Is AC mold causing my kids' coughing and watery eyes?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the black powdery mold in your AC unit is very likely contributing to your children's persistent coughing and watery eyes. This is a common issue in Dubai's older buildings, where high humidity and year-round AC use create constant condensation inside units—an ideal environment for mold growth. The spores are then blown directly into your living space.

For immediate relief, turn off the AC unit in question and open windows to ventilate the room, if outdoor air quality permits. Do not attempt to clean the extensive mold yourself, as disturbing it will release a large cloud of spores. The first professional step is a thorough inspection and testing. A certified mold inspector can take air and surface samples to identify the specific species, which determines the health risk and necessary remediation steps. In Dubai, look for providers who follow DM and DHA guidelines and can provide verifiable, lab-certified results.

Until the unit is professionally cleaned and tested, consider using portable HEPA air purifiers in the children's bedrooms to reduce their exposure to airborne spores circulating from other rooms.