An expert has revealed the 'life-threatening' reason why you shouldn’t use your fan at night as the summer temperatures rise.
As soon as the hot weather approaches, we all go searching to the back of the cupboards to dig out a cooling fan.
Plugging in an electric fan took keep us cool at night is human nature but one expert has revealed that this could prove to be disastrous.
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According to electric appliance expert Andrai Carcu, you might want to second think using a fan to cool down during the summer nights.
He warned: “Sleeping during the summer can be a struggle, let alone if there is a heatwave, which is why so many of us opt to use a fan at night. Although it might make you feel cooler and help you sleep easier, it is not without its dangers, some of which can be life-threatening.”
Why is using a fan at night dangerous?
One deadly reason is that the fan could catch on fire.
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Carcu said: “A buildup of dust can be a serious problem for your electric fan, as it might accumulate in the fan’s motor. This will lead it to overheat and potentially catch fire.
“However, this is easily avoidable by regularly cleaning your fan, particularly the blades, the vent and the motor if possible to remove any buildup of dust. Before tackling the fan itself, always disconnect the device and adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines in the manual.”
Another factor to consider is that the fan can spread allergens.
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Carcu continued: “Electric fans are supposed to circulate air around the room but dusty fan blades allow dust mites, spores, pollen and other allergens to also disperse in the area.
“Frequent sneezing, watery eyes, a runny nose, itchy throat, or difficulty breathing are all signs that you could be spreading allergens around the room without realising it.”
The dry can also make you feel congested and cause muscle cramps.
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The expert warned that this could “dry out your nose and throat” and this could lead to “uncomfortable sensations like sinus headaches, nasal congestion, drowsiness and fatigue”.
Carcu added that “the cool air is more likely to build up tension and trigger cramping in your muscles. This is why you are more likely to wake up with a stiff neck if you have your fan on all night.
“You can avoid this by simply making sure the fan is not facing you directly, or use an electric rotating fan that will not constantly disperse cool air to your body.”
How can we keep cool without a fan?
So, how can we keep cool without relying on a fan?
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The best thing to do is to close your curtains, according to Carcu, as this will block out the sunlight.
Lighter sheets and pajamas might also do the trick but if you’re finding yourself feel too warm at night, try taking a cool shower or bath before bed.
Carcu said: “Take a cool shower or bath approximately an hour before bedtime which will lower your body’s temperature and help you sleep more easily.
“Drink plenty of cool water throughout the day, especially before going to bed which will help you regulate your body’s temperature.”