Is poor air quality making us sick?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in our living room. My kids have been complaining of headaches and it seems like my spouse has had a persistent cough since we moved to this apartment two years ago. The AC filter hasn't been changed for over six months now, and the windows rarely get opened due to high humidity outside. Could this be why everyone’s feeling unwell? What can I do to improve the air quality in our home?
Posted by Jose Brown
Asked on January 9, 2026 1:13 am
0
Is Poor Air Quality Making Us Sick?

Yes, it sounds like the air quality in your home might be affecting everyone's health. The musty smell, headaches, and cough are all symptoms that could be linked to poor indoor air quality (IAQ). In Dubai and UAE, high humidity levels coupled with infrequent ventilation can lead to mold growth, which is a common culprit for respiratory issues and other ailments.

The AC filter not being changed in over six months could definitely be part of the problem. Dirty filters restrict airflow and allow more dust, pollen, and mold spores into your living space. It's crucial to replace or clean them regularly, at least every three months, if not sooner depending on usage.

Moreover, with windows rarely opened due to high humidity outside, you're trapping moisture in your home which can encourage mold growth. In Dubai, maintaining a healthy balance of indoor and outdoor air is key. Consider investing in an air purifier that's suitable for high humidity areas like the UAE. These devices can help filter out allergens and improve overall IAQ.

The musty smell could indicate hidden mold issues. Mold thrives in damp conditions and can release spores that irritate the respiratory system, causing headaches, coughs, and other health problems. A professional indoor air quality inspection might be warranted to pinpoint any hidden mold or other sources of contamination.

In Dubai, it's also important to consider the impact of external factors such as outdoor pollution entering your home through poorly sealed windows or doors. While we have good regulations like the Air Quality Standards set by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), indoor sources can significantly affect our health too.

To improve air quality in your living room, start by addressing these points:
1. Change or clean the AC filter.
2. Increase ventilation by opening windows when outside humidity is lower.
3. Use an appropriate air purifier for high humidity areas.
4. Monitor and manage moisture levels to prevent mold growth.
5. Consider a professional IAQ inspection if symptoms persist.

If you need further assistance, feel free to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for expert guidance and support in improving your indoor environment.

Remember, maintaining good IAQ is not just about feeling better; it's crucial for long-term health.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 13, 2026 9:27 pm