Many people think that keeping doors completely closed while running an air conditioner is the best way to save electricity and keep the room cool. At first, I thought the same. However, after listening to experts, I realized this approach can actually do more harm than good.

Here’s why you shouldn’t keep doors fully closed while using an air conditioner—and what you can do instead to stay comfortable and healthy.

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1. Air pollution and bacteria buildup in a closed room

When a room is completely sealed, dust, dirt, and bacteria from the air conditioner can accumulate inside instead of being vented outside. According to Tipsmake, the indoor air in a fully closed room can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air.

Breathing this contaminated air over time can cause respiratory problems, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Common issues include headaches, fatigue, dry throat, coughing, and even a weakened immune system.

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2. Increased pressure in the room leads to energy waste

Sealing a room completely while running the AC can increase air pressure, which forces the cooled air to escape through cracks in windows, walls, floors, and ceilings. This reduces the efficiency of the air conditioner, meaning it has to work harder and consume more electricity to maintain the desired temperature.

In other words, keeping the door closed doesn’t always save energy—it can sometimes have the opposite effect, making your electricity bill higher.

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3. Feeling uncomfortable and short of breath

When the air conditioner reaches the set temperature, it often pauses its cooling cycle. In a completely sealed room, the air becomes stagnant, making it difficult to breathe. Many people notice stuffiness, fatigue, and discomfort after staying in a closed AC room for a long time.

Prolonged exposure to a room with poor air circulation can also make your skin dry, increase the risk of dehydration, and even disrupt your sleep quality if you stay in the room overnight.

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How to Use Your Air Conditioner Properly

A. Don’t close the door immediately when turning on the AC

• Open the door when you first start the AC, allowing the room to vent for 10–15 minutes.

• This helps remove dust, bacteria, and stale air, preventing them from circulating in the room.

B. Open doors periodically or create small ventilation gaps

• Open the door for a few seconds every 15–30 minutes to allow fresh air exchange.

• Alternatively, leave a small gap or use a ventilation fan to maintain airflow, which ensures even cooling and energy efficiency.

C. Take breaks from the AC

• Avoid staying in a room with air conditioning for more than 3–4 hours continuously.

• Step outside every 2–3 hours to let your body adjust and prevent overexposure to cool air, which can cause discomfort or make you more susceptible to colds and other health issues.

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Additional Tips for Better Air Quality and Comfort

1. Clean your AC regularly: Dust and mold can accumulate in filters, reducing efficiency and air quality.

2. Use an air purifier: It helps remove fine dust particles and bacteria from the air.

3. Maintain moderate temperatures: Setting the AC too cold can stress your body and increase energy consumption. A range of 24–26°C (75–78°F) is generally comfortable.

4. Hydrate: Cool air can dry out your skin and throat, so drink water regularly.

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💡 In summary:
Keeping your room slightly open while using an air conditioner helps maintain clean air, improve cooling efficiency, and reduce energy waste. By ventilating periodically, cleaning your AC, and taking short breaks outside, you can enjoy a comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient environment.