Is it bad to sleep next to an air conditioner?

Author: Prof. Tracey Mueller Jr.  |  Last update: Sunday, January 25, 2026

The cold air produced by the AC can irritate the respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Additionally, AC units can circulate allergens and airborne pollutants if not properly maintained, exacerbating respiratory symptoms for susceptible individuals.

Is it bad to sleep next to the AC?

If any of the dirt, bacteria, dust, and other particulate matter that's hiding in your vents gets into your lungs, it can cause some serious infections and sleep issues. Sleeping with the AC on can also cause some physical issues, including dehydration.

What are the side effects of sleeping in the AC room?

Dry eyes, lethargy, dehydration, dry or itchy skin, headaches, respiratory issues, allergies and asthma, noise pollution, infectious diseases, and indoor pollutants are among the common health concerns associated with prolonged exposure to air conditioning.

Can AC cause breathing problems?

People who live in air-conditioned surroundings report greater rates of respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing and shortness of breath, according to a study published in the Journal of Environmental Health Research. The results of the study were ascribed to greater exposure to pollutants and allergens indoors.

Is AC harmful for health?

Conclusion. While air conditioning systems offer several health benefits, such as improved air quality, comfortable living environments, and better sleep quality, they can also lead to respiratory issues, skin dryness, and air-conditioning disease.

Is it good to sleep with AC on?

How to treat air conditioner lungs?

In more severe cases, avoidance may not be enough. Then, treatment may include corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medication to reduce inflammation and prevent your immune system from reacting to the allergens you inhale.

Is it better to sleep with a fan or air conditioner?

Energy Costs and Environmental Impact: A fan is better if you're on a tight budget or value energy conservation and environmental sustainability. Noise Sensitivity: Go for a fan if you're a light sleeper or noise-sensitive. A fan's soft, consistent whirr is more soothing than an AC's intermittent noises.

How do I know if my AC is making me sick?

The most common air conditioning-related sickness symptoms are minor ones. You may experience sneezing, coughing, or a sore throat from air conditioning. These symptoms usually occur due to hair or dust in the air, not viruses or bacteria.

How long does air conditioner lung last?

Symptoms of air conditioner lung typically appear four to six hours after exposure to the allergen and may last anywhere from 12 hours to a few days. The symptoms of A/C lung are similar to those of COVID-19, so it's probably a good idea to get tested for COVID if you experience any of the symptoms.

What are the symptoms of air conditioner bacteria?

Legionella bacteria can proliferate in air conditioning systems, particularly in cooling towers. Inhalation of contaminated aerosols can lead to Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia. Symptoms include high fever, cough, and muscle aches. In extreme cases, it can be fatal.

Is it okay to sleep with AC on overnight?

According to experts, sleeping with the air conditioning on is bad for you, not because it is harmful but because you can't control the device while you're asleep. When the air conditioning remains on at night, the temperature of the room could fall substantially below the recommended threshold.

Can you sleep on your side after AC?

Sleeping on your side is the best position after a C-section as it takes pressure off your incision site. Use pillows to support your hips and abdomen, and a pillow between your knees can help with spine alignment. Sleeping on your left side is said to help promote optimal blood flow.

How to avoid air conditioner allergy?

In order to prevent air conditioner allergic cough and other symptoms, You should Keep your conditioner clean by regularly replacing the air conditioner's filters, clear the area around the outside AC unit of all dust and debris, Keep the doors and windows closed, and purchase good pre- and secondary filters.

Is sleeping with a fan on bad for you?

But it's important to be aware of possible side effects of sleeping with a fan on. For some, fans can cause congestion, dry eyes or dry skin, or worsen asthma symptoms. You can lessen possible side effects by keeping your home clean, using a humidifier, or setting a timer on the fan.

Can air conditioning cause high blood pressure?

Similarly, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was higher with AC, 69.4 +/- 8.9 mmHg, than without AC, 66.5 +/- 9.1 mmHg, while mean blood pressure was also higher in AC, 84.9 +/- 9.1 mmHg, than without, 79.9 +/- 7.7 mmHg. There was no significant change in pulse rate.

Is it bad to sit in front of an air conditioner?

Dryness: Air conditioners work by removing moisture from the air. This can cause dryness of the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Dry air can also exacerbate certain health conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and sinus problems.

Does sleeping in AC cause breathing problems?

​Exposure to AC will affect respiratory health​

The cold air produced by the AC can irritate the respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

What are the symptoms of air conditioner lungs?

A/Prof Morgan explains that colder air from air conditioning can trigger irritations to either the upper airways (nose/throat) or lower airways. “If these airways are already swollen or inflamed, that will often trigger a sense of chest tightness and cough,” she says.

Can AC fumes make you sick?

Leakage from a damaged air conditioner can harm the environment and release toxic fumes that can make you and your family sick.

Is air conditioning unhealthy?

Unless systems are cleaned regularly, air conditioners can be a source of health issues. Air contamination can become a severe problem that contributes to respiratory ailments in people. Additionally, air conditioning at work and home can lead to problems, such as colds, fevers, headaches and fatigue.

Why do I feel sick after sleeping with the AC on?

Cooler temperatures at night can cause our immune system to slow down. This can make you more susceptible to conditions like common cold or a dry cough. Or else, you might wake up with a sore throat. If the AC unit is not clean, it will circulate germs and other airborne contaminants like dust mites, pet dander, etc.

What is the air conditioning syndrome?

If you work in an air-conditioned building with poor ventilation, it can raise your risk of “sick building syndrome.” Symptoms include headaches, dry cough, dizziness and nausea, trouble concentrating, fatigue, and sensitivity to odors.

Is it OK to sleep in a room with AC?

Yes, it is safe to sleep in a room with air conditioning as long as the AC unit is kept clean and receives regular maintenance. It is recommended to clean the filters and ducts at least twice a year to ensure a healthy sleeping environment.

Is it OK to run AC fan all night?

The fan will constantly blow air into your room if you have the thermostat turned “ON.” If it is on “AUTO,” it will only turn the fan on when heated air needs distribution. So yes, running HVAC continuously throughout the day and night is perfectly safe!

What is the best temperature for sleeping?

The best room temperature for sleep is approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18.3 degrees Celsius). This may vary by a few degrees from person to person, but most doctors recommend keeping the thermostat set between 65 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6 to 20 degrees Celsius) for the most comfortable sleep.

Previous article
Will water stains on granite go away?
Next article
Why is my AC unit turning on but the fan does not spin?