Could faulty AC cause kids' symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent heatwave, we've had our air conditioning running almost non-stop. The unit in my bedroom is on the oldest part of the building, near a corner where water tends to collect. My kids have been complaining of coughing and runny noses for the past few days. Is it possible that the AC could be causing these symptoms?
Posted by Huda Kareem
Asked on January 26, 2026 8:52 am
Absolutely, faulty air conditioning units can indeed cause symptoms like coughing and runny noses. In Dubai/UAE, where we often experience extreme temperatures and humidity, maintaining proper indoor air quality is crucial for health. The unit in your bedroom being on the oldest part of the building near a corner where water tends to collect raises concerns about potential issues such as mold growth or poor ventilation.

Mold spores can thrive in damp environments like those found around faulty AC units. These spores, when released into the air and inhaled, can irritate respiratory systems leading to coughing and runny noses, especially among children whose immune systems are still developing. Moreover, poor indoor air circulation from a malfunctioning unit could exacerbate these symptoms.

It's important to note that the UAE has strict building codes and regulations regarding indoor air quality (IAQ). However, old or poorly maintained units can sometimes bypass these standards. For instance, the UAE Building Code requires regular maintenance inspections but does not explicitly prohibit older equipment with certain limitations unless they fail checks for IAQ and safety.

Given your situation, it would be prudent to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a professional inspection. They can assess whether the AC unit is indeed contributing to your children's symptoms by checking for mold growth, proper filtration, and overall air quality in the room. Regular maintenance of HVAC systems is crucial in hot and humid climates like ours.

Additionally, while waiting for inspection results, ensure that you maintain good indoor hygiene practices such as keeping windows slightly open during cooler times (if not too humid) to improve airflow, and regularly clean or replace filters in your AC unit.

Remember, prevention is key. Ensuring a clean and healthy indoor environment can significantly reduce the risk of respiratory issues related to faulty air conditioning systems.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 27, 2026 10:44 pm