Is musty smell and AC cycling linked to kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rainfall last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in my bedroom, especially when I open the windows. The AC in the living room also seems to be cycling more than usual, even though it’s not particularly hot. My kids have been coughing and sneezing more frequently lately, which has got me worried about indoor air quality. Could this all be related? What can I do to improve the air in my home?
Posted by Ashok Das
Asked on January 27, 2026 5:25 am
0
Absolutely the musty smell and the AC cycling could definitely be linked to your kids' coughs. The symptoms you're observing are quite common during such weather conditions as the one we've had recently. In Dubai, after heavy rainfall events, it's not uncommon for mold to grow in areas that might have been affected or where there's poor ventilation.

The musty smell is a strong indicator of potential mold growth. Mold thrives in damp, humid environments and can produce spores that irritate the respiratory system. This could be what’s causing your kids' coughing and sneezing. The AC cycling more than usual might also indicate it's working harder to maintain a certain temperature due to the excess moisture in the air.

To address this issue, start by inspecting areas of your home where water tends to accumulate, like bathrooms or near leaking pipes. Make sure these areas are well-ventilated and dry out quickly after any spills or leaks. Open windows briefly to allow fresh air circulation if you notice a musty smell but be mindful of outside humidity levels during heavy rainfall.

Using dehumidifiers can help reduce moisture in the air, making your environment more comfortable and potentially limiting mold growth. Regularly checking and cleaning your HVAC system is also crucial as dust and debris can accumulate, leading to poor air quality.

Given the severity of this issue, I would recommend contacting a professional environmental inspection service for an assessment. They can provide you with the necessary tools and expertise to ensure that any potential mold problems are properly identified and addressed before they worsen. For your convenience, you can call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is key in protecting the health of everyone in your home, especially children who might be more sensitive to airborne irritants.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 29, 2026 2:27 am