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Could your air conditioning unit be making you sick?

There's nothing better than the feeling of air conditioning during the summer heat, but your air conditioning unit might be spreading more than just cool air.

Posted Updated

By
Monica Laliberte
, WRAL executive producer/consumer reporter

There's nothing better than the feeling of air conditioning during the summer heat, but your air conditioning unit might be spreading more than just cool air.

If you notice black spots on your units, that means that mold and dust might also be in the air.

"Without proper care and maintenance, mold can actually grow on the inside, which has the potential to lead to health problems like wheezing, congestion and throat irritation," Consumer Reports Home Editor Paul Hope said.

For large rooms, Consumer Reports recommends a $340 SPT window unit, and a $270 Kenmore unit for mid-size rooms.

To eliminate condensation or rainwater buildup inside the unit that can cause mold, make sure to always tilt window units slightly to the outside during installation.

In order to keep your unit running efficiently and keep the air clean, Hope said it's best to clean the filter once a month and at the start of each season.

Consumer Reports recommends cleaning your central air conditioning return vents and filters monthly, keeping plants and debris away and scheduling a professional check-up once a year.

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