⏎ Words Summary from News
**Dirty air conditioners can become breeding grounds for mould, fungi, and bacteria, posing serious health risks.** In Hong Kong, where summer temperatures often exceed 35°C, air conditioners provide essential relief but require regular maintenance to avoid turning into health hazards. Social media influencer Utah Lee recently shared shocking images of grime, dead bugs, and even a live gecko found inside her units after just one year without cleaning.</p><p class="summary-lead">**Every time an unclean air conditioner runs, it blows mould spores and dust directly into living spaces.** Philip Li, president of the Hong Kong Institute of Allergy, warns that these units act as both incubators and distributors for allergens. Jeff Lamb of Breathe-Easy reports encountering extreme cases daily, including a unit with a full bucket of black mould removed.</p><p class="summary-lead">**Health risks from dirty air conditioners extend beyond respiratory issues to include brain fog and mood swings.** Inhaled mould spores trigger inflammatory responses that can cause airway swelling, congestion, and wheezing, particularly in children, older adults, and pets. Additionally, clogged evaporator coils force units to work harder, raising energy bills and increasing the risk of breakdowns during peak summer months.</p><p class="summary-lead">**Professional cleaning is recommended at least once a year, but twice a year is better to prevent significant mould growth.** Between professional visits, homeowners should clean filters monthly—or weekly if they have pets or live in busy areas. Dehumidifying living spaces to 55-60% relative humidity and avoiding harsh chemical cleaners can also help maintain unit efficiency and indoor air quality.</p><p class="summary-lead">**Simple operational habits can further reduce mould and odour buildup.** Turning on fan mode for three to five minutes before switching to cooling mode puts less stress on the compressor. Similarly, running the fan for a few minutes before turning the unit off helps evaporate moisture, preventing mildew growth.
Key Takeaways
- Air conditioners should be professionally cleaned at least once a year, ideally twice, to prevent mould and allergen buildup.
- Dirty units blow mould spores and dust into living spaces, triggering asthma, allergic rhinitis, and even cognitive issues like brain fog.
- Clogged coils increase energy consumption and raise the risk of unit breakdown during hot weather.
- Monthly filter cleaning and maintaining 55-60% humidity are essential DIY steps between professional services.
Insights & Analysis
- As climate change drives more extreme heat, air conditioner maintenance will become a critical public health issue, especially in dense urban environments like Hong Kong.
- The growing influencer culture around home maintenance may drive consumer demand for professional cleaning services, creating a new market niche for eco-friendly and health-focused HVAC care.