Is poor AC affecting my kids' breathing?« Back to Previous Page

Indeed, the quality of your air conditioning (AC) system can significantly impact indoor environmental conditions and potentially affect your family's health. In Dubai, where we experience extreme temperatures during summer, it is crucial to ensure that your AC unit is functioning optimally.

Firstly, let us delve into some specifics about AC systems in the UAE. According to the UAE Building Code and local standards like EN 13779, AC systems must be designed, installed, and maintained appropriately to maintain acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ). A common issue during extreme weather is indeed an overloaded AC unit struggling to keep up with the high temperatures. This can lead to a buildup of moisture and contaminants in the air conditioning ducts, contributing to poor IAQ.

Your concern about your son's breathing issues could be related to several factors. It’s not uncommon for infants and young children to experience respiratory difficulties due to indoor pollutants such as dust mites, mold spores, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These can accumulate in poorly maintained AC systems, especially during periods of high humidity or when the unit is overloaded.

To address this issue, I recommend taking a few practical steps:

1. Professional Inspection: Contact a certified environmental inspection company for a thorough assessment of your AC system and indoor environment. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice provide professional services that include air quality testing, duct cleaning, and HVAC system evaluations. Their expertise can help identify any hidden issues that might be affecting the quality of the air in your home.

2. Duct Cleaning: Regular maintenance is key to ensuring a clean and healthy indoor environment. Ducts should be cleaned every 3-5 years or sooner if they are heavily soiled or have been exposed to water damage. This process involves vacuuming out debris, removing filters for cleaning, and sometimes disinfecting the system.

3. Air Purification: Consider installing an air purifier with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration capabilities. These devices can help remove fine particulates from the air, including allergens that may be exacerbating your son’s breathing issues.

4. Humidity Control: High humidity levels in AC systems can promote mold growth and increase dust mite populations. Ensure your AC unit has a dehumidification feature to maintain an optimal indoor relative humidity of around 30-50%.

5. Regular Maintenance Checks: Schedule regular maintenance checks for your AC system by qualified technicians. This includes cleaning or replacing filters, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring the condenser is free from obstructions.

6. Ventilation: While it’s important to keep windows closed during extreme heat, ensure there is adequate ventilation in rooms without AC systems. Opening windows slightly can help improve air circulation and reduce indoor pollutants.

In conclusion, while your concerns are valid and should not be taken lightly, a professional inspection and maintenance plan tailored for Dubai's climate conditions could provide significant relief. If you continue to experience issues after taking these steps, don’t hesitate to reach out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for further assistance.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for the health of your family, especially during the challenging heat spells in Dubai.