Is musty smell from AC harmful to kids?« Back to Previous Page

The musty smell from your AC unit can indeed be harmful to kids and overall indoor air quality. In the UAE, especially in Dubai, we experience varying climatic conditions which can lead to moisture accumulation within HVAC systems, causing mold growth. Mold thrives in warm, humid environments like those created by poorly maintained or leaky air conditioning units. This can result in a musty smell that you've noticed and could also be contributing to the coughing and irritated eyes of your children.

When AC units aren't properly serviced, they might retain water, which creates an ideal environment for microorganisms such as mold, bacteria, and fungi to flourish. These organisms release spores into the air that can irritate respiratory systems, exacerbating symptoms like coughs, runny noses, itchy eyes, and even more serious conditions in individuals with asthma or allergies.

Given your concerns, i would recommend having a professional inspection of your AC system as soon as possible. This is particularly important given the specific regulations in the UAE that require periodic maintenance checks to ensure compliance with local building codes and standards for indoor air quality. The Abu Dhabi Executive Council Regulation No. 15 of 2013 on Indoor Air Quality in Public Buildings, for instance, sets out guidelines that HVAC systems must adhere to.

In Dubai, the Environmental Health Authority (EHA) also provides guidance on maintaining clean and healthy indoor environments. They recommend regular cleaning and servicing of AC units every six months at minimum, which can help prevent such issues.

For now, you could start by improving ventilation in your home. Opening windows during dry periods or using exhaust fans to remove moisture and improve air circulation might help reduce the growth of mold. Additionally, keeping humidity levels between 30% - 50% is ideal for preventing mold growth. You can use a hygrometer to monitor these levels.

If you notice any visible signs of mold such as discoloration or water damage around your AC unit or in other parts of your home, it’s crucial to address those issues promptly. Mold remediation involves both physical cleaning and sometimes the application of biocides, depending on the extent of contamination.

Remember, if the situation does not improve after making these adjustments or if you're still concerned about potential health impacts on your kids, don't hesitate to contact professionals for an inspection. You can reach out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.

Taking proactive steps will not only help improve the air quality in your home but also reduce potential health risks, ensuring a safer environment for your family.