Could high humidity cause these issues?« Back to Previous Page
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After the recent rainstorm that soaked our neighborhood, I noticed a persistent musty smell in the bedroom where we keep all the toys and blankets. The AC in my apartment seems to struggle more than usual too, even though it’s supposed to dehumidify. My kids have been coughing a lot lately and their noses are constantly runny. Could this be related to the high humidity?
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Yes, high humidity can indeed cause the issues you've described. In your case, the persistent musty smell, struggle of AC to dehumidify effectively, and respiratory symptoms among your children are all potential signs of excessive moisture levels.
In Dubai, especially during the cooler months or after heavy rains like those recently experienced, relative humidity often rises above comfortable levels. The UAE's Building Code (UAE-BC) mandates that new buildings must be designed to maintain indoor air quality standards, which include controlling relative humidity between 30% and 60%. However, existing structures may not always meet these requirements due to various factors including weather conditions. The high humidity you're experiencing can foster the growth of mold and mildew. These microorganisms thrive in damp environments, producing allergens and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as coughing and runny nose—especially among children who have more sensitive immune systems. The AC unit's struggle with dehumidification indicates it may not be adequately sized or maintained for the current humidity conditions. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its efficiency. Additionally, if your AC was designed during a drier period or isn't properly sealed against external moisture, it might perform poorly under high-humidity conditions. Given these symptoms and the environmental factors in Dubai, I strongly recommend consulting with a professional environmental inspector who can assess the situation accurately. They will use advanced tools like hygrometers and thermometers to measure humidity levels and look for signs of water damage or mold growth. If necessary, they might also conduct air quality testing. In the meantime, you could take some immediate steps: • Use dehumidifiers if available to reduce indoor moisture. • Ensure proper ventilation in affected areas like your bedroom where toys and blankets are stored. • Regularly clean the AC unit and check for any leaks or water intrusion points. • Consider professional mold remediation services if signs of growth are observed. Remember, addressing high humidity requires a multi-faceted approach. For expert assistance, don't hesitate to contact us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for further guidance and support. |
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