Is humidity causing poor air quality?« Back to Previous Page
|
After the heavy rain we had last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the basement, which connects to our living room. My kids have been complaining of coughs and colds lately, and it feels like their symptoms are getting worse despite regular cleaning. The AC in the basement is on all day due to the humidity, but I’m worried about the air quality affecting everyone’s health. Is there anything I can do to improve the indoor air quality down there?
|
| ▲ ▼ |
Humidity can indeed be a major culprit for poor indoor air quality. In Dubai and the UAE, it's common to experience high humidity levels due to our climate and sometimes even after heavy rainfall as you've experienced. This moisture can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, and other allergens that could affect your family’s health.
Firstly, it is crucial to understand that the current situation might be more than just a smell. The musty odour in the basement could indicate an underlying issue such as hidden water damage or a mold outbreak – which can severely impact air quality. According to UAE standards and regulations, maintaining proper indoor air quality is essential for health and comfort. I recommend you get a professional inspection of your basement and living room areas. These experts will be able to identify the source of moisture and assess if there's any potential for mold growth or other issues that could affect air quality. If needed, they can also provide remediation services to address these problems. Until then, here are some steps you can take: 1. Improve Ventilation: Ensure good airflow by opening windows when possible and using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove excess moisture. 2. Use Dehumidifiers: Portable dehumidifiers can help reduce humidity levels in the basement or any other damp areas of your home. Aim for a relative humidity level below 60% to prevent mold growth. 3. Air Purifiers: Consider installing air purifiers with HEPA filters which can capture allergens, dust, and even some airborne bacteria – providing cleaner indoor air quality. You might also want to check the AC system in your basement; sometimes these units can accumulate moisture that gets released into the air if not serviced regularly. Ensuring it's well-maintained could make a big difference. If you notice any signs of mold growth, such as dark spots or musty odors, it’s important to act swiftly. Mold can produce allergens and irritants and in some cases, toxic substances called mycotoxins. If the situation seems out of control, don’t hesitate to contact a professional service provider for assistance. Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com if you need immediate help with mold inspection and remediation services in your area. Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is key to protecting the health of your family, especially during humid seasons like this. Take care and stay healthy! |
Please log in to post questions/answers:


