes the moisture from the air and replaces it with drier, cool air. By eliminating humidity, it’s what allows air conditioners to cool up rooms and vehicles at such a rapid rate. However, by removing moisture from the air, air conditioners also create an issue where that lack of moisture attributes quite significantly to dehydration. If you’ve ever worked in an office that has the AC blasting all day, then you’ve probably experienced the headaches and impaired focus.
The easiest way to account for the dehydration air conditioning causes is to take a good supply of liquids with you, especially those that will assist in hydrating you – so water, Powerade, etc. And, of course, when you can, turn off the aircon just for a reprieve.
Sudden temperature shifts
While it affects people differently, the sudden temperature shifts from hot to cold (and vice versa) with air conditioning can impact on your health. In particular, if you suffer from respiratory problems, sudden and significant shifts in the temperature around you can trigger breathing problems.
Even if you don’t suffer from any respiratory issues, you can still fall ill from being exposed to temperature changes too often. As your body is constantly trying to adapt to each new temperature range, it becomes a taxing experience and may weaken your overall physical wellness. When using air conditioning, ideally try to keep the temperature somewhere between the 21 – 25 degree celsius range as this will usually ensure the shock of changing from one temperature to another isn’t as severe.
Got any other tips regarding long distance travel and air conditioning? Share them with us in the comments below.
