How Your HVAC Impacts Your Sleeping Cycle

We all know someone who can’t sleep unless the room is a certain temperature. But did you know there’s science to back up how your HVAC impacts your sleeping cycle? Using an HVAC unit helps people sleep better on hot summer nights, but it can have a negative impact as well. Fortunately, there are simple things you can do to get the best night’s sleep possible.

Your HVAC Should Maintain an Ideal Temperature

Image via Flickr by donnierayjones

It’s no secret that cold airflow can help you sleep better. Your HVAC unit should maintain a standard temperature in order to ensure a good night’s sleep. Your body’s core temperature falls naturally as you go to sleep. So if the thermostat is too high, you may not be able to fall asleep. The National Sleep Foundation recommends setting your HVAC unit between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit and using blankets if it is too chilly.

Clean Your Air Filter

Experts suggest that homeowners should change the air filter on their HVAC system every two to three months; however, pet owners and those who use their HVAC system constantly should change their air filter every one to two months. A dirty air filter can cause health problems because it becomes a virtual breeding ground for all types of bacteria, black mold, and other fungi. This in turn can lead to mild symptoms, such as dry eyes and runny nose, to more severe problems, such as Legionnaires’ Disease and miscarriage.

Watch the Humidity

Depending on the climate you live in, you may want to invest in a humidifier or dehumidifier because humidity can interfere with quality sleep. If the humidity is too high, it can interfere with your body’s ability to evaporate water, leading to a bad night’s sleep or waking up in a sweat. If the humidity is too low, you may suffer from dry skin or nosebleeds. The proper humidity level is between 30% to 50%.

Why Is This Important?

The quality of our sleep affects all types of health, ranging from immune system function to mental health—sleep deprivation can make you psychotic. Health problems can become expensive, especially if you are uninsured or don’t have sick days from your work.

“Sleep plays a key role in every aspect of our health—everything from heart health, immune system function, weight regulation and mental health,” stated Dr. Sujay Kansagra, director of Duke University’s Pediatric Neurology Sleep Medicine Program and a consultant for Mattress Firm. “When we become sleep deprived, the effects are astonishing and the damage is quick. A lack of sleep often leads to progressive declines in mental function, as well as difficulty concentrating, increased stress, dark under-eye circles and aged skin.”An HVAC maintenance contract can save you money and trouble by keeping your HVAC unit in peak condition. By keeping your unit in peak condition, you can rely on your unit to have a clean air filter and maintain proper temperature and humidity. An efficient HVAC system in turn leads to a good night’s sleep, helps keep you healthy, and can save you money in the long run. Consult your HVAC technician about conducting proper maintenance on your system.