Is AC humidity causing dangerous mold and my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's because of the black mold I just found behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. It's on the wall facing the outside, and we've had the AC on constantly for months. Could the humidity from the unit be causing this, and is it dangerous for my family's health?
Posted by Karen Taylor
Asked on April 5, 2026 10:49 pm
Based on your description, this is a serious situation that requires immediate attention. The black mold you've discovered is likely Stachybotrys chartarum, a toxigenic species that can produce mycotoxins. The constant AC use in Dubai's climate is a primary contributing factor. While the AC itself dehumidifies the air, the issue arises from condensation. The cold air from the unit, particularly if the thermostat is set very low, causes the wall behind the wardrobe (an exterior wall) to become significantly colder than the room's dew point. This leads to persistent condensation on the wall surface, creating the perfect microenvironment of moisture and lack of sunlight for mold to thrive.

Your children's coughing is a significant health indicator. Mold spores and mycotoxins become airborne and are inhaled, leading to respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and exacerbating asthma. Prolonged exposure, especially for children with developing respiratory systems, is hazardous.

This is not a DIY situation. Disturbing the mold during cleaning can aerosolize a massive number of spores, drastically increasing exposure. UAE regulations, particularly from Dubai Municipality, have strict guidelines for mold assessment and remediation to ensure it is handled safely and effectively.

I strongly recommend you cease using that room and arrange for a professional inspection immediately. Our certified team at Saniservice uses thermal imaging cameras to identify the exact extent of the condensation and moisture intrusion, and air/o-surface sampling to identify the species and spore count. We then execute a controlled remediation following industry best practices to ensure the mold is permanently removed and the moisture source is corrected. For the health of your family, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an urgent assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 8, 2026 8:22 am